Singing Technique & Repertoire - Songs of Adele

Students will learn and practice professional vocal technique exercises each week, and apply the vocal technique to songs by Adele.  We will work with a new song each week for 5 weeks, while during our last class each singer will have the option to choose a song to review and/or perform.  Class size is kept small to allow for individual attention to ensure that each student is singing with proper coordination of vocal technique.  We focus not only on 'what' we sing (the notes of the melody in songs) but 'how' we sing, encouraging balance and healthy placement and coordination in the voice.  Adele's singing presents a challenge as we learn how to use our 'mix' voice in this style of singing.  Singers will learn about the different registers of the voice with a focus on strengthening the mix voice. Students will also learn about posture, breath, basic music theory for singers, the use of diphthongs in singing, and acting choices for the singer.  More advanced singers can learn about working with an accompaniment track.  
My goal for my students is that they will begin to develop awareness of what the mix voice is and be able feel the difference between what works and what doesn’t work, enabling them to eventually become their own teachers, and able to sing freely and confidently in various musical settings.  
Songs and exercises are carefully selected based on student level and vocal development as well as to present different learning opportunities and balance in the voice.  

Week 1:
Introduction, Discussion - Favorite Adele Songs
Vocal Technique Exercises
Song: Easy on Me

Week 2:
Vocal Technique Exercises
Discussion - Vocal Technique, aspects of Mix Voice
Review: Easy on Me
New Song: Skyfall

Week 3:
Vocal Technique Exercises
Discussion - Vocal Technique, vowel modification
New Song: Hello
Review: Song of student's choice

Week 4:
Vocal Technique Exercises
Discussion - Diaphragm, what is it and how can it help the singer?
New song:  Set Fire to the Rain
Review: Song of student's choice

Week 5:
Vocal Technique Exercises
Discussion - Performance & Singing with Live Musicians or Instrumental Track, Choosing a song to perform
New Song: Chosen based on students' favorite songs/preference and vocal level

Week 6:
Vocal Technique Exercises
Discussion - Review of tools for vocal technique
Song:  Students have the opportunity to review and perform a song of their choice with an instrumental track