Chops for Singers with Cleveland Watkiss
Cleveland Watkiss is a highly versatile, award-winning British vocalist, composer, and improviser known for his extraordinary vocal range and innovative approach to singing. He’s Professor of Jazz Voice at Trinity Laban.
Musical Style and Abilities:
He's renowned for his remarkable vocal flexibility, seamlessly moving between genres including jazz, reggae, soul, funk, and experimental music
He employs extended vocal techniques, including overtone singing, scat, and various sound effects that push the boundaries of what's possible with the human voice
His ability to improvise vocally is particularly celebrated in jazz circles
Career Highlights:
He's worked with numerous prominent jazz musicians and has been a significant figure in the British jazz scene since the 1980s
He's collaborated with artists like the Jazz Warriors and has performed internationally
Recognition:
Best Vocalist, London Jazz Awards, 2010
Best Vocalist, Wire/Guardian Jazz Awards
Jazz Vocalist of the Year, Parliamentary Jazz Awards, 2017
Ivor Novello Award for Innovation 2021[12]
Watkiss is often described as a "vocal acrobat" and continues to be an influential figure in pushing the boundaries of vocal performance in jazz and beyond.
Cleveland will be coming to Devon in November to teach a 4 day immersive Chops for Singers Course bridging vocal improvisation training and music theory development, for intermediate-advanced singers.
This is a Level 3-4 series. Chops for Singers courses blend music theory study with vocal improvisation practice. Cleveland will teach intermediate - advanced aspects of rhythm, melody and harmony, and help us to sophisticate our improvisation with them. There’ll be a participant cabaret on the Thursday night (not open to the public), and Briony and Cleveland will do an improvised concert at MIC (our venue) on the Wednesday night.
Here’s information about Staying in Buckfastleigh if you’re coming in from out of town.
Sessions run 10-5 daily with an hour for lunch. Often the MIC cafe is open on site.
Register by 10 November to confirm your place
Price
Tier 1: £550
Tier 2: £450
Tier 3: £375
There are 2 ‘name your price’ places for folks who can’t afford tier 3. They go on a first come first served basis.
Bundles: Bundle 3 modules together for a 10% discount, or 5 modules together for a 15% discount. Your bundle can focus on one pathway or mix and match. Email Dan to arrange this: info@brionygreenhill.com
Please select your tier in integrity. You will not be assessed.