Come and join us...
Here's the ever-growing 'Together One Voice' choir belting it out in the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh- thanks to Norma Burrowes for the great picture. We don't always go for big public production numbers like that one- only when the mood takes us; we sing for one another, and for joy.
I teach the Natural Voice Technique, pioneered by the inspirational Frankie Armstrong whose philosophy is, 'if you can speak you can sing', so throw away that old 'I can't sing' line, and experience the joy, the therapy, the thrill of singing with a group of lively, energetic people.
The songs are taught by ear without sheet music. I teach a mixture of songs and styles from around the world, ranging from simple chants, to more complex songs in three and four part harmony. Singing is good for the soul they say; it makes you feel great, it creates a wonderful feeling of community, and the joy of singing in harmony in a large group is second to none.
workshops, taster sessions
I also run singing classes and workshops for schools, community groups, day centres. Here are my latest projects
- Two year music therapy programme with New Horizons Mental Health group Enniskillen (completed May 2011)
- 'One World Singing' project (funded by Arts Council NI). Classes have been held in Drumragh Integrated College Omagh, Station Centre Omagh, Rouskey Development Association, Altamuskin Community Association (completed)
- Singing for Teens, Clinton Centre Enniskillen (until June 16)
- Singing for Parents and Kids, Erne Integrated Primary School, Enniskillen (ongoing)
I am happy to provide a taster session for interested groups- please get in touch.
feedback
Here's a happy chorus of feedback from my various choirs and projects:
When I go to Valerie's classes I forget about everything else and just sing. By the end of the class I am totally relaxed and have a huge smile on my face! -Kate Crane
I can feel tired before going and wondering if I want to go, but always after an evening signing I’m totally energised!
-Gusta
I am chronic asthmatic and the singing has shown me how to breathe properly and my voice has become stronger.
-Bridie McCullagh
Energises the body, heart and soul
-Jean Brennan
Singing together is amazing! Three (or more) part harmony, challenges, the odd bit of choreography, friendship, fun and laughter! I go home every week on a natural high!
-Kate Conway
The fun of singing with friends; the absolute joy when it all comes together. -Colm McGinn
The choir has brought me immense pleasure and real relaxation ( I sleep soo well on Thursday nights!!)
-Sue Hogg
She shares our joy of creating something beautiful together and as we master song after song, we become happier, healthier and more confident people
-Anja Rosler
Thanks folks, your cheques are all in the post.
hot summer singing news....
'Together One Voice' choirs:
The first round of 6 classes in Omagh and Enniskillen for 2012 are under way.
OMAGH CHOIR:
every Tuesday 7.30-9.30pm
starts on Tuesday June 14 (6 weeks)
Glenhordial Permaculture Farm. Directions
ENNISKILLEN CHOIR:
every Thursday 7.30-9.30pm
starts on Thursday June 9th
Higher Bridges Gallery, The Clinton Centre, Enniskillen.
To find out more, or to book your place, just email me. See you all there!
Playhouse L'derry
Singing for Fun taster workshop on Wednesday June 22 7.30-9.30pm. Age 16+
Come and join the fun.
Manorhamilton Leitrim
Another strong, lively new group- well worth the 100-mile round trip for me! Every Wednesday until June 15 in the Glens Centre.
Flatlake Festival
The massed ranks of 'Together One Voice' choir will be storming the Festival on Sunday June 5th at 1pm www.theflatlakefestival.com
£5000 raised for WaterAid
Here's some video highlights from the hugely successful Sing for Water night at Strule Arts Centre Omagh
Igude & Unison in Harmony I am a River & Bambalela
'Together one Voice' was joined by guests and friends and raised not just the roof, but £5,000 for WaterAid as well.
singing links
www.thenaturalvoice.net
www.singforwater.com
Contact:
