Raising Voices Introductory Day
7th September 2002
UCM
While registration was at 9.30am, some of our members arrived before that in good time to assist with tea/coffee and help with the distribution of information packs. When everyone had refreshments and was seated, I welcomed all, made apologies for those not able to join us, dealt with the housekeeping and introduced Judith Sheridan, Vice-President of Tosini.
Judith was giving Tosini’s inaugural workshop – The Myths and Facts of Singing.
Judith gave us an historical perspective of voice and teaching, linking into emotional responses, culture, language and aesthetics. We were treated to a very interesting tape of many different vocal uses, from familiar sounds and voices, to fascinating and frightening sounds. The one thing they all had in common was that they were made by humans and did not cause harm to the larynx. When we stopped for coffee, there was much discussion and laughter as Tosini members shared their thoughts on the first part of our day. Little did they know how much fun the next bit was going to be!
Judith then assembled a paper larynx and after explaining the different bits, members were encouraged to build their own in the lunch break! The physical and acoustical approach followed explaining how small muscle movements in the larynx and pharynx can change sounds and voice qualities. This part of the day was full of information and a lot to absorb and really could have been a full day’s workshop in itself.
After a delicious cold buffet lunch provided by The Yellow Door Delicatessen, our Tosini members broke into small groups to talk about voice and singing and their own personal experiences of teaching. There were views exchanged, expertise shared and this alone was a wonderful success for Tosini and really what we have formed this organisation to do.
We then had a discussion about the terminology used when discussing singing and teaching students - what did we really mean when using these words? Referring back to the more anatomical aspect covered in the workshop earlier in the day, we had a clearer understanding what we meant by these terms. Judith then concluded her presentation to great applause and much appreciation by the Tosini members.
The open discussion on future Tosini events proved to be a very valuable part of the day. The enthusiasm for this first event was reiterated and members were very eager not to lose momentum and were keen to make plans for future events and workskhops. Many valuable suggestions were made including a students’ annual concert, workshops for school choir directors, workshops on breathing, the adolescent voice, younger voices, repertoire, music theatre, audition and performance techniques. There were enough suggestions to keep us going for the next 5 years anyway!In the meantime, I feel it is important to consolidate what happened at the UCM on the 7th September and build on this enthusiasm and energy. As a first consideration, Tosini must form a small committee to attend to the practicalities of organising our charitable status and a number of members have come forward to offer their time and abilities.
It is hoped that several sub committees can be formed to deal with the various aspects that Tosini hopes to address . The Tosini Web site is a priority and is presently being designed and should be live shortly. A leaflet about Tosini saying who we are and what we do is also being organised to be distributed to groups, choirs, libraries etc. and some will be sent to all members to hand out as they see fit. Tosini Membership cards and details of the database I have of members will also be available shortly.
Regarding enrolment for new members to Tosini, I would encourage you all to recommend this organisation to at least one singing/teaching friend. Anyone wishing to join should e-mail info@tosini.org and ask to be sent details or alternatively, wait for the online enrolment form. The more people we have as members, the more we can do.
The Tosini committee also will be looking at venues and dates for a Tosini Student Concert – any ideas and thoughts on this would be very welcome .
Tosini is working closely with Judith Sheridan and Paul Farrington to organise an intensive 12 week Music Theatre Course to be held in Belfast in the Spring 2003. Details will be available by the end of October 2002. Bringing to Belfast some of the most gifted experts that work in the West End, the course will cover all the aspects of performance, movement, acting and repertoire and should be a really rewarding experience for young singers.A date for your diaries – our President Paul Farrington has confirmed that he will be coming to Belfast on Saturday 1st February 2003 – watch this space! And as ever, Tosini will be working on your behalf to plan and organise informative, enjoyable and interesting events open to everyone who loves singing and the human voice.
Thank you for your continued support.
Marie O’Sullivan
