| Each season Hertford
Choral Society devotes a day to an Open Workshop. This is usually
in the Spring term and is focused on the major works that the
choir is rehearsing at that time. However, the opportunity is
often given for members to work in small groups on activities
that relate to the technical and/or dramatic aspects of the
music being studied. When working on Mendelssohn’s Elijah,
for example, there were some very imaginative interpretations
of some of the scenes from the oratorio!
Having more time at a Workshop also opens up the opportunity
to think about the process of singing and a number of distinguished
vocal coaches have come to work with the singers. In order to
extend the singers’ understanding of the major works in
rehearsal, it is the usual practice to invite an expert to give
a 45-minute talk about the music, composer(s) and relevant influences.
These are generally acknowledged to be both entertaining and
very informative. Recent speakers include Andrew Green and Anthony
Burton both of whom are well-known for their contributions to
musical journalism in print and on Radio.
Workshops are open to anyone who wishes to come (including those
who just want to come for the talk), but they have to accept
the focus on the works in hand. By contrast, Singing Days are
general and require no prior knowledge. At one such day, there
were several different options on offer: a practical introduction
to Medieval music, singing the Cathedral Repertoire (for which
an organ was made available), Music Theatre, and practical experience
of (very) contemporary vocal techniques and styles. Singing
Days are not always included in every season.
A Workshop in preparation for the St John
Passion (Bach) programme will be held on Saturday 27th February
2010 at Richard Hale School, Hertford. This will include sessions
on performing the music (technique, accuracy), a talk by a specialist
on the music/composer/period and other varied sessions.
There is a charge of £5 for attending a workshop day.
Please contact our Membership Secretary, Maureen
Freeman, in advance for further details AND if you would
like to attend.
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