The Art of Crooning: Engaging K-12 Students in Vocal Expression
The world of music is as diverse and vast as the human spirit which creates it. One captivating vocal expression that often goes underrepresented in educational settings is crooning – a unique singing technique that combines elements of harmony, smoothness, and emotion. Today we explore how to teach students about crooning, an engaging way to enrich their vocal education.
Crooning started gaining popularity during the early 20th century with artists such as Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Nat King Cole. They captivated listeners with their velvety voices and story-driven songs, creating a distinguished niche in the music world. To help K-12 students explore this intriguing vocal style, consider incorporating these techniques and activities into your curriculum.
Develop Vocal Technique
When teaching crooning focus on establishing a strong foundation in breath support, resonance, and phrasing. Encourage students to sing with relaxed and open throats while maintaining proper posture. Practice warm-ups that focus on pitch accuracy, smooth legato lines, and proper diction.
Analyze Songs for Storytelling
A significant aspect of crooning is its strong emphasis on storytelling through lyrics. Select renowned crooner pieces such as “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra or “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole. Instruct students to listen closely to these tunes, analyzing how the singer uses phrasing, dynamics, and vocal color to communicate emotion.
Compare Styles
Expose your students to various crooners across different time periods and genres – from the classic charm of Bing Crosby to contemporary artists like Michael Bublé or Harry Connick Jr. Engage them in discussions about how the various artists have similarities or differences in their approaches to crooning.
Create Crooner-Inspired Performances
Encourage your students to apply what they’ve learned about crooning techniques in solo or group performances. Have them select a song from the Great American Songbook or another modern piece, and apply crooning principles to reinterpret it in their unique way.
Collaborate with Music and Literature Classes
Connect with music history or literature teachers to provide interdisciplinary learning experiences. Students can explore crooning from a historical perspective, discuss its influence on popular culture, and examine song lyrics as a form of storytelling.
By incorporating the art of crooning into your music curriculum, you will not only introduce students to a rich history of vocal expression but also allow them to discover new ways to express themselves musically. In combining technique, storytelling, and personal interpretation, your K-12 students will enrich their understanding of the human connection to music while refining their own creative capabilities.