Cabaret workshop

What is the course about?

These lively workshops will help you develop your own cabaret sequence. Participants will learn how to build and present a short programme of songs with spoken introductions, and how to segue from speech into singing with confidence and flair. For this workshop you must be able to prepare your songs accurately in advance and perform them from memory, the workshop focus will be on how to engage with an audience before your songs, plus some tips on musical style and interpretation.

What will we cover?

- Repertoire choices for cabaret style, building mood and contrast
- Preparing and delivering spoken introductions/anecdotes
- Sequencing your songs to create a theme to your cabaret
- Performing styles appropriate to cabaret
- Working with backing tracks recorded by an accompanist – segues from speech to song.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Feel confident building a short programme of (two or three) songs
- Know more about cabaret performance and famous cabaret performers
- Write and perform your own spoken introductions
- Have a greater understanding of how to transition from speaking to singing.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

For this class you should already have significant singing or acting experience, and a relatively secure technique. You must be vocally confident and willing to try new techniques and ideas in front of other class members in a supportive workshop environment. You will be asked to watch and discuss aspect of other classmates’ performances.

You do not need to sight-read music, but you must be able to independently learn new repertoire and be confident singing in front of the class. To this end, an intermediate understanding of musical notation is required.

You must also be able to follow written and verbal instructions in English and engage in class discussions.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The class begins with a short vocal warm-up but you may wish to allow more time before your class if you need more warm-up time than this lesson allows. Each class follows a practical workshop format discussing individual presentations and you will work closely with the professional accompanist in class. Discussions will take place for work in progress and exchange of ideas. You will be expected to choose your own repertoire and also to try new suggestions made by the tutor. You will need time to work on your repertoire at home and regular practice is essential to make good progress.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please source your own copies of the music you wish to sing and bring copies to the class. You may also find a folder and notebook useful, as well as a pencil for marking your music.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You may also like to consider one of our Sing music theatre workshops, other workshop classes, or complementary classes in our Drama, Dance and Speech section. For more information, please read our blog: Choosing a singing class at City lit which lists our full sequence of singing classes or contact the music department for further advice: music@citylit.ac.uk.