Developing sound-quality and choral blend in adult community choirs through weekly warm-ups and technical exercises

Abstract

The use of warm-ups and repertoire-based technical exercises is strongly associated with choral rehearsals. If used in a purposeful and planned way they can make a meaningful contribution to the development of choral sound quality and blend in choirs. Choral conductors – particularly those of amateur community choirs working with amateur singers with little or no musical background and exposure – often feel frustrated by slow progress with choral sound quality and blend in their choirs. Furthermore, research indicates that the value of choral warm-ups and technical exercises during weekly rehearsals are often misunderstood or trivialised by choral conductors. Using a qualitative research paradigm, a case study was undertaken to explore the perspectives and practices of a group of experienced South African choral conductors who subscribe to the value of warm-ups and technical exercises. Data collection strategies included semi-structured interviews, observations and a facilitated focus group using concept mapping as a data collection technique. An innovative strategy formed part of the facilitated focus group session, utilising concept mapping to generate responses and ideas. Three main findings emerging from the data analysis assist in gaining a holistic understanding of the research problem. These include the importance of a planned and preventative strategy of choral warm-ups and technical exercises for the promotion of choral sound quality and blend; the advantage of meaningful collaboration between the conductor and the choir; and the impact of a systematic regime of choral warm-ups and technical exercises with clear objectives to improve overall choral sound quality.