Zado California Arts Council Grant 2020-21
Artists in Communities: "The Artistry of Balkan Singing"
PARTICIPANT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Balkan Vocal Workshops (via Zoom) - Dragana I Slaveja and Zaspo Janko
January 9, 16, and 30, 2021
January 9, 16, and 30, 2021
Before the workshops
1. I have already registered for a workshop. When will I get the link for the Zoom meeting?
Kitka, in cooperation with Zado, is now overseeing the registration process for the workshop series. Those who have already registered (either with guidance from Zado or from Kitka) should have received an order confirmation from Eventbrite soon thereafter (subject line: “Order Confirmation for The Artistry of Balkan Singing with Tzvetanka Varimezova & Michele Simon”). If you did not receive such a message from Eventbrite, please first check your SPAM or junk mail folders; if you still do not see one, email kitka@kitka.org as soon as possible.
2. Where will I find the Zoom meeting link on Eventbrite and the link to the meeting materials?
Using the Order Confirmation email from Eventbrite (see Question 1), click on the red “View the event” button inside the email, then follow these steps:
a) log-in to the event on Eventbrite (e.g., Jan. 9, 2021 workshop), using the email address you used to register for the workshops. To log in, click “Sign in” in upper right corner and enter your email address and password. (If you do not have an Eventbrite account, you will need to create a new and free Eventbrite account, from the same Sign In link in the upper right of the screen).
b) Once you are logged in to Eventbrite, on the right of the resulting screen for the workshop, click “Access event” (button on right)
c) The page you will next see displays Zoom link, together with meeting ID number and required passcode. Below that you will see a link to the Google drive where all workshop materials are stored. We will use the same links for all three workshops.
3. Will I need a passcode for the Zoom meeting?
Yes. See Question 2c.
4. What kind of equipment do I need to participate in the vocal workshops?
The workshops will take place in Zoom. It may be easiest to participate on a computer (desktop or laptop), equipped with either speakers and a built-in mic (as in a web camera) or a headset with a mic. Zoom also works well on an iPad. Additionally, you also have an option to use the Zoom app on your smartphone though you can see fewer participants.
5. My schedule won't permit me to attend all three workshops. What happens if I miss one?
The workshops will build on each other, so we highly recommend that you attend the entire series. If you cannot make all three, please register for those you expect to attend. You will be able to access the materials via the workshop registration confirmation email (see Question 1).
6. When will the materials for the workshops be available?
Michele and Tzvetanka have the materials for the January workshops ready and are available. You will find the link to the Google folder containing them when you click “Access Event” from Eventbrite page (see Question 2b-c). Michele and Tzvetanka are still working on finalizing the materials for the February virtual choirs. These materials will be available shortly.
7. What workshop materials will be available?
The materials for each song will include source recording, score with translation, vocal part map, pronunciation guide, workshop agenda, and tips for successful zoom meetings.
8. I am not sure which song I should concentrate on learning (Zaspo Janko or Dragana I Slaveja). Can you advise?
We welcome all to learn and sing both songs! If you’re undecided, the following may help in making choices:
Zaspo Janko is the easier song in 4/4 time. It is a good choice for new and/or casual singers, particularly if you don’t read music. The song has 3 parts. The middle part is the melody. The words and pronunciation are easier than those of Dragana I Slaveja.
Dragana I Slaveja is more complex musically in 11/16 time and is longer. Its arrangement has 10 separate parts. It is a good choice for more experienced singers who want a challenge and/or who already know the song. Casual singers may want to consider learning and singing just the “All Singers” sections of the song and then see if they want to try more.
These workshops are for you. You can choose.
9. I am not sure which part I should sing (high, middle, low). Can you advise?
Zaspo Janko - If you are new to singing, or are not sure of a part you usually sing, we recommend that you listen to the recordings and see which part feels most comfortable for your vocal range (has no strain) and go with that choice. If more than one part is comfortable, pick whichever you prefer.
Dragana I Slaveja - You can choose to just listen along if you are fine with focusing on Zaspo Janko. If you’d like to dip your toe into Dragana, you can focus on parts labeled “All Singers.” Do those well, and you will give it power! Or you can add one of the 2 Choruses. If you already know the song or are advanced and want to show off your technique, add one of the Duets. And if you love key changes, you can add the Quartet.
