This wonderful documentary is about the musical, A Chorus Line. It tells the history of making the original stage production and also follows the casting process for the latest Broadway revival. Fascinating – and surely a must for anyone considering a career in theater. It also speaks to everyone who does something because it is “their passion.” EVERY LITTLE STEP is in theaters now. Go see it.

My students tend to hunch over music placed on the table in front of the piano. No more. I found our music stands. I’ve placed them at two heights – for shorter or taller singers. Now, stand tall and look straight ahead when you sing. It’s better for breathing, singing and appearance. Remember you don’t want to sing to the ceiling either. We want to see your eyes, not your chin.

Your use of practice time between lessons can definitely influence “getting your money’s worth.” You will make progress even if you rarely practice between lesson sessions, but you will get more for your money and get ahead more quickly if you make good use of your practice time. Here are some thoughts. Feel free to comment or add to the list.

1. Sometimes practice in front of a mirror. It is amazing what we don’t realize we are doing. Or video-tape yourself, if you have that option.
2. When you are performing live, a lot of how good the audience thinks you are is VISUAL. The Susan Boyle effect doesn’t work that often.
3. Practicing for long stretches increases your endurance, but many short sessions during the day often work at least as well.
4. Practice breathing separate from singing. Become aware of your breathing. You can practice breathing anywhere.
5. Most students hate this exercise, but it really does help to “talk sing.” In other words go around singing whatever thoughts come into your head in any made up tune. It connects the relationship of singing to talking.
6. You don’t always have to “sound lovely.” When you are practicing, you will make some gosh awful sounds while your voice is figuring out what to do. Don’t be afraid of that.
7. You are your teacher. I like to think I’m wonderful, but mostly I’m here to help YOU discover your voice and how it works. Try things. Ask questions. Contact me between lessons if something feels like it is or isn’t working. You don’t have to wait until your next lesson to bring it up.
8. Vowels carry the sound and consonants let us know what you are saying. Consonants need to be short and crisp. Vowels long and ringing. Yes, we need both.
9. Open your mouth and move your lips. You aren’t trying to become a ventriloquist.
10. Quoting Eloise Ristad quoting Chaim Nahor: “In any art there must be movement or it becomes static – dead.” Your body can help you here if you will move when you are practicing. Let your body feel and lead your singing.