> Secondly, he's got it into his head that he can't do it, he's > panicking and losing all his breath on the opening note. (for those > familiar with the show, we're doing Godspell and he's not coping > with "Prepare Ye..."). Of course he thinks he can't manage it, so he > doesn't perform, so he thinks he can't manage.... It's a vicious > spiral. Any hints on increasing this lad's confidence would be great. > He's around 15-17 years, and is about the best male we have in the > group.
On a practical level, if you're near to production, is trying to change his vocal technique _now_ really a good idea ? Maybe just accepting the nasal (but best option that you have) sound for the production and then giving him some tuition afterwards, if he's open to it. Maybe look from a directorial perspective rather than a purely musical one. Do you want a relaxed singer with dodgy technique but who can get the notes or one who is convinced he can't sing because the MD keeps telling him his techbnique is wrong ? I'm not massively knowledgable on Godspell but the part is a screeming high tenor isn't it ? Maybe if you stop him pulling up his larynx and squeezing his throat (or whatever he's doing) you'll find he's _really_ a bass. Then you'll be well stuffed ! (English expression, probably needs translating into something rude off-list.) Maybe now is the time to start saying "Yes that's much better." "You've the best voice we've had for ages, I wouldn't have given you the part if you couldn't do it." "Well sung, I really enjoyed your rehearsal today."
Kevin
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