These workshops are for you. You can choose. For more information and/or a preview to the parts for the upcoming Virtual Choirs, audio guides for each Virtual Choir part are provided in a Google Drive folder once you register for the workshop(s).
10. I don't have any previous formal experience in reading musical notation. Can I still participate in the workshops?
Absolutely! These workshops present folk songs and, traditionally, such songs were learned by ear rather than by reading scores or sheet music. For those who can read music, they may appreciate having access to the printed music.
During the workshops
11. Will there be warm-ups in the workshop?
There is a wonderful 15-min. warm-up recording (video) in the materials folder by Michele. Please try these out before joining the workshop if at all possible, so we are already warmed up when we start!
12. Will the workshops be recorded and archived?
The workshops may be recorded for the purposes of documenting activities related to the CAC grants that fund them. However, the recordings will not be archived online.
13. How can I prepare for the workshop?
After registering and receiving the links to resources, we suggest that prior to the workshop you access materials from the Google drive folder and do the following:
For registration questions, contact kitka@kitka.org
1. I have already registered for a workshop. When will I get the link for the Zoom meeting?
Kitka, in cooperation with Zado, is now overseeing the registration process for the workshop series. Those who have already registered (either with guidance from Zado or from Kitka) should have received an order confirmation from Eventbrite soon thereafter (subject line: “Order Confirmation for The Artistry of Balkan Singing with Tzvetanka Varimezova & Michele Simon”). If you did not receive such a message from Eventbrite, please first check your SPAM or junk mail folders; if you still do not see one, email kitka@kitka.org as soon as possible.
2. Where will I find the Zoom meeting link on Eventbrite and the link to the meeting materials?
Using the Order Confirmation email from Eventbrite (see Question 1), click on the red “View the event” button inside the email, then follow these steps:
a) log-in to the event on Eventbrite (e.g., Jan. 9, 2021 workshop), using the email address you used to register for the workshops. To log in, click “Sign in” in upper right corner and enter your email address and password. (If you do not have an Eventbrite account, you will need to create a new and free Eventbrite account, from the same Sign In link in the upper right of the screen).
b) Once you are logged in to Eventbrite, on the right of the resulting screen for the workshop, click “Access event” (button on right)
c) The page you will next see displays Zoom link, together with meeting ID number and required passcode. Below that you will see a link to the Google drive where all workshop materials are stored. We will use the same links for all three workshops.
3. Will I need a passcode for the Zoom meeting?
Yes. See Question 2c.
4. What kind of equipment do I need to participate in the vocal workshops?
The workshops will take place in Zoom. It may be easiest to participate on a computer (desktop or laptop), equipped with either speakers and a built-in mic (as in a web camera) or a headset with a mic. Zoom also works well on an iPad. Additionally, you also have an option to use the Zoom app on your smartphone though you can see fewer participants.
5. My schedule won't permit me to attend all three workshops. What happens if I miss one?
The workshops will build on each other, so we highly recommend that you attend the entire series. If you cannot make all three, please register for those you expect to attend. You will be able to access the materials via the workshop registration confirmation email (see Question 1).
6. When will the materials for the workshops be available?
Michele and Tzvetanka have the materials for the January workshops ready and are available. You will find the link to the Google folder containing them when you click “Access Event” from Eventbrite page (see Question 2b-c). Michele and Tzvetanka are still working on finalizing the materials for the February virtual choirs. These materials will be available shortly.
7. What workshop materials will be available?
The materials for each song will include source recording, score with translation, vocal part map, pronunciation guide, workshop agenda, and tips for successful zoom meetings.
8. I am not sure which song I should concentrate on learning (Zaspo Janko or Dragana I Slaveja). Can you advise?
We welcome all to learn and sing both songs! If you’re undecided, the following may help in making choices:
Zaspo Janko is the easier song in 4/4 time. It is a good choice for new and/or casual singers, particularly if you don’t read music. The song has 3 parts. The middle part is the melody. The words and pronunciation are easier than those of Dragana I Slaveja.
Dragana I Slaveja is more complex musically in 11/16 time and is longer. Its arrangement has 10 separate parts. It is a good choice for more experienced singers who want a challenge and/or who already know the song. Casual singers may want to consider learning and singing just the “All Singers” sections of the song and then see if they want to try more.
These workshops are for you. You can choose.
