acapellaAcapella
refers to the art of unaccompanied singing. It
began in the church with Gregorian chant and has progressed
over the centuries through many stages. In 20th century America
it has been known through barbershop, doo wop
and various choral ensembles. Barbershop is known for its four
part harmonies and doo wop for inventive harmony parts which
may imitate other instruments as well. Doo wop also gave rise
to the Persuasions, a group that personified
vocal music in the 1960's. African acapellaIn Africa
singers commonly imitate animals and even
thunderstorms with clapping hands and finger clicks.
The melodies in African acapella are particularly rich and
satisfying. Where to find acapella?You may begin singing acapella with a school choir or small group of your own. I would recommend the college or community choir especially if it is a madrigal group or other unaccompanied group. A madrigal is an acapella style from the 16th and 17th century, very common to find in college courses. It is can be very complex and fun to sing. Even if it is not something you are really attracted to it is a good way to begin to sing acapella in a group environment.There may be barbershop or doo wop or even African style acapella groups in the area that you live. You can form a group of your own if you have the desire and can find others that share that same desire. There are also groups that support the acapella form such as the Barbershop Harmony Society and Chorus America. Sharpen your earAcapella sharpens your ear more than your
vocal abilitlies. You absolutely have to listen to the other
voices and respond because there is no musical reference for
your tone center. If you can't find it, you are stuck. If you
go flat it will show, no doubt. | ||||||||||
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