"As performers we're insecure. That's why we get up on stage."

AUDRA MCDONALD

The language of music goes far beyond reading notes on the page. When the musician is able to connect a composer’s intention with their own creativity a unique performance evolves. Music Theory is a fundamental tool for the developing musician of any ability or genre.

For those considering music at VCE or Tertiary level, theory is an essential component supporting visual and aural comprehension. Some examination boards require a pass in the relevant theory grade to complete practical exams. Students learning an instrument or voice, participating in school music programs, productions and music subjects at any level benefit from the study of a music language. 

Our program features:

·      A graded sequential syllabus supported by Samantha Coates’ BlitzBooks series

·      Examination preparation if required

·      Lessons tailored to suit individual learners

·      Strong Theory fundamentals – Naming notes, scales, intervals, melody and harmony, rhythm, time and key signatures, form and extra musical terms

·      Places music theory in context connecting concepts with the student’s practical studies.

At Music Minds, theory tuition assists the development of the whole musician connecting your passion with the creation of written sound.

Lessons at a glance

• Tailored to suit individual learning style, interests and abilities

• Strong classical technical foundation incorporating posture, breathing, placement and vocal line

• Sight-reading, scales and exercises to build vocal agility, flexibility, range and timbre

• Exploring different styles in the music theatre genre: the 'legit', golden age sound (The Sound of Music); pop and rock infused scores (Pippin, Next to Normal), and contemporary music theatre (Heathers; The Last Five Years; Something Rotten)

• Vocal styling, riffing and improvisation for contemporary pop/rock styled musicals

• Musical interpretation and text meaning, students are encouraged to become independent artistic thinkers in performance

• Acting and character work, understand the context of a song, the motivations and intricacies of the narrative and its players

• Explore repertoire appropriate for age and vocal maturity to foster safe, honest and sincere performances and artists

Why do we sing?

Singing is an expression of who we are as people - each with our individual and unique vocal instrument. Research has shown a strong correlation between choral participation and extra-musical benefits in socialisation, academia and identity construction (Bennetts, 2013). In particular this may benefit the challenging adolescent transition for males as they navigate pressures from society, peers and adults to discover their authentic self.

As a choral educator and vocal specialist I am a passionate advocate for singing throughout the adolescent years. This in part was developed from my own choral experience at school and with organisations such as the Australian National Choral Association, Victorian Opera and Starbound Musical Theatre. 

The two videos below underpin some of the reasons why singing is a crucial part of my musical classroom and approach to teaching. The first, focused on imminent American choral composer Eric Whitacre, explores the intrinsic connectedness experienced through song; whilst the second, a rehearsal video from The Greatest Showman (2017) demonstrates the collaborative joy that can be experienced in singing together.

EXPLORE MEDIA

Music Minds offers 30 minute, 45 minute and 60 minute individual lessons. For more information, contact us or email at musicminds@iinet.net.au.

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