9. I am not sure which part I should sing (high, middle, low). Can you advise?
Zaspo Janko - If you are new to singing, or are not sure of a part you usually sing, we recommend that you listen to the recordings and see which part feels most comfortable for your vocal range (has no strain) and go with that choice. If more than one part is comfortable, pick whichever you prefer.
Dragana I Slaveja - You can choose to just listen along if you are fine with focusing on Zaspo Janko. If you’d like to dip your toe into Dragana, you can focus on parts labeled “All Singers.” Do those well, and you will give it power! Or you can add one of the 2 Choruses. If you already know the song or are advanced and want to show off your technique, add one of the Duets. And if you love key changes, you can add the Quartet.
These workshops are for you. You can choose. For more information and/or a preview to the parts for the upcoming Virtual Choirs, audio guides for each Virtual Choir part are provided in a Google Drive folder once you register for the workshop(s).
10. I don't have any previous formal experience in reading musical notation. Can I still participate in the workshops?
Absolutely! These workshops present folk songs and, traditionally, such songs were learned by ear rather than by reading scores or sheet music. For those who can read music, they may appreciate having access to the printed music.
During the workshops
11. Will there be warm-ups in the workshop?
There is a wonderful 15-min. warm-up recording (video) in the materials folder by Michele. Please try these out before joining the workshop if at all possible, so we are already warmed up when we start!
12. Will the workshops be recorded and archived?
The workshops may be recorded for the purposes of documenting activities related to the CAC grants that fund them. However, the recordings will not be archived online.
13. How can I prepare for the workshop?
After registering and receiving the links to resources, we suggest that prior to the workshop you access materials from the Google drive folder and do the following:
- Warm up using Michele’s Warmup video.
- Review the songs as much as possible, familiarizing yourself by following along with the score. Watch the Pronunciation videos. The part you want to sing may come to you! Bring the printed scores to the workshops.
- 02 Zaspo Janko folder
- Score, Source Recording, & Pronunciation Video
- 03 Dragana I Slaveja folder
- Score, Source Recording, & Pronunciation Video
- 02 Zaspo Janko folder
For registration questions, contact kitka@kitka.org
Virtual Choir Projects - Dragana I Slaveja and Zaspo Janko
February - March 2021 submissions
February - March 2021 submissions
1. Update 2-10-2021 - Dragana I Slaveja – Guide Conductor Videos: Lyrics Corrections
Videos 6-11 (GROUP II and Source GUIDE Conductor Videos):
Please note on videos 6 through 11 the following lyrics corrections:
00:19 – "trendafil" (instead of "tendafil")
02:19 – "kriltsata" (instead of "krilsata")
2. Update 2-10-2021 - Dragana I Slaveja – Guide Conductor Videos: For Dragana I Slaveja, in bar 21, second voice, are the first three notes sung as G F# F# or sung as "F# F# F#?
For bar 21, Quartet 2nd Part, of the Dragana I Slaveja score, the first three notes should be sung as G F# F#.
3. What equipment will I need?
A device with a camera and microphone, and an additional device you can hear the music through ear buds or headphones while you sing, especially helpful for staying together. Additional details will be provided shortly in recording and submission instructions.
4. When do I need to submit my recording(s) for the virtual choir project(s)?
You need to register in order to access the music and materials. February 1 through February 28 is the submissions window when Zado/Kitka will accept your video or audio recordings for either or both songs. February 28 is the final submission date for both songs.
5. Will there be technical help if I run into unforeseen glitches?
Yes. Fuller details on the mechanics of recording and submitting your recording will be provided shortly.
6. Will we have to memorize anything?
No. When recording, if possible, have the notes in your head so that all you need to look at are the words (prevents paper rustling).
7. How will we know how to pronounce the words for the songs?
There are separate guide recordings by Tzvetanka and Michele just on pronunciation. It is helpful to print and mark your music lyrics according to their guidance, in any way that helps you remember while singing.
8. Will there be a video of someone conducting to help us stay together and smile?
Yes. For Dragana, Tzvetanka conducts a guide video and for Zaspo Janko, Michele conducts a guide video.
9. How will we know if the audio/video we submitted is good enough technical quality? If needed, can we re-do and re-submit it?
