Musical Theatre continues to grow and grow in popularity and the amount of aspiring Broadway stars grows with it: New York and London are like are filled with actors and singers desperate for that one lucky break. And with shows like the recent Broadway revival of Annie and the frankly magical Matilda, there are more young people taking voice lessons, musical theatre classes and drama camps then ever.
New York City is without question full of great voice teachers, dance classes and theatre programmes but as someone who received most of my music training in England what I miss (as both a student and a teacher) is the opportunity to earn qualifications and performance certificates through voice lessons. Wanting my students to be able to have this experience, I am very excited to be representing The University of West London’s examination Center in New York. From January of 2015 music and theatre students of all ages and ability levels will be able to take examinations and start earning their certificates. It will also allow any adult attending a conservatory program that is not accredited the chance to earn a universally recognised Diploma in their craft.
In Britain it is standard practice for students of most musical instruments/voice/acting to work their way through grades (1-8) – 1 being for the beginner – 8 representing A – Level standard (the English SAT equivalent that gets students into University). In fact a high score in a grade 8 examination can help a student earn points to gain entry into Universities and Music Conservatories. Once you have completed your Grade 8 (an achievement to be extremely proud of) there is then the option of studying for a Diploma which is recognised as being the equivalent of an undergraduate level of ability.
The University of West London is the top institution in England for these examinations and has an excellent reputation as well as some of the country’s most accomplished musicians judging the students. They are very much looking forward to forging this relationship with the wealth of talent that New York has to offer.
Now, taking an “exam” in singing is not as scary or laborious as it might sound: Studying for these exams are done in your private lessons so will not take extra time away from homework or other commitments. More importantly, they are a fun and are designed to recognise and reward personal achievement (whether you learn for fun or have your sights set on the Great a White Way!). Students get to put together a recital of songs they love, stage them, use costumes and perform for one judge. It is a great way to build confidence and have a real goal to be working towards – in return you get a certificate confirming your success.
The first crop of New York candidates are already busy preparing: choosing songs and learning dance moves, finding props – the opportunities for creativity are endless! The kids have all really embraced having a project to work towards and are having a great time rehearsing for their own one person show.
Learning to sing, and indeed these examinations, is not just for those with professional ambitions – the benefits (and just pure joy) that learning a musical instrument can bring to a child’s life are huge. Lessons develop confidence, self esteem, and discipline: the rewards of dedication and commitment to your instrument are easily seen in every stride and improvement. Jill Goldstein has certainly witnessed this in her daughter Ingrid Wernstrom (11):
“Ingrid has been taking voice lessons for a couple of years with Racheal. Ingrid adores her lessons. It is really the highlight of her week. I think the one of the things she loves about it is that she herself has seen a huge improvement in the quality of her singing. Her ability to project her voice and show emotions through her singing has come so far and she feels really good and proud of herself. I’m always happy to encourage my kids to do things that boost their self-esteem and make them feel good. For Ingrid, singing is that thing. The addition of practicing for the new examination system is an added incentive to work hard. Ingrid will be able to see her hard work paying off in performance certificates. And I think it is important for her to have a goal that she is working towards.”
Getting the chance to progress through these certificates played a huge role in my singing training and helped me to develop skills that have been invaluable in my own performing career – I can’t wait to see what the talented kids of New York are able to achieve. Oh, and the adults too – it is never too late to start those lessons you’ve always wanted!
Racheal Owens
Racheal Owens is the host of Good News England. Originally from Wolverhampton, England she is an actress, singer and teaching artist based in New York City
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