Blog Week 7

Below is a link to an American Idol audition performed by Keith Beukelaer singing, "Like A Virgin" by Madonna.  American Idol judge Simon Cowell described Keith's performance as horrifying and, declares the contestant's singing ability as the worst in the world.  Keith's voice is extremely nasally and he appears to be singing out of his nose instead of utilizing his diaphragm to project his voice. Keith demonstrates a hunched over posture and he appears to be slouched over to one side, which leaves him unable to use his diaphragm properly.  Keith's diction is unclear and he drags out his words making it virtually unclear to identify the lyrics to this recognizable song he is performing.  In addition to all of this, Keith also moves around the entirety of his performance, including his head moving in all different directions, instead Keith should have his feet firmly planted, shoulders relaxed, and his head erect.  With all of these characteristics in mind I must say I have to agree with Simon Cowell's evaluation. This performer does not demonstrate any of the correct vocal techniques described to us in our notes.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNSsyZOPeq0

In contrast to the previous video, below is performance of singing demonstrating the correct vocal techniques provided for us in our notes this week.  The following performance is young opera singer and America's Got Talent contestant, Jackie Evancho.  Jackie is an exceptional opera singer, although she possess a natural talent beyond compare she also uses the proper form and technique of a singer. Jackie's posture is straight and for the most part her arms are down by her side.  Her feet are planted firmly on the ground and her head stays still and erect.  Jackie's facial features are also noteworthy, her eyebrows are raised and her mouth is rounded causing her diction to be clear as well as her syllables. It is obvious that Jackie sings using her diaphragm because her voice is projected well and her voice is very powerful. Jackie also has good breathing, it is staggered and almost unnoticeable.  Although she is young she appears to have years of experience under her belt, Jackie is well composed and truly a prodigy. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yf6UMg7JPEU

 

 

Rhythmic Poem

Introduction

Hi everyone! My name is Ally Funk and I'm from Winfield, West Virginia but originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana. I graduated from Winfield High School in June.  I'm currently attending WVSU as a freshman and I'm a member of the softball team here.  I am majoring in elementary education which is something  I've always wanted to pursue.

What I hope to gain most from this course is the ability to create lesson plans as well as learning more about music and teaching. I have a little bit of a musical background;  I was in the Fort Wayne Children's Choir from 2nd to 5th grade, which was a major part of my life, and yes we had to wear uniforms.

I then continued choir all through middle school and stopped after my freshman year of high school. When I was eleven years old I played the clarinet for a year and soon realized it wasn't for me but I did learn a thing or two regarding musical scales.  My only concern about this course is that I will annoy my roommates with my constant recorder playing late into the night. I'm very passionate about my Christian faith as well as helping and caring for others, particularly young children, which is what led me to major in elementary education. I also enjoy to playing softball, singing, as well as anything that pertains to art. On a personal note I am the oldest of four children and I have a pet cocker spaniel/poodle mix named Annabelle whom I adore.