The Warm-Up Series
Warm-ups are an integral part of every choirs' routines and rehearsals, which is why we have created The Warm-Up Series in partnership with composer
Our warm-ups are focused on different areas that choirs may need to focus on. Keep reading for more information.
The Focus
Diction
Phrasing
Storytelling
What the research says
Diction
Diction goes beyond just being able to understand what the choir is singing; it provides meaning to the text and helps to engage the audience as well as the performers. Good diction is practically really important too, with uniformity on where consonants should be placed in pieces providing clarity and enhancing the musical expression.
Research link: Fine PA and Ginsborg J (2014) Making myself understood: perceived factors affecting the intelligibility of sung text. Frontiers in Psychology
Phrasing
Phrasing not only helps with breath control but also with musical expression and understanding how the music is organised and where the meaning is.
In 2013 and investigation into the effects of phrasing on the brain was conducted. Researchers found that expressive timing helped listeners identify and process phrase boundaries. Meaning, when choirs shape the musical ideas, audiences can understand the music better.
Research link: Istók E, Friberg A, Huotilainen M, Tervaniemi M. Expressive timing facilitates the neural processing of phrase boundaries in music: evidence from event-related potentials. PLoS One. 2013
Storytelling
Communication is a key area for all choirs to master so performers and audiences can connect with the music. Storytelling does just that and is proven to engage the listener more so than a lack of storytelling techniques. The journey of the music and text is imperative for this by using expression, articulation and facial exprecan dramatically change the meaning of the piece depending on how the performers tell the story.
Research link: Margulis EH, Williams J, Simchy-Gross R, McAuley JD. When did that happen? The dynamic unfolding of perceived musical narrative. Cognition. 2022
"Alongside improving vocal flexibility and helping to prevent straining or other injury, warm ups before singing are vital for getting everyone focused and in the same space – breathing together, working together, singing together. I really enjoy fun warm ups which encourage laughter and help to relieve any tension in the room, setting the tone for the rest of the rehearsal."
- Esther Bersweden