Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Add Some Sparkle :)


            Expression is the sparkle to a performance.  Expression is what tells the story of a song.  A lot of you reading this may think expression while singing is easy, but it’s not!  You have to do it certain ways and make sure it isn’t getting in the way with technique.
            The way one must show emotion is through one’s eyes and voice.  NOT HEAD.  The first time I tried to put expression into a song it did not go well.  The first thing I did was use hand motions and movements with my head.  This got in the way of staying centered.  Putting dynamics into your voice is a great way to show emotion.  Also, movements with your eyes, at times or purpose, is great.
            Doing these appropriate expressions takes practice.  A fabulous way to practice expression is to watch your self in a mirror.  Sometimes what you feel like you’re doing isn’t actually what you’re doing.  Watching your self in a mirror will allow you to see exactly what you need to do more of, or what you should minimize.
            For one to be able to stay in character, one must know what the song is about.  Doing research on your song will allow you to go more in depth with the story you’re trying to tell, or the character you are trying to be.  Also, one must stay in character THE WHOLE SONG!  This includes the piano introduction, piano parts in the middle, and waiting until the piano is done at the end.  Students tend to leave their character when they’re not actually singing.  This is something a lot of people should work on!
             If you want to go to the next level while performing, expression is definitely the way to go :)


This video is of Diana Damrau as Queen of the Night.  She is an AMAZING opera singer and shows unbelievable expression.

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