Lecture 28

Rehearsal Techniques for School Choirs

Making the most of every minute

Learning Objectives

At the end of the lesson, learners will be able to: (1) plan a rehearsal with timed segments; (2) diagnose a tuning or blend problem by ear; (3) use gesture and modelling instead of repeated talking.

Lesson Discussion

A good rehearsal is mostly preparation. Learners plan a twenty-minute rehearsal for a short piece, then run it with the class as the choir while the teacher stays silent. We practise diagnosing problems quickly: is it pitch, blend, diction, or energy? The lesson ends with feedback on the rehearsal itself — clarity of gesture, use of time, and how much was actually sung.

Instructional Materials

Slide deck · Rehearsal plan template · Short piece for the class to sing · Diagnostic checklist · Timer