CONTACT: Christine Schneider, 515-271-4011, christine.schneider@drake.edu;
Lisa Lacher, 515-271-3119, lisa.lacher@drake.edu
Young vocalists can hone their skills at Drake University this summer with two classes designed for students interested in performing and pursuing music careers.
Drake Associate Professor of Voice Leanne Freeman-Miller will teach a three-session class for high school students that will cover vocal anatomy, diction and an in-depth study of healthy singing.
“This class is a must for any high school singer considering a career in music,” she said. “Students will learn about respiration and breath management, optimization of resonance and vocal coordination. In addition, we will cover the International Phonetic Alphabet, a necessary tool for all singers who sing in foreign languages.”
The class will meet from 1 to 5 p.m. June 5, 6 and 7 in room 204 of the Harmon Fine Arts Center, 25th Street and Carpenter Avenue. Tuition is $100 and enrollment is limited.
The second class, called Spotlight Express, will enable students in grades four through eight to explore music from Broadway shows. The students will learn how to sing a solo with confidence, take control of the stage and let their inner stars shine. Each week the singers will add a new component to their solo pieces and will develop audition techniques, movement, stage presence and vocal projection.
Spotlight Express will meet at 4 p.m. Wednesdays beginning June 20 in the Harmon Fine Arts Center. At the end of the six-week session, singers will take the stage to perform in a Musical Theater Showcase. Tuition is $264, plus a $25 enrollment fee. Class size is limited to 10 students.
For more information or to register for either class, contact Christine Schneider at 515-271-4011 or christine.schneider@drake.edu.