An extra half-octave

During 2011 I keep my promise to myself, and practise my singing most days.

The practice pays off, and I start to improve a lot.  But there's still a lot to remember, and it's not feeling natural yet.

Progress is still sporadic and unpredictable.  One night at my singing lesson, in a massive breakthrough I suddenly discover an extra half-octave of range.   That makes two and a half octaves - not bad for someone who originally thought she had only one.

The high notes are not strong or consistent - but they're there.

I'm starting to produce some good notes on stage.  These often come as a complete surprise.  I'd like not to be surprised when I sing well.

I also produce an occasional bad sound - when I lose control of my breathing or my voice sticks in my throat.  Very embarrassing, and I'd like not to be producing any of these.

At the end of the year I decided that my goal for the next year will be consistency.  I want my voice to be reliable and dependable.  I want to control the sound that comes out of my mouth.

Also during the year I've learned a bit about jazz improvization.  In addition to the "Hear It and Sing It" book, I've been to a couple of masterclasses.

The first was presented by a vocal group called The Idea of North.  They divided the audience into groups, and each group was required to arrange and perform a song, using techniques demonstrated by the professionals.  I come away from this session with a repertoire of methods for arranging songs and improvising melodies.

The other was by a jazz singer called Michelle Nicolle, and was primarily for music students at the Adelaide University Conservatorium.  But it's open to the public too, for the princely sum of $10.  Two hours later, I've learned a variety of improvisational techniques, to the point where I feel confident to try them.  I take copious notes, and marvel at how much you can learn just by sitting, watching and listening.

I practise by singing with the radio in the bathroom, improvizing harmonies and scatting along to the music.  I'm sure my children are mortified.

One morning, amongst my email, I find a survey from Cabaret Summer School.  They are planning the next event and would like some feedback and testimonials from the inaugural participants.

One of the questions inquires "Would you consider doing this program again?"

I'm glad you asked.  I hadn't considered that at all, but now that I begin to think about it, my answer is resoundingly "Yes!  If you'd be willing to have me a second time, why not?'