Choral Insights Day
A review of the day by Angelika Sivyer
On Saturday 9th May Taunton Choral Society held its very first Choral Insights Day. We were delighted to welcome 36 people (including 11 non TCS members) to the day.
Although the name is quite suggestive of what might transpire, I was astonished at how powerful the day was. Vocal coach Eloise gave us a thorough and clear insight into vocal health. For me it went beyond a mental appreciation to a bodily awareness. I loved blowing bubbles and singing an octave at the same time. For the first time I really understood what our Musical Director Ed Goater has so often meant by singing from below the diaphragm. Amazing how higher notes can be produced using abdominal muscles.
Ed also helped us to translate mental grasp into physical action. I was in awe of his ability to throw up different balls at varying times...and catch them ...and keep an eye on our reactions at the same time.
The music we sang was Samuel Taylor Coleridge's Viking song and The Lacrimosa from Mozart's Requiem. With all the insight we received on a somatic level, the notes became a physical and emotional expression. The mental involvement served that purpose. I think it was not only me that was moved to tears singing the Mozart piece. And I feel that's how it should be! Without the heart, musical perfection can become a dry experience. Not only do we need to keep physically hydrated but emotionally also!
We are so lucky to have such an accomplished and also energised director in Ed. I am still full of notes and feelings from the day.
On a practical note, The United reform Church is a great venue. That and the refreshments ( a special thank you to Pen Hollin who unfailingly produces wonderful home baking and swings straight into action) helped sustain everyone through a most successful day.
Choral Insights Day
Saturday 9th May 2025
United Reformed Church, Central Taunton TA1 3PF.
TCS are excited to announce our Choral Insights Day!
A workshop day of choral singing and personal vocal health advice.
With Choral Director Edward Goater & Vocal Health Coach Eloise Routledge.
Fun music to learn on the day!
Advanced Choral Technique
Detailed Vocal Development Practice
Vocal Health Q&A
1-2-1 sessions
and of course, some wonderful singing & refreshments!
Light refreshments available, please provide your own lunch.
£25 (£20 for TCS members)
1000-1030 Welcome & Registration with refreshments
1030- 1045 10 min warm-up, quick sing-through
1045-1130 Session 1a
1130-1215 Session 1b
1215-1300 Lunch
1300-c.1310 Elly talk - Vocal Health & Aging
c.1310-1430 Session 2 with 1-2-1 mini-consultation
1430- 1500 Informal Performance
For more information about the work that Eloise does, you can visit her website:-
If you are interested in joining us for the day we would ask you to pre-register so that we have some idea of numbers for catering.
You can register your interest with your name and voice part here
We hope also to be able to accommodate a few walk ins on the day, depending on numbers.