“THE PUBLIC ALWAYS KNOWS WHEN THE SINGER IS FULLY AWARE OF WHAT THEY WANT TO SHARE” (Lawrence Brownelee, Tenor — Master Class at MSM 3/30/25

THE ART AND CRAFT OF BEL CANTO WAS DISCOVERED, DEVELOPED AND NURTURED SPECIFICALLY FOR THE SOLO CLASSICAL SINGER –

it encompasses a profound understanding of vocal technique, emphasizing the beauty of tone, agility, and emotional expression. By cultivating the singer’s natural abilities through rigorous training and practice, this method allows for a seamless blend of vocal prowess and artistry. Bel canto not only highlights the technical aspects of singing but also fosters a deeper connection between the performer and the audience, creating a captivating experience that transcends the mere act of singing.

“DON’T SING TO BE JUDGED – YOUR IMPORTANT GOAL MUST BE TO TELL A STORY” (Licia Albanese, Metropolitan Opera)

(When auditioning, competing or performing – do not go out there hoping to be liked – go out to share your love and emotional committment to the words and music . The listners will feel the difference. )

“DON`T PHYSICAlIZE A PHRASE AS YOU SING it — INTERNALIZE IT BEFORE YOU SING”

Mental preparation of each phrase as you prepare to sing it allows the body to physicalize it as it obeys the direction of the imagination. .

ALWAYS FIND THE “SOUND” AND “THE SENSE” OF THE WORDS YOU SING

The emotional meaning of a word is so often in the sound of the word. Developing this skill is an important part of your technic and your artistry.

“OVER-EMPHASIS ON DIRECT MUSCULAR CONTROL IS INVARIABLY THE CAUSE OF TENSION IN YOUNG SINGERS. ” (Sergius Kagen – ‘On Sudying Singing’)

The body obeys the mind. It is imperative to have simple, organized thoughts in order to sing freely, healthfully, musically, spontaneiously.

“HEAR IT – SEE IT – SING IT “

LISTENING TO YOURSELF AS YOU SING IS SELF DEFEATING. THE MUSCLES OF THE THROAT TIGHTEN IF YOU DO.

WelcomR to the first Thought of the Week for the New Year:

“LEARN FROM THOSE WHO WENT BEFORE YOU AND THEN MAKE IT YOUR OWN”

“A SINGER MUST FIRST KNOW WHERE EACH PHRASE IS GOING IN ORDER TO GET INTO IT FROM THE FIRST TONE” –— THINK AHEAD!

“A SINGER`S GOAL SHOULD BE TO COORDINATE ONE’S INNER EAR, INNER EYE AND VOICE” (Sergius Kagen “On Studying Singing”