Broadway Voices

Lawrence, Head of Singing at Laine Theatre Arts, and Dom, Professor of Musicology at the University of Sheffield and Visiting Professor of Film and Theatre Music at Gresham College, will lead a dynamic and practical exploration of vocal technique and performance, tailored specifically for those looking to strengthen their skills across a broad range of styles. Covering classic Golden Age repertoire through to contemporary musical theatre, they will provide you with tools to develop both your voice and your storytelling craft.

You will engage in focused warm-ups, breath control exercises, and techniques to enhance range, resonance, and clarity. Emphasis will be placed on healthy singing practices suitable for the varied demands of musical theatre repertoire, including legit, belt, and mixed voice techniques.

During the course you will work on songs from different eras and styles – ranging from the lyrical and structured Golden Age (such as Rodgers & Hammerstein and Lerner & Loewe) to the pop-infused sound of modern composers like Pasek & Paul, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Jason Robert Brown. Sessions will focus on text interpretation, phrasing, and emotional connection to material, encouraging you to bring authenticity and character to your performance.

• Vocal warm-ups and breath control
• Introduction to healthy vocal technique
• Confidence building
• Range expansion and vocal placement
• Stylistic differences in musical theatre genres (Golden Age, Contemporary, Pop-Rock)
• Text and lyric interpretation
• Connecting emotion to vocal delivery
• How to work with your pianist
• Final showcase-style performance for peers (informal)

By the end of this course you will leave with improved vocal control, a stronger connection to and understanding of material, and increased confidence on stage.

We will work in a masterclass setting, a supportive and interactive environment where you learn not only through individual coaching but also by observing your fellow course participants. You will have the opportunity to work one-on-one with the tutors in front of the group and receive tailored feedback on vocal technique, interpretation and performance.

Acting through song will also be a key component, allowing you a chance to explore intention, subtext, and stage presence. Individual coaching, group work, and performance feedback will help you refine your vocal and dramatic delivery.

The course culminates in an informal performance or sharing session, giving you the chance to apply your learning in a supportive environment.

You should prepare two contrasting musical theatre songs in advance. Preparing songs (not necessarily by memory) will allow you to focus on refining interpretation, vocal technique, and character work during the sessions rather than learning new material on the spot. You are encouraged to choose two contrasting pieces – such as a classic Golden Age ballad and a contrasting up-tempo number – to ensure a well-rounded exploration of style and storytelling during the course.

You will need to bring your music, a recording device, a water bottle and a notebook and pencil for writing down tips!

You will be asked to provide details of your chosen songs and upload the sheet music – in the correct key – in advance of the course.