I noticed that I write a lot about my lessons here. I really find them fascinating or day-defining for some reasons. Here is a new one before I hit the sack!
We've been practicing for our recital this early summer and, so far, it's been quite exhausting but a lot of fun, nonetheless. Each of the students get to sing 3 songs: 2 ensembles for the start and end, and a solo piece. We are a lot this summer (or so my teacher said) that's why we only have one solo each. I couldn't complain. I would have died everyday if it were more than one. Haha! Anyway, I got Send In the Clowns. It's in the key of E (higher than in the play). It plays around my comfortable range but I do stumble once in a while.
I had perpetual problems on the bridge part. My voice obviously shifts from chest to head in that area so my teacher, after making me try a lot (like, for real, A LOT) of different approaches, suggested I do it in my high chest voice. With an open throat and enough air support, I was able to do a B above middle C. I wanted to do a happy dance right there but I reserved it for the house. I was all over the place during the first group rehearsal but I think it's safe to say that I was able to redeem myself in the second one. My throat closed once but it's nothing compared to my voice breaking two weeks ago. I really felt that I did well. I rarely do so that's a good thing.
This week's task is more challenging that I thought. We tackled interpretation. I had no problems making the story my own but it's a different ball game when someone else listens to me! I was told that I only get to send a bit of the message across. Though I have to agree because I focus on the notes and techniques far more than I should, it's such a big deal to not be able to communicate with the audience. I also thought that muscle memory kicks in everytime so I sound a little "mechanical". That or I am putting my walls up again because it took me a long while to get over my story and here I am wanting to relieve those moments again like it was never a big deal.
Well, that is what I did today (March 16/17--- I feel like Magellan in the international date line haha). I tried relieving it all. Yes, copious amount of tears was shed late this evening and I even thought of calling it a night already. However, I was determined that the emotion will help me. My nose got clogged at first but it wasn't much of a problem. I noticed that I sang easier today. No tension whatsoever. I do not know why exactly. Perhaps the vocal rest, the crying, the story, etc. I went through my usual routine then did some self-assessment.
My main problem a while ago was support. I found my voice shaky at some parts so I tried on always remembering to breathe. I cannot really tell if I got my message across this time. My head still has the message so I might confuse it. I will give it a day or two before listening again. But I think it needs more movement and flow.
I am slowly getting the smooth stretch shift from chest to head voice. I think I got the resonator already. All I have to do is let it all out without hesitation.
I cannot wait for Tuesday. Thank God I am improving! :)
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