Page 38 - CJNov_Dec24

On the Voice

opinions that shape their own performance choices). Remember the “five Ps”: proper preparation
Providing advanced notice and written guidelines prevents poor performance. The strategies dis-
(e.g., targeting a specific section of a song or identify- cussed earlier require planning and practice. This is
ing goals such as memorization, text study, or pitch/ especially true in the case of establishing a relationship
rhythm accuracy) can maximize successful outcomes with a medical specialist before one gets sick, but estab-
for all involved. lishing ensemble practices and expectations of substi-
tute leaders throughout the concert season is beneficial
Use amplification. Ideal speaking voice loudness as well. In addition to rehearsing, these leaders can as-
should resemble casual one-on-one conversation. Prop- sist in preparing handout materials and alternate as-
er use of personal amplification can ensure directors signments. Using the above strategies before one gets
provide clear verbal instruction and vocal modeling sick has value beyond establishing good vocal habits
without increased strain. Using amplification is appro- and offers leadership opportunities within your pro-
priate in any state of health. gram. Regular and prior practice of these techniques
makes them seem less novel; singers will see them as
Stay home…really. The temptation for a director a necessary part of their routine (as opposed to seeing
who is often “at the center of it all” to manage a fever them as disruptive).
and suppress symptoms via medication is real. How-
ever, if the time off is available and there is a substi- “Precautions” are worth the effort. Widely rec-
tute that you trust, taking a day or two off at the height ommended steps for preventing respiratory infection
of an illness can have a tremendously positive impact include practicing optimal hydration, diet, and sleep
toward rest and recovery. Individuals and professional hygiene; establishing regular physical exercise; and
networks like a state chapter of ACDA and AGO may managing stress. Immunizations are effective methods
be able to organize substitute lists for community and for preventing and minimizing the severity of flu and
church choirs in advance. This collaboration can foster COVID-19. During cold and flu season, providing ma-
collegiality and communication between organizations, terials to execute optimal health hygiene (such as hand
develop a trusted support network, and provide alter- gel and masks) and advocating for—and demonstrat-
natives to canceling rehearsal. ing—best health hygiene practices (such as fully cover-
ing your mouth when you cough and sneeze and fre-
quent handwashing/sanitizing) is critically important.
Several sources promote the use of vitamin C supple-
Some ments during cold and flu season as a means of illness
8
prevention and severity reduction. Echinacea and el-
great little derberry are natural supplements that have a history of
use for boosting the immune system during cold and flu
numbers season. While current research has not revealed any ill
9
effects of the use of elderberry, it should be noted that
for your prolonged use of echinacea (greater than eight weeks)
can have an immunosuppressant effect that is the op-
10
choir. posite of its intended use.
Vocal health matters all the time—not only
when we are sick. Creating a “choir culture” where
singers are encouraged to see themselves as individual
athletes who impact the entire team’s performance
can allow for ongoing and varied discussions about
Toll-free: 1.877.246.7253 • sales@musicfolder.com
healthier choices for healthier voices. Just as serious
www.colbertcreative.com
(604) 681-5386
36 CHORAL JOURNAL November/December 2024 Volume 65 Number 4