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WORKSHOP
Paul Holley Choral Conducting
Since singing is so good a thing, I
wish all men would learn to sing.
William Byrd (1543-1623) English composer
If one is to take note of the breadth of singing and
choral music in Armidale in 2009 it would be quite obvious
that many not only “learn to sing” but thoroughly
enjoy singing together in the choral setting. Entries in
the choral sections of the Armidale Eisteddfod (from
infant’s school to tertiary level) were very healthy, providing
opportunities for the more youthful. And, for the
adults, the Armidale Choral Society, Fiori Musicali, and
Sing Australia all provide avenues for singing in choirs.
So when a person of the calibre of Paul Holley (Director
of the award-winning Birralee Blokes) hits town it
is only natural that we would enlist his help to learn to
sing even better!
Paul, who has a regular connection with Armidale as
the choral director of the annual Armidale Music Foundation
Choral and Orchestral Weekend, gave a most
enlightening workshop at the end of the Eisteddfod
choral sections on June 3rd. The workshop, attended
by primary and secondary school teachers as well as
other interested observers, touched on aspects of
choral training such as-
• The choir environment- rehearsal goals, role of the
conductor and the chorister, room setup, time of
rehearsal, how to approach a new song, pace of the
rehearsal.
• Warmups- posture, breathing, blend of vowels,
articulation, range.
• Maximising the sound of your choir- diction, resonance,
placement of singers, spacing of singers and
voice parts.
• Repertoire- how do I find it: listen to music, visit
publisher’s websites, go to reading days, contact
other conductors, where to buy.
In addition, Paul conducted the rehearsal of NECOM
Cantilena in an entertaining and educational manner.
Paul has an easy-going and friendly manner which encourages
conductors and children/adults to feel comfortable
enough to take risks in their choral endeavours.
I have always found Paul Holley’s rehearsals and
workshops very inspirational. As a bonus, Paul was engaged
to spend his final evening in Armidale working
with Fiori Musicali- a special privilege indeed!
Wendy Huddleston, NECOM Music Educator Member
Paul Holley
Choral conductors from all over the region attended the workshop
Both primary and secondary conductors attended the workshop.
NECOM NEWS JULY 2009 5