Fun Friday - Military Wives Flash Mob

If you are a regular reader, you know we have mentioned and featured the Military Wives Choirs a number of times.  These ladies are from all over Scotland.  They are supporting their military members with this wonderful "What Have you Done Today to Make you Feel Proud?" song and to bring attention to their poppy campaign.  It isn't an easy song to sing as a choir but in that venue even trickier but they do it. 

Tonal Tuesday - The Way We Were (Are?)

This quotation is from a post from Choral Net by Scott Dorsey.  Choral Net is a wonderful resource for choirs and leaders alike.  I have learned much from being able to share with directors from all over the world.  My how times have changed.  When I was teaching school, it was an effort to talk to the teacher in the next school never mind one in France.  Oh I LOVE technology.  But as much as times have sped up, we often use music written many years ago so this is an interesting idea.

"While watching a classic old black & white move recently, one was struck by the incredible changes that have taken place in the role gender plays in society.  In his article, “Church Musicians and Inclusive Language: A Beginning” (Central Division Resound Vol.34, No.1), Andy Call discusses how the use of words reflects such changes:

Regardless of our personal feelings about the debate over gender-neutral or gender-inclusive vocabulary, that vocabulary is now a part of the fabric of our language.

We do have to listen to the words we use when speaking but as Scott has suggested perhaps we need to think about changing words in old text to suit a present day norm.  I think that the debate is not just about gender but about any group of people.

1.  Should we change the words?  Changing words can change the rhythm and feel of a piece.  Singing old songs means we will be representing that period in time.  I think we need to be aware of that and discuss the none inclusiveness of the language not matter what ages our choir represents.  I tend to even mention it when we perform if it is appropriate.

2.  Should we sing that song?  Perhaps, if the song has a very skewed use of language, it might be inappropriate to be sung.  Is the music worth the use of language that is derogatory towards a certain group of people?  I think not.  If I wouldn't be comfortable saying the words, then I certainly won't sing them.  Even if we change the words of a well know song, the old and perhaps insulting words may still be remembered.  My vote is nix the song.

3.  How do we decide?  Common sense is our biggest ally.  Put yourself in the other's shoes.  Ask others and if they feel at all uncomfortable then let that common sense kick in. There has got to be something else out there more important than that single song.

What do you do?  

Fun Friday - I Believe She's Amazing at the Eaton Centre

The song is really catchy with good words.  The dancers are very co-ordinated.  The venue bright and roomy.  But the very best part is the joy that the music and the vivacious action brings to all around them.  The crowd is smiling, clapping and really into the music.  Isn't that what it is all about?

Tonal Tuesday - The National Anthem How To's

We have been asked to sing Oh Canada and God Save the Queen at the Embro Highland Games July 1.  I don't know about you, but I have watched soloists and choirs alike sing national anthems that truly made me cringe.  Here are some suggestions for making the national anthem of any country, a true tribute.

1. Memorize the Words - There are some very famous faux pas that have centred around not singing the correct words.  One memorable hockey game had a fine singer who obviously had learned the words of Oh Canada from an old book because the words were changed slightly in 1967 when it became our OFFICIAL national anthem.  In this case, Mr. Bean type schwa sounds will not do.

2. Practice - Do not assume that you all ready know it well enough to sing.  Practice perhaps even more than for any other song.  It is all ready well known by those listening and you must present the best possible rendition.

3. Accompanist - Make certain to practise with the accompanist so that speed and volume do not become negative issues.  Your accompaniment must augment your vocal sounds not drown them out or be so soft that it is hard to stay in tune.

4. Tried and True - Please, oh please stay with the original and straight forward rendition.   There is NO need to warble or use rubato to fancy it up.  An anthem is not the time to get creative.  This is especially true when the audience is encouraged to sing along.  K.I.S.S. the anthem (keep it simple sweetie)

5. Dress Appropriately - It may be hot or cold.  It may be an arena or board room.  Wherever and whenever you sing, please wear something that reflects the importance of your song.  Choirs who have set uniforms are set.  I believe groups sing better when they dress to reflect the sound they wish to make, blended.  The old white top and black trousers or skirts is always a good fall back.  Soloists, please cover up all your parts and let's not have a wardrobe malfunction.

When in doubt let the babies sing it.

Fun Friday - Music that Shows We Care

I don't know why I hadn't seen this wonderful song.  It is two years old but its message timeless.  The choir that they form near the end is very impressive.

The words mean so much more when you have been with friends who have sent their children into a war zone.  Both came back "safely" but probably never the same.

Watch and be reminded of the power of the choir!

Tonal Tuesday - Thank You for the Music

When we started practice on Sunday, I told the choir that after practice and after listening to the rehearsal CD I couldn't get this song out of my head.  Well here we go again.

I love this speed.  Don't you?

To my wonderful singers I say with all my heart, thank YOU for the music.

Fun Friday - Holy Cow! How Does He Do That?

This multi-tasking in a whole new way. If you want to just see the instrumental part move the cursor to 3:55 to start.