Voices Now is a unique and exciting performance group for singers of all levels. Students in Voices Now will learn the skills needed to excel at singing in different contemporary genres such as pop, R&B/soul, indie/alt., rock, jazz, hip-hop, country, blues, etc. A variety of topics will be covered such as smart song selection; choosing the right key; genre-appropriate stylization; movement; vocal improvisation; storytelling and the acting part of singing; microphone technique; overcoming performance anxiety/stage fright, and more. In Voices Now, singers will have the opportunity to be a lead singer and to sing harmonies as a member of the ensemble. Students will also learn how to effectively communicate with each other and with instrumentalists during rehearsals, and how to actively listen to each other when performing. The repertoire will encompass a broad spectrum, from classic jazz standards to today's indie/alternative and everything in between. Students are encouraged to share their own ideas for songs/arrangements in order to create a unique and diverse program for the ensemble.

At the start of the 2020-2021 school year, classes will meet online via ZOOM. We will focus on creating an ensemble that works in a home recording setting. Students will be recording audio/video at home on their computers and coordinating with the other students to create virtual performance videos, under the direction of Mr. Bill Brendle.

Voices Now performs at the Fall and Spring Vocal Concerts as well as other special events throughout the year.

Voices Now is directed by Mr. Bill Brendle whose Vocal Jazz groups and Contemporary Vocal Ensembles earned gold and silver awards at the Heritage Music Festival in Anaheim, CA.

Voices Now Highlights

• Exploring your voice in new ways and developing a unique vocal style

• Learning healthy vocal techniques that can be used in all styles of music

• Developing musical skills: ear-training, sight-reading, blending, and learning to sing harmonies in a safe and supportive group setting

• Singing comfortably and confidently across your vocal range

• Collaborating on original vocal arrangements in a variety of styles

• A cappella singing, vocal improvisation, and circle singing

• Developing self-confidence and overcoming performance anxiety

• Meeting new friends and team building

• Performing with instrumentalists, developing effective communication skills with musicians

• Performing at an adjudicated music music festival (circumstances permitting)

• Recording at home and in a professional studio (circumstances permitting)

Class Information

• Beginning in the fall of 2020 Voices Now will meet via ZOOM on Tues-Wed-Thurs @ 7:55-8:40 a.m.

• Vocal Point is open to students in grades 9-12 who are concurrently enrolled in Choir, Orchestra, or Wind Ensemble.

• Students who are interested in joining Voices Now for the 2020-21 school year will submit an evaluation video with up to 60 seconds of themselves singing a cappella (unaccompanied) a song of their own choosing.

• Tip: Choose a song that you love to sing, have fun with the video! It's for placement purposes only!

• Send your video as an email attachment to bill.brendle@viewpoint.org by Friday, September 11th

If you have any questions about Voices Now please contact Mr. Bill Brendle:

email: bill.brendle@viewpoint.org

office: 818-591-6571