Here I Stand: A study in performance voice, investigating the application of choral analysis to the solo singer

Abstract

This Master’s thesis is an auto-ethnographical study in Performance Voice that has been crafted to reflect and strengthen my current roles in school, professional and community music. These include; Director of Choirs and full-time studio singing teacher at Saint Kentigern College, Musical Director and Conductor of Auckland Youth Choir, Freemasons NZ Opera Artist, member of Voices NZ and freelance tenor soloist. My understanding of my own instrument is critical to my own voice teaching, ensemble directing and vocal performance. I acknowledge that a large component of the music I encounter is centred around choral music and have selected music that represents composers who have contributed significantly to choral music and developing repertoire for voice teaching. My competence as a director, teacher and chorister are strengthened by my capability as a soloist across a diverse range of music.