Let's Play!

How much play is in your life? How often do you play and laugh with your students? Do you ever wonder why it is all so serious? 

It is well documented in research (and in most of our lived experiences) that as we get older we play less. The early years curriculum is jam-packed full of play, creativity and curiosity, but as we get older and move through primary school, secondary school, and beyond the focus on exams and ‘proper learning’ reduces and restricts us. But what might happen if we reverse this trend? What might be possible for us and our students if we revisit those early childhood experiences and just play?

Join us in Bristol for our next Summer Conference to explore these themes with a fun-filled weekend of games, activities, and friendship.

With playful activities and lots of singing scattered throughout the weekend, we also welcome key note speaker Dr Kittie Verdolini. Kittie is one of voice pedagogy’s most famous researchers, practitioners and conference speakers. Her inspirational research and person-centred vocal rehabilitation practices as a speech and language pathologist in the United States makes her a unique voice for AOTOS audiences. In her keynote, Kittie will be sharing her practical insights on the neuroscience of play and how this can influence and inspire us in our singing teaching. 

We are also fortunate to be joined by Jonathan James BEM. A resident of Bristol, Jonathan is best known for his contributions to music education. As a freelance music educator and conductor with a specialism in collaborative creativity, Jonathan will talk to us about his work facilitating creative workshops and how a creative curriculum can enhance our singing lives. His work is shaped by the belief that making music together has a profound social impact, often deeper and wider than we first realise. And that the effect is tripled when you bring creativity into the mix. Over the years he has developed ensembles and projects that explore this particular potential: how can a long-term creative musical intervention change lives?

No singing teaching conference would be complete without opportunities to enjoy wonderful singing performances. It is our privilege to host a lecture recital by AOTOS Honorary Life President, international Baritone Roderick Williams. Roddy will treat us to a performance of some of his favourite songs from his latest projects, and share how he uses creativity and play in developing his programmes. 

Alongside our keynote guests, we are delighted to be joined by a host of AOTOS members, who will share their skills, insights and interests with us through a series of workshops. Topics and themes covered will include Dalcroze, Using Accents to Develop Character, Early Years’ Approaches Throughout the Lifespan, Jazz Improvisation, Vocal Effects, Vocal Health for Singing Teachers, Circle Singing and more.  

The centre-piece of the conference is a Vocal Playground. On Saturday afternoon, you are invited to join us to dip into a range of small group workshops, talks, research poster presentations and spaces for networking, conversations and play. More information will be coming soon, including details of how you can sign up for workshops and plan your fun!