Performing Musical Theater

In this course, which is open to all levels, students explore how to create a polished and convincing solo song performance. Each class meeting begins with a vocal warmup, reviewing the basics of good singing technique and ear training. Through individual work, we approach each song from a vocal, musical, and dramatic standpoint, discussing character, story, and presentation. Students delve deeply into the song texts by working them as monologues, learn vocal techniques that strengthen their song performance, and study the musical score and how it enhances the lyrics. Partner exercises are used to explore lyrics and the meaning behind them, and students sometimes act in each other's scenes to flesh out the songs and give them context. The final consists of a polished presentation of each student's song, using all the elements explored throughout the term, and a brief report of the song, show, composer, and lyricist.