One of the key skills a director needs to develop is the ability to listen to their chorus, identify any issues and work out a plan to fix them. This module is titled Analytical Listening to emphasize the fact that the director must listen in a discerning fashion to really analyze the quality of the sound. Once an issue has been identified - whether it is synchronization, notes or blend - the director will be in a better position to suggest the skills that are needed to address it.

Of course, the solution might be in something the director sees - physical alignment or tension in the body - but this module focuses on what the director hears.

Analytical listening is a lifelong learning pursuit! This module provides a framework for starting on that journey, and examples to test your listening skills.

2.1 - The Framework

This article looks at the factors that contribute to musical problems typically experienced by vocal groups. From there, potential solutions will more readily become apparent.

2.2 - Test Your Skills

This article contains audio examples demonstrating a variety of different vocal issues. There is also a sample test for you to try out your analytical listening skills.

The final evaluation will assess your understanding of the factors that contribute to (or, conversely, disrupt) an ensemble’s sound, and includes audio clips with questions about what you hear.

Resources

The performance level guidelines for each of the four judging categories are available on the Sweet Adelines International website.

The Judging Category Description Book (which includes a Guide to Vocal Skills as well as more information about each of the judging categories) is available on the Sweet Adelines International website.

Contributors for the articles in this module were:

● Kim Vaughn and San Diego Chorus

● Valerie Taylor

● Julie Starr

● Joanne Oosterhoff

● Sweet Adelines International Education Department