Seamus singing Pure Imagination, All Together Now, November 2021
During the phase when both male and female voices are going through changes and settling, vocal training becomes a more serious endeavor. It is important to wait until the voice has undergone its transformation before delving deeper into vocal instruction. Each student's vocal instrument is unique, particularly at the Senior level, and requires careful consideration.
At The Independent Theatre Workshop, we understand the importance of tailoring the musical repertoire to suit the individual's voice during this transitional phase. For higher level exams, appropriate music is selected and can be worked on. However, many students begin their vocal training at this age and choose to focus on building a strong foundation in the basics of singing. Regardless of the chosen path, this is an opportune time to commit to singing and embrace a more serious approach.
First-year students at our workshop are eligible to participate in Grades 4 and above in the Leinster School Musical Theatre exams, which consists of eight grades. As students progress, the focus becomes more specific, and they are encouraged to diversify their musical repertoire by studying both classical music and musical theatre. This approach ensures that as the voice matures, it remains versatile and protected from potential damage.
Many of our Senior students are actively involved in musical productions or are preparing for their Junior Cert so they are working towards specific repertoire and rehearsal goals. We understand the significance of tailoring instruction to meet these individual needs and provide the necessary guidance to excel in these endeavors.
Private lessons are highly encouraged for students who are pursuing Grades 4 and above, especially for Junior Cert students who wish to include singing as part of their practical examinations. Private lessons offer a focused and personalized approach to instruction, allowing students to receive individualized attention, address specific challenges, and refine their vocal techniques. Our singing students have consistently achieved excellent results in their practicals.
At The Independent Theatre Workshop, we prioritize the well-rounded development of our students. We recognize that a comprehensive musical education goes beyond musical theatre alone. By encouraging students to explore classical music alongside their musical theatre repertoire, we help them cultivate versatility and a broader musical understanding. This not only nurtures their vocal abilities but also safeguards their vocal health and longevity.
Our dedicated instructors are experienced in working with students at this crucial stage of vocal development. They provide the necessary guidance, support, and expertise to help students navigate the changes in their voices and progress towards their musical goals. By creating a nurturing and inclusive environment, we empower students to develop their unique voices, express themselves artistically, and embrace the joy of singing.
Our students performing in Carmen with Irish National Opera in 2022 at The Bord Gais Energy Theatre
At this age our students can join our ITW Junior Musical Theatre Company and perform in a fully staged musical each year and travel to Birmingham for the MTI Jr Musical Theatre Festival. Many also work with The Irish National Opera in professional large scale productions in the Bord Gais and Gaiety Theatres and on tour and with Festival Productions at Christmas.
If you are a student in this transitional phase, whether aiming for higher level exams, musical performances, or preparing for the Junior Cert, The Independent Theatre Workshop is here to support and guide you on your musical journey. We invite you to take this exciting step and embark on a path of serious singing and personal growth. Both male and female voices are in a state of changing and settling during this phase. Vocal training can start to get more serious after the voice has changed. Every student’s instrument is different, especially at the Senior level. Music appropriate for the individual’s voice is chosen and may be worked on for higher level exams, however many students only start their training at this age and choose to focus on basics. Whatever the goal, this is a good time to get serious about singing.
We take 4 students into a 1 hour Senior Singing lesson. Private lessons are encouraged for students doing Grades 4 and above, especially for Junior Cert students who wish to sing as part of their practical. But places are limited. To book your place select the class that fits your schedule when re enrolling for September or, for new students, register and create your student profile and then call our friendly Office Staff at ITW on 012600831 to chat through the available time slots available.
