1. Select a Suitable Text:
Choose texts that are poetic, have rhythm, and are engaging to the choir members and audience. Poems, historical speeches, or original texts can be suitable for a speech choir performance.
2. Group Participants Wisely:
Divide choir members into groups based on their vocal strengths and characteristics. This helps ensure a balanced sound. Assign sections of the text to different groups for harmony.
3. Teach Pronunciation and Clarity:
Work on clear pronunciation and enunciation so that the text can be easily understood by the audience. Emphasize consonants and ensure vowels are pronounced correctly.
4. Rehearse Intonation and Dynamics:
Intonation and dynamics play a crucial role in speech choir performance. Practice varying pitch, tone, and volume to create a dynamic performance that conveys emotions and meaning.
5. Use Gestures and Movement:
Incorporate meaningful gestures and movements that enhance the meaning of the text. Gestures should be natural and synchronized with the rhythm and flow of the speech choir performance.
6. Ensure Visual and Musical Balance:
Pay attention to how choir members are positioned to create visual balance. Work with the music director or accompanist (if present) to achieve musical balance and synchronization between the speech choir and any accompanying instruments.
7. Timing and Expression:
Practice the timing and coordination of various sections of the speech choir. Encourage choir members to express emotions through their voices and facial expressions.
8. Rehearsals and Feedback:
Regular rehearsals are essential to refine the speech choir performance. Provide constructive feedback to choir members on aspects like timing, projection, and stage presence.
9. Consider Staging and Lighting:
If performing on stage, consider the arrangement of choir members, use of props, and appropriate lighting to enhance the visual impact of the speech choir performance.
10. Engage the Audience:
Encourage choir members to establish a connection with the audience. This helps capture the audience's attention and immerse them in the performance.
11. Practice Memorization:
Encourage choir members to memorize their parts to enable more expressive and confident delivery during the performance.
12. Lead with Poise:
As the conductor, maintain good posture and use expressive hand and body gestures to guide the speech choir. Exude confidence and enthusiasm to inspire your choir members.
13. Provide a Clear Ending:
Ensure that the speech choir concludes with a strong and impactful ending that leaves the audience with a lasting impression.
By following these guidelines, conductors can effectively lead a speech choir and deliver captivating performances that blend both speech and music to create a unique and memorable experience for both the choir members and the audience.