The art of improvisational music is a wonder to many. When jazz musicians improvise, an untrained ear can get lost and wonder: how do the musicians know where they are?
How can they know how to harmonize and how do those rhythms interlock so seamlessly?
In a capella vocal music, improvisation is incredibly freeing and once you relax and get out of your head, it's like breathing — an involuntary response — yet focused, like skipping Double Dutch- your instincts take over and you get into the 'groove.' If you like to sing, come to this workshop.
Soul Circle happens this Saturday from 1 to 5 when international voice teacher and songwriter Joanna Finch welcomes you to join her in a four hour workshop in Vocal Improv. Anyone can participate — experienced or not, all people find improvisation exciting and challenging.
Joanna taught in Antigua and in Ecuador last winter and is very happy to offer her new sounds and techniques to the Comox Valley. A jazz and classical trained folk/cabaret singer, Joanna's vocal sounds have astonished her audiences for years.
Her 'vocal cornet' is often mistaken for a real trumpet; she evokes the spirit of birds, flutes, electronic gadgets, Billy Holiday, Elvis, Satchmo, Tuuvan throat singers, and sacred choristers when she channels her soul song. Her workshops are popular and full of fun.
In a safe and friendly circle, participants will learn how to support and be supported through vocal improv/pattern singing. The workshop will focus on encouraging you to expand your vocal range and move into a deeply satisfying relationship with your voice.
We begin gently with the breath, move into the body, allowing authentic sounds and laughter to release inhibitions, then spend the rest of the time creating unique "sound mandalas."
Mouth percussion, body music, call and response, harmony and counterpoint, physical comedy, world music and jazz all will be smoothly woven into the workshop, so you will come away with a new set of vocal skills and memories that will bring lasting confidence.
This workshop is fun, exciting and transformative. Men and women, youth and elders, voices blending in harmony and rhythm- this is what community sounds like.
The workshop takes place at Innisfree Farm at 3636 Trent Road in Royston. Registration must be paid in full by Nov. 8 via Paypal at www.joannafinch.ca.
For more information. phone 250-792-3717 or e-mail joyjobird@gmail.com. Only pre-paid registrants, please.
— Joanna Finch