We caught up with Ali Burns as she prepares for her workshop in Ardfern on Saturday 11th November. Here’s what she told us.
Describe your teaching style in 3 phrases
1. I like to keep things moving and keep the whole room engaged with the process.
2. I like to include lots of tips for getting a great sound that people can take away and think about after the event.
3. And I like having a laugh with the whole group
What will you be teaching?
Some favourite songs I’ve come across this past year: some high-energy gospel; something dark and soulful – nothing too difficult but special and satisfying to sing!
What has been your favourite singing moment?
So many I almost don’t know where to start! I love the moments in workshops when the whole room ‘gets it’ and we sing our hearts out. I love it when I’m conducting something very moving with my choir in a concert and it ends and there’s a long silence before applause as the whole audience is wrapped up in what you’re performing. But a memorable favourite is – I was once part of a team that hosted a huge singing event in the Peak District. The venue had a ‘no alcohol’ rule so one night about 150 great singers went down to the local pub to sing. It was soooo packed you could hardly lift your drink to your mouth. I was sandwiched tight for the whole night between two of the bass singers from the awesome a cappella group Black Umfolosi who were at the event – every single bass note reverberating through me!! Heaven.
You can book a place on the workshop here.