We welcome all singers to submit audio/videos in whatever way they can and within our recording and submission instructions. We will accept only one video or audio recording from each registrant. You’ll get a confirmation that it was received. If you’re concerned about your singing, don’t be! You’ll be amazed at how well we all blend into a great sound once voices are assembled into a virtual choir!
10. If I can’t get the video done or sent, can I submit an audio?
Yes. We will provide further guidance on how to transfer and submit the files.
11. Will there be tips on how best to create the video?
Yes. Guidance will be provided shortly.
12. Where is the recording program on my phone? Is it an app I have to download? Is it free?
More information will be provided in the recording and submission instructions.
13. When will the final virtual choir videos be posted online?
We hope to have them posted by August 2021. We are waiting for copyright clearance, but will post them as soon as possible and send participants an email with the links to the videos. Thank you for your patience.
For program questions, contact zadosings@gmail.com
For registration questions, contact kitka@kitka.org
Videos 6-11 (GROUP II and Source GUIDE Conductor Videos):
Please note on videos 6 through 11 the following lyrics corrections:
00:19 – "trendafil" (instead of "tendafil")
02:19 – "kriltsata" (instead of "krilsata")
2. Update 2-10-2021 - Dragana I Slaveja – Guide Conductor Videos: For Dragana I Slaveja, in bar 21, second voice, are the first three notes sung as G F# F# or sung as "F# F# F#?
For bar 21, Quartet 2nd Part, of the Dragana I Slaveja score, the first three notes should be sung as G F# F#.
3. What equipment will I need?
A device with a camera and microphone, and an additional device you can hear the music through ear buds or headphones while you sing, especially helpful for staying together. Additional details will be provided shortly in recording and submission instructions.
4. When do I need to submit my recording(s) for the virtual choir project(s)?
You need to register in order to access the music and materials. February 1 through February 28 is the submissions window when Zado/Kitka will accept your video or audio recordings for either or both songs. February 28 is the final submission date for both songs.
5. Will there be technical help if I run into unforeseen glitches?
Yes. Fuller details on the mechanics of recording and submitting your recording will be provided shortly.
6. Will we have to memorize anything?
No. When recording, if possible, have the notes in your head so that all you need to look at are the words (prevents paper rustling).
7. How will we know how to pronounce the words for the songs?
There are separate guide recordings by Tzvetanka and Michele just on pronunciation. It is helpful to print and mark your music lyrics according to their guidance, in any way that helps you remember while singing.
8. Will there be a video of someone conducting to help us stay together and smile?
Yes. For Dragana, Tzvetanka conducts a guide video and for Zaspo Janko, Michele conducts a guide video.
9. How will we know if the audio/video we submitted is good enough technical quality? If needed, can we re-do and re-submit it?
We welcome all singers to submit audio/videos in whatever way they can and within our recording and submission instructions. We will accept only one video or audio recording from each registrant. You’ll get a confirmation that it was received. If you’re concerned about your singing, don’t be! You’ll be amazed at how well we all blend into a great sound once voices are assembled into a virtual choir!
10. If I can’t get the video done or sent, can I submit an audio?
Yes. We will provide further guidance on how to transfer and submit the files.
11. Will there be tips on how best to create the video?
Yes. Guidance will be provided shortly.
12. Where is the recording program on my phone? Is it an app I have to download? Is it free?
More information will be provided in the recording and submission instructions.
13. When will the final virtual choir videos be posted online?
We hope to have them posted by August 2021. We are waiting for copyright clearance, but will post them as soon as possible and send participants an email with the links to the videos. Thank you for your patience.
For program questions, contact zadosings@gmail.com
For registration questions, contact kitka@kitka.org
|
|
|
|
|
|
This project was made possible through funding and support from: California Arts Council, Shira Cion, Kitka Women's Vocal Ensemble,
National Endowment for the Arts, Sacramento Big Day of Giving, Sacramento Region Community Foundation Giving Edge,
James E. Shoemaker & Jan Volkoff, Zado Eastern European Vocal Ensemble, and 95 individual donors.
National Endowment for the Arts, Sacramento Big Day of Giving, Sacramento Region Community Foundation Giving Edge,
James E. Shoemaker & Jan Volkoff, Zado Eastern European Vocal Ensemble, and 95 individual donors.
We are incredibly honored to have sung with all of you, to make beautiful music together, and to honor the Balkan singers, composers, and music that have inspired our group and many others. Thank you!
