Use your voice

We welcomed back some old trillers as we as new ones which really added to the sound and atmosphere

Richard, who had previously sung with us in our concerts, was in a new position in front of us leading the way in Eamonn’s absence.

We had an interesting warm up and he really challenged us with the days of the week!

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Friday, Thursday, Wednesday, Tuesday, Monday,

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Saturday, Friday, Thursday, Wednesday, Tuesday

Wednesday, Thursday …….etc

Chest or head . No not talking about a cold. Richard also explained the difference between our chest voice and head voice, which was put into practice during the rehearsal with great effect.

Chest voice is the fuller, stronger sound you use when speaking, often felt lower in the chest or throat, while head voice is lighter and more floaty, with vibrations felt higher in the mouth or head—and you are probably already using both without realising it. Transitioning between them is about blending, not switching: as notes go higher, effort and volume decrease, chest voice gradually thins, and head voice gently joins in so the change feels like a smooth slide. A helpful exercise is to start low on “oo” or “ng,” slide up slowly like a siren, then slide back down, focusing on no pushing, no volume jumps, and a smooth glide even if the tone changes; if it cracks, that’s good because you’re learning coordination. Another effective bridge exercise is using “gee” or “nay” in a slightly bratty, playful tone by singing “gee-gee-gee-gee” up a scale, keeping it light and stopping before any strain.

The first song we tackled was Irish Blessing which has been passed down through generations. It is a traditional way of wishing someone good luck and fortune on their life's journey. This blessing carries a simple yet powerful message that has resonated with people worldwide.

The origin of the Irish Blessing is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have its roots in Ireland. The Irish are known for their love of language and poetry, and this blessing is a perfect example of that. It is a beautiful and meaningful way to express good wishes to someone.

Originally written in the Irish language, the prayer, the author of which is unknown, features three main images: wind, sun, and rain. Fittingly for something written so long ago, the ancient Irish’s deep connection to nature and Ireland’s ever-changing elements shine through.

The reference to the wind is thought to be a reference to the Holy Spirit, who came as a “mighty wind” at Pentecost.

The sun’s warmth alludes to God’s mercy, which the New Testament (Luke 1:78, NIV) tells us, “by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven.”

The mention of rain is thought to be symbolic of God’s provision – nothing will grow without rain.

In Irish, the first line “Go n-éirí an bóthar leat” more literally usually translates as “May you succeed on the road,” the French equivalent of which is “bon voyage.”

The Sops start this song singing the first verse and when reaching the high note in ‘until we meet again’ ensure you keep the top half of your face lively as if you are smiling, but keep your mouth from a wide grin!

‘hand’ is a very long note in ‘ever in the palm of his hand’.  Also ensure you put a soft sounding ‘d’ on ‘hand’ and not a hard ‘t’ sound.

When the Tenors and Basses join in, watch out for the specs in the music score, so you are ready for the double word ‘your’ in ‘…soft upon your, your fields’

Keep all the low notes gentle and don’t boom them out loudly.

Altos, with your low notes, use your chest voice which was explained in our warm up. 

Everything we are taught is useful, so pay attention!

Next was Make Your Own Kind of Music.  Another song from our back catalogue, but new to some. 

It is a song by American singer Cass Elliot released in September 1969 by Dunhill Records. It was written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, with production by Steve Barri. Largely viewed as a commercial disappointment despite strong airplay on U.S. Top 40 radio stations in November 1969, the song found new life in the 2000s thanks to its use in TV shows such as "Lost" and feature film "Free Guy." Another film featuring actor Ryan Reynolds, Deadpool & Wolverine, featured Paloma Faith's remake of Cass Elliot's single in an official promotional trailer.

It became a top 30 hit in the United Kingdom in 2018 via a cover version by Paloma Faith. It was announced on 1 February 2018 that Škoda Auto had commissioned Faith to record a version of Make Your Own Kind of Music to serve as jingle for an ad campaign to launch the Karoq, Škoda's new compact crossover SUV. Paloma Faith said: "The reality of Škoda is it was the car people took the piss out of you for having...That's how they enticed me in really, it was like that thing or person who people tease for being who they are but is now celebrated for being who they are."

Paloma Faith subsequently introduced Make Your Own Kind of Music in concert, with the statement that she "doesn't usually approve of celebrity endorsements for products, but felt that Škoda was a brand worth celebrating due to how it's gradually become more respected over the years."

When singing this, make use of the rests and make a definite break to give it a legato sound rather than just a smooth, boring one.

This song needs building up, so ensure you have enough energy to keep building to the big crescendo with the last chorus before the contrast of the last lines.

As we had all sung Crossing the Bar last week, we were able to impress Richard with our rendition.

Some Altos, Tenors and Basses went off piste and sang their own notes, which did harmonise beautifully, but be warned, Eamonn will pick you up on this, so it might be best to learn the written notes!

He went through all the individual parts telling the Altos to use their head voice for this song rather than their chest voice.

The Lady Tenors sing in their voice range whereas the Male Tenors sing at their high range, so harder for them.

Don’t overthink the timing of ‘no sadness of farewell’ just watch the director and you will be fine.

See you all next week.  Please remember to wear your name badges.  Keep them with your music folder and you won’t forget to bring them!.