The Inspiration Behind Adele's album, 21

Just the other day I was working with one of my students who was singing Adele's song, "Set Fire To The Rain" when I stumbled across this video. This track-by-track interview showcases Adele as she explains the meaning behind each of her songs from her mega successful album, 21. I had asked my student what the lyrics of "Set Fire To The Rain" meant to her and she had no idea. When she couldn't come up with an answer, I realized that I did not know what that song meant either! So.. we looked at this video instead:

I am not only posting this video because I find it both fascinating and entertaining. In fact, I am posting this video to prove a very important point. As a vocalist, it is crucial that you have an emotional connection to whatever it is that you are singing about. Before conquering a song, a connection needs to be made from the heart. We must take the time and put the effort to really dissect the meaning behind each and every word that we are singing about.

It is then, and only then, that we can truly be authentic.

Hope you enjoy! =)
Katrina

The Passaggio - The Vocal Break by Robert Lunte

As a young vocal coach, I study methods from more seasoned coaches in the industry. NATS Member Robert Lunte, who happens to be a fellow University of Miami alumni is the creator of the Vocalist Studio and ModernVocalist.com. Here is an awesome video where he explains The Passaggio (The Vocal Break) in both female and male singers:





It is important to know where your voice sits in relation to the notes on a keyboard. Robert utilizes the vocal twang to help bridge through the vocal break and shows you how to create a seamless and connected tone through the chest and head voice.

This is a great tutorial for singers looking to expand their belt range, create more beef behind their "money notes" and also help you understand what tools to use during this critical part of the voice.

I will be watching this video more than once.. so much info here!

American Idol's Vocal Coach - Debra Byrd

Check out this neat little interview with Debra Byrd, Vocal Coach on American Idol. Debra demonstrates her knowledge, experience and nurturing nature.




Debra discusses the importance of vocal health in a professional performance setting. Proper coaching, healthy singing technique and good habits are imperative when you are singing on a regular basis for long period of time. The enormous amount of preparation and performance required in a platform such as the American Idol competition is just one extreme example of this.

I posted this video because I just love Debra Byrd's demeanor. Her personality is so warm and nurturing and you can see how easy it is for singers to trust her. The hardest thing about being a vocal coach is gaining that trust. The voice is a fragile thing and singers should be careful when working with teachers. I constantly strive to learn more and more about my craft so that my knowledge and sincerity can allow my students to trust me as well.

Hope you enjoyed this little video. =)