Singing: a Cappella for Beginners

Learn a cappella Singing with our engaging workshop series in Sydney!

Learning to sing a cappella is an enriching journey that transcends the simple act of vocal performance, embedding itself deeply into personal growth, social connectivity, and cognitive enhancement. At its core, a cappella singing nurtures vocal prowess and musicality, pushing singers to refine their pitch, harmony, and rhythm with a precision that only voice-alone performances demand. This discipline sharpens the ear, tuning into the subtle nuances of music and fostering an intimate understanding of complex arrangements.

a cappella singing is a multifaceted experience that nurtures the voice, the mind, and the spirit. It challenges individuals to grow musically and personally, fostering a sense of community and shared achievement. Through the pure, unaccompanied voice, singers explore the depths of human expression and connection, making a cappella singing a profoundly transformative art form.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this a cappella singing workshop series, you should be able to:

• Use vocal techniques essential for a cappella singing.
• Harmonise effectively with fellow singers.
• Interpret and perform a variety of songs in an a cappella repertoire.
• Build confidence in solo and group performances.

Course content

What will be covered in this a Cappella singing workshop series?

Session 1: Vocal Foundations

• warm up - breathing exercises - using your diaphragm
• discussion and listening to various a cappella singing - solo, duos to large groups
• Vocal resonance exploration
• first foray into singing - as soloists for those who want to
• first song introduction

Session 2: Harmony Basics

• warm up and song
• first harmonies - 2 part, 3 part
• introducing vocals as instrumental parts - bass, percussion etc

Session 3: a cappella Repertoire I

• warm up and song
• looking at different genres -jazz/r&b/soul/spiritual/choral/c&w/popular…
• choosing a repertoire 
• singing solo and back-up

Session 4: Group Dynamics

• warm up and song
• dynamics of a song and the individuals in the group - timing/pitch/power/fun
• finalising repertoire and rehearsal

Session 5: Performance Preparation

• warm up and song
•  working as an ensemble
• stage presence techniques
• rehearsal for group presentation

Session 6: Showcase and Feedback

•  warm up and song
• group and solo presentations
• feedback from tutor and peers
• celebrations of performance

Intended audience

Who is this course for?

This workshop series is suitable for beginners and intermediate singers who are passionate about a cappella singing and want to improve their skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Course venue

Rozelle Campus
2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039 (corner of Gordon Street & Victoria Road)

Course materials

Learning resources

• Handouts with vocal exercises and song lyrics
• Audio recordings of workshop repertoire for practice

What to bring to class

• Water bottle
• Comfortable clothing for movement
• Notebook and pen for taking notes
• Smart phone for recording