Beyond the Major Scale: Engaging The Ear And Voice In Vocal Exercises
Tuesday 13th October 2020, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
About this two hour Webinar:
Vocal exercises are used by singers and singing teachers alike to help develop, refine and establish various aspects of vocal technique. But vocal exercises can also be harnessed to develop a singer’s musicianship alongside technique. Just as a train track has two rails to stay balanced, it is proposed by the presenter that a “two-track” approach to a singer’s development would be an equal emphasis on technique and musicianship throughout training, as opposed to the more “monorail” emphasis on technique alone. As the eminent classical pedagogue, Richard Miller, sagely said: “Be first a musician and second a singer”. But how can this be readily achieved within a lesson context?
Currently, there is an over-emphasis and over-reliance on major scale-based patterns in vocal exercises at the expense of the appetising array of other musical patterns found in vocal music. From listening to and analysing a range of pop song excerpts, this interactive workshop will introduce vocal melodies based on other scales and modes, some of which are more commonly used than the major scale. The presenter will then show how relevant, engaging vocal exercises can be created from these patterns. They are not only still technically demanding but also provide musical variety and ear challenge to vocal exercise repertoire. This concept can be applied to any style of singing and doubles the educational value of exercises.
All sessions are recorded and will be sent out to all registered participants.
Kim Chandler
Kim Chandler (MMus BMusEd) is a renowned contemporary vocal coach & session singer. She runs a busy private studio in Marbella, Spain, where she coaches an elite clientele of stadium band singers, including BRIT award winners & GRAMMY nominees, artists from a range of genres, professional singers and vocal coaches online.
Sorry, this is an archived short course...
We have plenty of upcoming short courses coming soon. See details of some of them below or look at the full list of short courses.
Tuesday 23rd June 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Introduction to Vocal Psychotherapy: Songs of the Self
Dr. Diane Austin
This presentation draws on the methods and techniques of Vocal Psychotherapy, a new in-depth model of music psychotherapy developed by Dr. Austin, that incorporates breath work, natural sounds, vocal improvisation, and songs and dialogue within a client and therapist relationship to facilitate intrapsychic and interpersonal change and growth.
Thursday 2nd July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Unclenching the Jaw: Options from the Physio Lens
Walt Fritz
“Jaw tension” is one of many potential problems facing the singer, and can cause a direct negative impact on the performance in both direct and indirect ways. The underlying cause of jaw issues is attributed to numerous factors (technique, posture, strength, range of motion, etc.), making it often difficult to identify common denominators. Join Walt Fritz as he examines the evidence supporting stretching, strengthening, and manual therapy interventions to address jaw-related concerns in vocal performers, taking into account their unique needs.
Monday 6th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 10th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Monday 13th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 17th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Monday 20th July 2026
7:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 24th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Certificate in Foundations of Vocology with Adam Roberts
Adam Roberts
This 30-hour Vocology Cohort Intensive provides a comprehensive overview of basic vocal anatomy, physiology, and theories of voice production & perception, fundamentals of vocal health, pathology, evaluation, performance, and habilitation of the speaking and singing voice, and a survey of research, resources, and professional opportunities. Each week, advanced students contribute to cohort-centred learning with additional resources, discussion facilitation, and critical analysis. The course assessment will also be useful for those who wish to prepare for the PAVA recognised designation.