The Vocal Program

The CHS Vocal Program teaches students to be excellent musicians/leaders/people through the vocal instrument.

We aspire to help develop creative, mature problem-solvers. To that end, students in the Vocal Program are focussed, disciplined, open & accepting.

Students will become community leaders through music.

In the Canterbury Vocal Program, we:

• support and insist on the use of proper, healthy vocal technique at all times, in both solo and in ALL ensemble singing...THIS MEANS CHOIR, TOO;

• focus on both solo and ensemble singing;

• encourage a partnership with a private, qualified teacher of singing;

• offer and encourage participation in a variety of performance opportunities;

• provide performance opportunities that offer significant, group-based feedback (workshops, music festival, chamber ensembles, guest artists);

• use a variety of technology (e.g., Noteflight, Sight Reading Factory, Soundtrap, Reaper);

• develop collaborative skills;

• explore the use of your instrument in various scenarios;

• explore a variety of repertoire/genres;

• introduce tools for learning - we teach you how to learn music!

• expect that the choices you make on a daily basis will demonstrate your commitment to improving;

• expect you to problem-solve! There are MANY tools/processes in place to help you be your best in the program (and in life!). By choosing to use them, you are showing your respect for the program and your colleagues, thereby allowing you and the people around you to be their very best. You will need to develop planning and organizational skills. After all, it's all about your effort;

• expect you to honour your commitment - to the music, to your audience, to your colleagues, to your teachers, and to the department;

• expect you to communicate your commitment to those around you - your family/friends/bosses/teachers/etc. need to know the importance of your commitment to CHS.

Please note that this program is NOT a substitute for one-on-one instruction.

For optimal development and progress, and to greatly decrease the likelihood of damage to the vocal apparatus, it is recommended that students engage the services of a private vocal teacher who is trained to teach singing! For more information about the importance of studying with a qualified voice teacher, click here!