Practical Guidelines for Choral Singing in the Elderly

Abstract

Choral singing involves the performance of two or more vocal parts. This article summarizes the synthetic results of practical guidance for choral singing among a senior group, including three vocal parts: soprano, alto, and tenor. This practical guidance derived from the synthesized analysis of the melodic characteristics of the song "Let’s Play with Me". This song was especially composed for the elderly. The composer categorized the characteristics of harmonic melody into four types: (1) identical lyrics and rhythms at different pitches; (2) identical lyrics at different times and pitches; (3) distinct lyrics and melodies occurring simultaneously; and (4) disparate melodies that engage with one another. Choral singing poses challenges for novice groups, particularly for senior individuals without prior experience in this discipline. Consequently, the conductor had to identify various approaches to enhance the vocal skills of senior singers. During the choral singing practice of elderly singers from January to July 2023, it was determined that practical guidelines may be categorized into five concerns grounded in music theory and practice, including (1) rehearsing melodies using the solfeggio technique, (2) learning rhythmic accuracy, (3) studying lyric pronunciation, (4) practicing singing in two- and three-part harmonies, and (5) training auditory capacity while singing. These guidelines function as an approach for seniors and beginners to improve essential choral singing skills, establishing a basis for advanced skills enhancement.