3 ways to sing!

1) SingShop©
The whole body is a musical instrument.  Our grounding upon the earth, our fully connected breath, the support from our muscle structure deep down, the relaxed and open passage upward to the resonating chambers – all combine to create our uniquely expressive voice.

As well as helping you manifest your true sound SingShop will strengthen your musical skills and confidence.

SingShop Level One and Level Two normally happen once a week for a period six to eight weeks, and involve a group of from six to ten singers. Presently classes take place at Britannia Community Centre and at Colleen's studio.

» SingShop Course Description PDF

2) Voices Rising Ensemble is Vancouver's most eclectic community choir. SingShop students wanted a next step, and performing was the logical choice! So with the help of the Britannia Community Centre, Voices Rising came into existence.

Voices Rising is a musical exploration of gospel tunes, jazz standards, favourite rhythm and blues numbers and Old English and Renaissance rounds. While tending toward a jazzy, bluesy style, the ensemble likes to experiment and create arrangements for familiar tunes.

Voices Rising performs at community events such as Illuminares, Bright Nights, and Britannia Craft Fairs and Solstice Lantern Festivals. We perform at our own neighbourhood Canada Day celebrations and regularly at the Britannia Art Gallery.

Ensemble singing also has the power to heal and uplift. Voices Rising loves to bring our joyful sound to Vancouver care facilities such as the Dr. Peters Centre, Cottage Hospice and elders lodges.

Launched in 2004, Voices Rising has a steady membership of twelve to sixteen singers. New members are welcome! Some singing experience is helpful.

3) Private instruction allows for a high level of personal attention and rapid progress. Problems, weak spots or any limiting singing habits can be worked on with a real focus and attention. Good singing habits soon begin to develop into a homogeneous, fluid and resonant tone.

Singers preparing to audition or record benefit hugely from Colleen's firm but gentle coaching. A couple of important pointers, designed with your specific project in mind, can make a big difference to your performance. Private session generally are of one hour duration.

VoiceShop for Actors is an effective and affordable way to develop a crucial acting instrument – your voice! VoiceShop for Actors focuses on:

• keeping you relaxed, alert and centred at auditions and in performance
• eliminating stumbles and slurs in your speech
• producing your full range of clear tone
• building the dynamic and expressive qualities of your voice.

Group and individual sessions available.

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singing and voice lessons

A Vancouver-based singing teacher and voice coach with over twenty years experience, Colleen takes students on a voyage of self-discovery toward clear and effortless sound. She uses a distinctive method that regards the whole body as a vocal instrument:– resonant, powerfully expressive, and unique for each individual.

Singers and actors alike benefit from this approach.

Singers gain a solid foundation for any singing style they wish to pursue. Actors improve voice control and diction, and gain confidence.
» See sidebar at right for details.
» View class schedule
» Video: Colleen's teaching method

Voice instruction includes:

• developing a relaxed approach and sense of readiness to express,
• specific vocal technique training,
• a furthering of their understanding of musical forms and repertoire, and
• plenty of supportive coaching around the development of their individual sound or singing style.

In addition, Colleen has a love of ensemble singing that goes back to three-part harmony singing as a child while helping Mom with the dishes. Today we hear that ensemble singing is being recognized as a breakthrough tool for improving physical and emotional health. Singing in a group greatly reduces stress. And it's fun!

feedback

“I’m bringing what I’m learning about breath to all parts of my life.”

“SingShop has given me the confidence to sing seriously instead of absently.”

“The exercises made me feel grounded, open and focused. It’s the perfect preparation for getting into character.”

“I notice my posture more. I’m able to correct it and feel better.”

“I feel l like I actually can sing now.”

“This was the best class I’ve ever taken.”

“I am much more confident in trying new things. I want the next level now.”