About the program

Join City of Belmont and Perth Symphony Orchestra for a five-week choir program.

Whether you're a seasoned singer or just starting out, this program is open to everyone aged 16+ years.

In the program you will:

Learn from an internationally renowned Chorus Master.
Receive expert guidance and instruction from renowned Soprano, Penny Shaw.
Join a community of singers and musicians in celebrating the spirit of Christmas.
Have the opportunity to rehearse and perform with Perth Symphony Orchestra at the City of Belmont's Let's Celebrate Christmas event.

Don't miss this chance to be part of something truly special. Register now and embark on a festive musical journey with the Perth Symphony Singers.

By booking a ticket to this series you commit to attending weekly Tuesday classes from 5 November to 3 December, 6:30pm to 8pm.

Workshop breakdown

Workshop 1: Introduction and Vocal Foundations | Tuesday 5 November

Welcome and introductions: Meet the Chorus Master and fellow singers.
Vocal warm-ups: Basic warm-ups to loosen the vocal cords and prepare for singing.
Introduction to harmony: A simple explanation of harmony and its role in choral singing.
Learn the first song: Begin learning the first 3-part harmony song (soprano, alto, bass), focusing on the melody and basic harmonies.
Learn the second song: Start learning the second 3-part harmony song, focusing on the melody and basic harmonies.

Workshop 2: Harmony Development and Aural Skills | Tuesday 12 November

Vocal warm-ups: Continue practicing vocal warm-ups.
Harmony development: Explore the different harmony parts (soprano, alto, bass) and their roles in both songs.
Aural training exercises: Simple exercises to develop listening skills and recognize intervals in both songs.
Rehearsal of both songs: Continue working on both songs, focusing on blending and balance.

Workshop 3: Blending and Dynamics | Tuesday 19 November

Vocal warm-ups: Incorporate more advanced warm-ups to improve vocal range and flexibility.
Blending exercises: Practice techniques to blend voices and create a unified sound in both songs.
Dynamic range: Explore different dynamic levels (soft, loud, crescendo, decrescendo) and their impact on both songs.
Rehearsal of both songs: Focus on blending, dynamics, and overall interpretation in both songs.

Workshop 4: Performance Preparation | Tuesday 26 November

Vocal warm-ups: Review and expand on previous warm-ups.
Performance preparation: Discuss performance techniques, stage presence, and audience engagement.
Rehearsal of both songs: Practice both songs together, focusing on balance, dynamics, and overall performance.

Workshop 5: Final Rehearsal and Performance | Tuesday 3 December

Vocal warm-ups: Final warm-ups to prepare for the performance.
Final rehearsal: Run through both songs with attention to detail and performance quality.

Performance: Let’s Celebrate Christmas with Perth Symphony Orchestra and Christmas Markets | Saturday 7 December

Sing timeless holiday classics with Perth Symphony Orchestra at the City of Belmont’s Let’s Celebrate Christmas event.
Note: performing at this event is not mandatory.

Additional Considerations

Backing tracks and recordings of the workshops will be provided to participants. Please bring a water bottle to rehearsals.

If you have any questions about this event or need assistance booking, please contact the City's Arts & Place team on 9477 7248 or via email at artsandplace@belmont.wa.gov.au.

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