Oh my, what a show PDQ Bach was! Complete with a potato launcher, cotton balls, and feathers. Yes, if you have no idea what we’re talking about, you definitely had to be there. But never fear, we’ll have pictures. And with luck, some video too!
And no, there is no such thing as a quiet summer for us. We’re already on to the next thing. Coming up this summer, we’ll have vocal workshops again – on Saturday June 28 and Saturday August 23. This summer’s workshops will be led by VCS’ Artistic Director Jennifer Rodgers and our accompanist Greg Graf.
Tickets are now on sale, and Masterclass tickets are limited.
If you’ve already come to our workshops in summers past, you know what a great experience they can be. If not, here’s what you need to know.
WHAT ARE THEY?
VCS vocal workshops are a day-long immersive experience (9 am to 4 pm) designed to help singers:
- Improve vocal technique
- Enhance sight-singing skills
- Strengthen musicianship
A full day of workshop options in vocal production, rhythm and notation, and music theory will be offered, along with Masterclasses that give hands-on coaching application for singers and listeners. All who register attend the Masterclass. Those who pay for a Masterclass will have a dedicated coaching session with the instructors, and perform in front of the whole workshop.
Masterclass attendees are strongly encouraged to come with a prepared piece of music.
What exactly happens in a Masterclass, you ask? To quote our director, Jennifer Rodgers:
Now, I’m realizing that many folks don’t know what a masterclass is and how it works. First off – YOU don’t have to be the master. That’s supposed to be me…I get to be called a master teacher!
The singers who perform should bring a piece to sing, ideally with accompaniment unless you plan on singing without. This doesn’t have to be a big, new challenge…something to put out in front of an audience and let us see you on the spot. We’re really nice and we don’t bite. It’s okay if you’re a mess and it’s okay if you’re a chanteuse!
WHAT IS THE WORKSHOP SCHEDULE?
9:00 – 9:30 am | Arrival and Registration |
9:30 – 9:45 am | Welcome, Introductions, Overview |
9:45 – 11:15 am | SESSION 1 – Vocal Production Keynote (with Jennifer Rodgers Beach and Greg Graf) |
11:15 – 11:30 am | Coffee Break |
11:30 am to 12:30 pm | MASTERCLASS 1 |
12:30 – 1:15 pm | Lunch |
1:15 – 2:45 pm | SESSION 2a – Music Theory Basics and Sightreading SESSION 2b – Advanced Music Theory (Sessions run concurrently) |
2:45 – 3:00 pm | Coffee Break |
3:00 – 4:00 | MASTERCLASS 2 |
Masterclass ticket (limited to 8 ) $135
General ticket $85
General Half-Day $42.50 (come either in the morning or the afternoon)
Lunch is available for $12
(NOTE: Additional processing fees apply for online ticketing.)
WHY TAKE A VCS SUMMER WORKSHOP?
Because at VCS we believe that singing isn’t just for “Singers.” It’s for everyone who wants to be better at what they do, whether it’s music or anything else.
When you sing with us you learn to breathe, project, be with a group, take the stage on your own, pivot when the music isn’t going according to plan, connect and communicate with the audience, and find your voice.
Singing is full of life lessons. If you’re a professional, get better at your craft. If you’re not a professional, get better at being you.
All voices and skill levels welcome.
Vienna Choral Society
Hi Patrick,
Sorry for the late reply! We will be holding the workshops at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 2589 Chain Bridge Road, Vienna, VA 22181.
If you have more or specific questions, please drop us a line at info@viennachoralsociety.org.
Thank you!
Patrick Castellucci
I am very interested. Where will these events be held?