This course will run over the course of several months and is open to anyone interested in learning more about the voice – singers, speakers, teachers, therapists, choral conductors. Participants will be introduced to the concepts and exercises of Estill Voice Training (also known as Estill Voicecraft), an innovative, informative and empowering approach that creates a pathway to exciting vocal discoveries.  Free from aesthetic bias, the Figures (exercises) of Level One reveal the basic mechanics of how the voice works. Each Figure creates a specific vocal sound effect, adds a particular "ingredient" to our vocal "recipe".

In Level One, we explore the range of effects available and acquire valuable insights regarding vocal health, stamina and power. Each day will include interactive lectures as well as opportunities for group and individual practice. Open Coaching sessions offer the chance to see how Figures can be used to break down the barriers standing between you and your vocal goals.

In Level Two, we explore how EVT’s Figures can be used to mix the "recipes" for 6 voice qualities: Speech, Falsetto, Sob, Twang, Opera, and Belting.

This course is intended for teachers and students of singing and actors.

The Level One course teaches the tools to control vocal instrument. Students will learn EVT’s Figures to use better vocal structures are useful to sing every musical genre or to play every character.

Open to anyone with an interest in learning about the voice, for example, singers, voice teachers, actors, clinical voice professionals, etc. The course begins with an introduction to the Estill Voice Model with Figures for Voice Control, and an overview of this course. We will then work through all the figures in Level One by practicing individually in small groups and integrating them into singing and different genres of music. The days will alternate between classroom presentations, practice sessions in small groups and open sessions.

What is Estill Voice Training?

• Can I do “figures” with my voice like skaters do at the Olympics?
• What is the relationship between Anchoring and Support?
• Is “healthy belting” close to “healthy opera?”>
• How can I cross-over to produce different speaking & singing styles?
• How can I increase my pitch range safely?

Bring a working song or monologue to experiment with the power of vocal color.

This course is presented by Helga Westmark, who was one of the first Certified Course Instructors in Europe – so-called Vanguards. She was taught and educated by Jo Estill herself during the 90´s and she is educating new people all the way through the EVT system.

This course is open to anyone who took the EVT, Level One Course.

The course begins with a short repetition of the Compulsory Figures for Voice. We will work on the 6 Voice Qualities in Level Two, (Speech, Falsetto, Sob, Twang, Opera and Belting). During the 2 days we will practice the Six Voice Qualities of Level Two together and individually, integrating new skills into singing and applying them to different genres of music. The days will alternate between classroom presentations, practice sessions and open sessions.

Ms. Speed will be presenting with Mary Hammond, Internationally Renowned Vocal Coach, David White, West End Musical Director, and other leading musical theatre industry professionals (subject to availability).

This three day course will look at the demands of contemporary musical theatre and the varying

vocal styles that the West End demands. We will cover auditioning, from choosing appropriate

material to presenting it in the right format; working in different voice qualities, shifting quality

from one song to the next, acting through singing, warm ups and other relevant topics. The course will feature leading West End musical directors, vocal coaches and choreographers.

The course will include:

• sessions on auditions
• choosing repertoire
• cutting edge vocal technique
• maximizing performance choices
• problem solving

Suitable For: Those new to the Estill Voice Model and ‘old hands’, anyone working with the voice; singing teachers, professional singers, students and amateurs

Book via the web site www.thevoiceexplained.com

Level 1

Participants will be given a practical grounding in vocal technique and vocal anatomy and physiology that will allow them to approach any vocal endeavour with confidence and skill. The Estill Model teaches voluntary differentiated control of specific parts of the vocal mechanism and an understanding of vocal function.

Each participant will receive individual feedback and monitoring to ensure that all concepts are understood and applied correctly.

The emphasis from the start will be on singing and speaking individually and as a group to reinforce technical ideas. Participants will learn techniques that will set them up for a career of safe voice work.

Level 2

Participants will develop mastery of vocal qualities including Speech, Twang (nasal and clear), Falsetto, Opera and Belting. Applications to the singing voice will be practised. Hone your trouble shooting skills.

Each participant will receive individual feedback and monitoring to ensure that all concepts are understood and applied correctly. The emphasis from the start will be on voicing individually andas a group to reinforce technical ideas.

Classical, Contemporary and Music Theatre singing styles will be studied. Tuition will be via masterclasses, small group lessons and ensemble.

Closing date for registrations & full payment required by: Friday, 5th Mar 2010

To secure a place, a deposit of $100 is required immediately. This will be deducted from full payment

This course is open only to those who have already taken a Level One course.

The Level Two course teaches how EVT’s Figures can be used to mix the "recipes" for 6 voice qualities: Speech, Falsetto, Sob, Twang, Opera, and Belting.