A vocal music performance is about much more than just singing. How do you greet the audience? What are you wearing? How do you move during songs? How’s your show paced? This seminar will address the aspects of performing on stage besides singing, and will increase your both your and the audiences enjoyment of a concert.

I) Appearance

a) Public and media stereotypes
b) Appropriateness in grooming
c) Wardrobe coordination

DISCUSSION: How “should” a jazz group look? A classical group? A rock band?

II) Show Pacing

a) First song: defines who you are, one of your best, get used to sound
b) “First song feel, second song hear”
c) Tempos: fast to slow, fast to slow...
d) Increasing variety (core repertoire and sound first, then branch out)
e) Introduce members early
f) Announce merchandise before intermission, web site and upcoming shows before last song
g) Save the best for last (big finish)

EXERCISE: Design a perfect set for your group without using any specific song titles. Example: “Fast original opener that John sings, followed (with no break) by a fast well-known cover that Mary sings with no break in between...”

III) Staging and Movement

a) Core placement on stage
b) Wired or wireless mics?
c) Movement during songs
d) Stage pictures
e) Movement between songs
f) Focus on lead singer/speaker

EXERCISE: Take each song in your repertoire, and design a “look” for it (stage picture or choreography).

IV) General Performing Principals

a) Everything is happening for the first time
b) Show the entire range of your abilities
c) Gimmicks are only gimmicks if you approach them as such
d) When doing something high/fast/difficult, make it look hard
e) Make sure each member is spotlighted
f) Audience participation
g) Hold the moment after a song is finished
h) Give the audience a chance to appreciate and thank you
i) Don’t apologize on stage
j) Only take encores if they’re genuine
k) Be yourself

DISCUSSION: What are the most important principles of performing that you’ve experienced?

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