MIOnline - Resources
'I Want to Break Free' Virtual Big Sing
At Music In Offices all our musical activies are now online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our conductors and teachers have been working hard to keep all sessions going via video call platforms. Now we want to combine forces by creating a combined virtual choir!
The basic idea is that by recording ourselves, we can once again hear what we sound like together as a choir. We hope this can be a nice exercise for those of you missing your fix of choral singing. For this project, we have chosen ‘I Want To Break Free’ by Queen and have a specially arranged version for us.
So your task is to record yourself singing either your voice part or the main tune. Our Conductor Alexander Jaye has put together all the guides for you to learn the music and we’re really excited about bringing together all your voices.
How can I learn the piece?
Links to Resources
Firstly start by downloading the score of our arrangement. Our Conductor Alexander has then recorded all that you’ll need to learn your part. You can start with the Audio Tution Guides and then practice singing your part with the Singalong Guides.
If you’d prefer to learn the main tune over your individual part that’s fine too. There is a score marked with where the tune is and you can also practice along with the SATB singalong guide. Do have a look and a listen before recording as it differs from the original record in a couple of places!
Recording Guide
As you may be unsure of how to record yourself, we have put together a handy list to help!
Things you will need:
– A way to view the music: You may print out the score, or should you wish to save paper, you can view it on a tablet or a computer.
– A way to view and listen to the conductor video: This is a prepared video with Alexander guiding you along to a prerecorded mockup of the arrangement. Make sure you are able to watch and listen to this while recording yourself so we can syncronise you with everyone else! You will also be able to hear the clicks in and your starting notes at the beginning.
– Headphones: Make sure you are listening to this using headphones, we only want to hear your voice on the recording.
Virtual Conducting Video Guide
Use this video while recording your part.
Once you’re set up you’ll need a way to record yourself on video. We’ve put together a few pointers which might help when getting that perfect take!
– Phone: You can record yourself by using the video function on your phone! If you choose to do this prop up the phone on books as opposed to holding it, it gives a much better sound for the final product.
– Computer: If you have a computer at home with a camera or webcam, you can record using that.
– Orientation: Try to record yourself in landscape for the video, if it’s not possible don’t worry as we can always switch it around after.
If you are worried about recording yourself singing on your own, here’s some helpful advice!
– Multiple Takes: You don’t have to send the first take! In fact most singers enjoy doing about 3 and then sending their favorite.
– Imagine yourself in a choir: You may worry about not sounding good enough on your own – but remember this will be sounding as if you are in a choir with your voice blending with many others. Your best is definitely good enough.
How to upload your track
Timeline of Events
Once you have completed your recording it’s time to send in your singing. Just follow these two simple steps.
– Name your file with Name/Voice Part/Choir or Company
– Upload your file via WeTransfer.com, once you receive the link send it to rob@musicinoffices.com.
We’ll let you know once it’s been received.
4th of June 19:00
Join Alexander for an hour of guidance on your parts. You’ll also be able to ask any questions that you might have regarding the recording process.
Submit Your Recordings by the 19th of June
Online Viewing Party of the Final Performance
25th of June 19:00
Come and watch the premier of the finished product!
