MAJOR WORKSHOPS

The Festival of Voices is Australia’s premier celebration of the vocalist, the power of song and the magic of shared singing experiences, nurturing artists and participants across a range of styles and disciplines.  The 2012 Major Workshop Series is designed specifically to challenge and engage singers across all genres, by bringing the best international and national artists to lead workshops. A unique learning experience for individuals and choir members of many abilities: wonderfully inspiring, often challenging but always enjoyable.

Praise, Protest, and Purpose.

Spirituals With Eric Dozier (Canada )

Eric is a gospel great whose music is characterised by intricate harmonies, stylized arrangements and spirited lyrics; a musical elixir the New York Times acclaimed as “rousing”. Join Eric in songs of joy and sorrow, hopes and fears - songs about resistance and escape, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Glorious Sounds.

Choral Voices with Lydia Adams (Canada)

In a coup for the Australian vocal community, we are bringing to the festival Lydia Adams, undoubtedly one of World’s most distinguished choral conductors. She possesses extraordinary musicianship and a true passion for the choral art form: her expertise, unique approach and dedication make her a vibrant and inspiring musical force.

Stomp, Holler and Sing II. 

Contemporary Folk With Moira Smiley and VOCO (USA)

The hit of the 2011 festival, Moira Smiley and VOCO return to redefine harmony singing with their special blend of body-stompin’ percussive movement, with joyous, magnificent, and hair-raising harmonies. A powerful combination of folksong with hard-driving Americana, mixed with crooked eastern European dance and jazz.

Extraordinary Four. 

Contemporary A cappella with the Idea of North (AUS)

Aria award winning harmonic sensations The Idea of North return to Hobart to lead a celebration of the music that hit the charts.  A dynamic exploration of the contemporary in four part harmony, with repertoire that appeals to all, this is a boppy upbeat workshop for singers of all backgrounds.  As James Morrison so aptly puts it, ‘a cappella is sometimes thought of as being minimalist, but when you can sing and entertain like the Idea of North, a band would just get in the way’.

Workshop participants perform at the Finale Concert on Sunday 15th July at Hobart’s Federation Concert Hall. Early bird prices start at $149. All adult courses are accredited educational opportunities with the University of Tasmania and, as such, are recommended for those 16 and over.

YOUNG VOICES

12-15 July 2012

A workshop programme for young voices 10 -16 years that offers a wonderful mix of learning, performance and excursion, particularly popular with touring and school choirs. Places are limited and 2011 sold out, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

YOUNG AUSTRALIANS VOICES OF ACHIEVEMENT

Conductor Julie Christiansen and Composer Paul Jarman

A very special exploration through song the inspirational stories of young Australians, as we celebrate mountaineers, magicians, refugees, artists, dancers, adventurers, community leaders and aid workers who have achieved personal triumph. ‘Step into the Unknown’ with Hobart local adventurer Andrew Hughes and ‘Sail Home’ with solo sailor Jessica Watson. We salute our young Australians.  Julie was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her development of children’s and youth choirs at state and national level.  Julie is artistic director of the acclaimed Voices of Birralee. Paul Jarman is an esteemed Australian composer, performer, educator and musical director.