Designed
to enhance the private lessons and to help students become more audition- and
performance-ready,
these
classes deal with common technical problems in a group setting. NOVA Academy
is sensitive to some performers who are not experienced in this particular
venue and work them in slowly. These classes are extremely helpful in that we all must deal with the same issues regarding singing no
matter how inexperienced or advanced we are. Frequently, realizations about
one’s own technique occur at these forums that we would be hard-pressed to
recreate in a private lesson.
Ensemble
participants need to
attend ALL rehearsals, as others are depending on the attendance and effort of
everyone involved. Those
who actively participate achieve their goals much faster and enjoy a sense of
community with other active students.
SATURDAY STUDIO
Studio
is a weekly student encounter to refine performance techniques. Basic
coordinations such as standing still, eliminating unconscious body movements, checking progress in memorizations and dictions are addressed. Includes
introduction to Elements of Interpretation and Stage Movement. At
Saturday Studio, all
levels of students integrate to learn part-songs, cannons, and a
capella harmonies.
NOVAA
Students perform a double duet
RECITAL
Students participate in Recital to
learn how to work with an accompanist, choose repertoire,
and address an intimate audience. Repertoire is assigned, and final
class is performance in a Recital before a live audience. NOVA
ACADEMY
Recitals enhance
students’ performance skills and building confidence. Recitals
are held at various public venues, including Kent State University’s Ludwig
Hall in Kent, and First Church of Akron's Learning Center.
Solos and ensembles are coached with professional accompanists.
Stage performance details such as lighting, acoustics, makeup and
apparel, and interaction with audiences are addressed.
Recitals are videotaped so students can review them with teachers and
learn how to objectively view their progress.
ACTING FOR SINGERS
Performing
an advanced vocal technique on complicated musical literature is quite a
challenge; many singers are so focused on the vocal and musical processes that
interpretation suffers. Additionally, singers are often required to act
without singing. Acting for Singers classes are designed to teach
basic acting and interpretation techniques in both private and small ensemble
lessons through monologues and lyrics.
DANCE ELEMENTS FOR SINGERS
Combining
vocal technique with dancing is an extremely complicated and difficult
process, yet many performing groups requre their members to attempt this
with no training. Dance Elements for Singers educates performers as to
the dangers involved in combining these two activities, and teaches the
correct way to incorporate dance movements into a vocal performance.
MUSIC/DRAMA WORKSHOPS
(By audition)
In
NOVAA’s comprehensive workshops, the following aspects of performing are
addressed:
basic/advanced
stage movement vocal
projection/placement for venues
singing/acting
in duets, ensembles character
development
suspending
disbelief
dramatic timing and use of silence
eliminating
stage nervousness
use of lighting/sound/acoustics
makeup,
costuming basics
photos, resumes
selecting/preparing
repertoire
business basics for performing artists
