Finding our Orpheus within – for experienced singers with Michael Fields and Evelyn Tubb

Music

Ref: S4D31814

Location: West Dean
£589
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About this course

A course for performers – professional or experienced amateur – yearning to sing in an authentic and personal way. We will explore technique, interpretation, performing philosophy and confidence, with accompaniment by piano, lute or guitar.

Course Description

Orpheus – the legendary musician, poet, healer and prophet who could charm all things with his music – is an archetype of the inspired singer and an inspiration to all musical performers. He reminds us that music is a powerful force that can still touch our hearts, even in these materialistic times.

Orpheus is alive and well – we just have to invoke him through our musical performances. On this course, we will invite him to emerge from each of us by refining our art – physically, psychologically, emotionally and spiritually.

In daily masterclasses and informal performances on the four evenings we will explore vocal technique, memory, stage presence and performing contexts, psychologies and philosophies, as appropriate. An afternoon student concert will bring the course to an end.

Evelyn Tubb will work in a masterclass setting with Clive Pollard, our exceptional pianist, as accompanist, while lutenist-guitarist Michael Fields will offer one-to-one coaching to those interested in repertoire suited to his instruments. These classes are not mutually exclusive – students may freely move between sessions with Evelyn-Clive and/or Michael.

This course is aimed at experienced singers who yearn to improve their performing skills, though students of a wide range of training, attainment and interests are very welcome. The essential pre-requisite is a commitment to presenting a selection of songs learned by heart which are ready to be taken to the next level. Our work is as much about personal exploration and discovery as it is about seeking goals. As such, it could be a safe and inspiring space for established professionals to explore new directions in their work.

Repertoire can be drawn from almost any genre: folk song, lute song, art song, music theatre, oratorio and opera are all welcome – but our aim is to create successful and effective performances suitable to a recital setting, rather than the opera house

If you are not known to the tutors, when applying please include information on your singing/playing experience, previous courses you have attended and your voice type. Acceptance on the course is at the discretion of the tutors and you may be asked to provide a recording of their singing.

Timetable

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

Course Materials

What students need to bring

  • Please prepare and bring 3 - 7 contrasting pieces of your own choice
  • It is essential to communicate your choice of repertoire to the tutors in advance, by emailing: [email protected], at least three weeks prior to the course
  • Please bring a copy of your selected songs for the accompanist
  • A portable recording device may be useful

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing for the workshop or studio, this includes covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Tutors

Michael Fields accompanist on lute and guitar

Michael Fields

Michael Fields is a highly regarded accompanist on lute and guitar who has enjoyed working with singers - amateur and professional, famous and unknown - for over 40 years.

Evelyn Tubb

Evelyn Tubb, course tutor, works as a singing professor at the Schola Cantorum in Basel. She performed for many years with The Consort of Musicke and is known for her innovative style.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

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