How to Communicate with an Audience as Vocalist
When the lights come up and the music begins, all eyes are on the vocalist, no matter what type of group is performing. Whether it is a rock band, a classical trio or a gospel choir, the bulk of audience attention is placed on the individuals who carry the message of the music. Understanding how to connect with an audience as a vocalist is a key to a successful career.
Know What You are Trying to Say
Each and every piece of music has a purpose and is created to elicit a particular emotion in the audience. Singers must take the time to consider the message of any given piece and think about how to best communicate that message. A song of praise and jubilation should be delivered differently than a song of mourning or repentance. To convey the proper tone, singers must examine the meaning behind that particular piece of music. In short, in order for an audience to engage with a singer, that singer must be engaged with the music.
Singers Must be Like Actors
A singer can have the most beautiful voice in the land and have the skills to deliver a technically perfect vocal performance. However, if they are unable to convey a message to the audience through expression or movement, the performance will not reach its apex. Singers must bring an element of dramatic interpretation to their performance, not unlike the skills that an actor employs on stage or in a film. Unless a singer is performing a piece that he or she created, then to sing a song is to give life to another person's art. Singers who can embrace and strengthen their role, somewhat like an actor does, will reach a far deeper connection with an audience than those who miss the connection between singing and really communicating.
Don't Forget to Move!
Many singers become so focused on their vocal performance that they forget to move from their original position on stage. While focus is a good thing, it is also important to incorporate appropriate movement into the performance. In some settings, there is ample space to move freely, dance or interact with other vocalists or musicians on stage. That gives the audience something to follow as they enjoy the performance. In other settings, singers must remain stationary. That does not mean, however, that singers should stand motionless as they perform. Bring in some arm movement, sway or other physical motion to keep the audience engaged.
We invite you to join us at Ben Speer's Stamps-Baxter School of Music on July 7-14, 2018 to become part of the finest Southern Gospel music school. We are so excited to celebrate 80 years of musical excellence, and we look forward to welcoming you into our tradition!
