Reflection: Week 4: February 6 – February 10, 2012

Topic (Theory Class): Singing assessment

Reflection Question: How do you understand the learning of jazz through your assessment task done?

Speaking about my singing assessment, I really feel satisfied with what I have done although I only got 8 marks out of 10. I do so because I didn’t have specific time out of music class to practice for singing assessment. During some time before the assessment, I sometimes still forgot the lyrics because I didn’t manage to memorize it in particular time. I only relied on the practices done as I kept repeating the lyrics and started to memorize the lyrics. Moreover, at the last minutes my partner decided to do the assessment with the other student so that I had to do my assessment alone. At first I didn’t like it when my partner decided to do so but I thought that it was a good opportunity to practice and gain my confidence.

Through the assessment task done, I understand that jazz can be even applied in singing. I found some songs which have jazz melodies and have lyrics to sing (which are I Got Rhythm, What a Wonderful World, and When the Saints Go Marchin’ In) because at first I only know the instrumental jazz songs. I am also inspired to look for the other jazz songs which has its lyrics so that I can sing the songs.

Instrument Class

I did the preparation for singing assessment with my partner by the help of my instrument teacher. My instrument teacher suggested us to sing on key note 0. However, I felt that singing on key note -1 is way easier. Nonetheless, even though during the assessment I sang on the key note -1, my theory teacher said that I would perform better if I sang on the key note 0. 

Practice Videos
1. Blues scale (1st practice)

On the video above, I tried to play blues scale for the first time at home. I didn't do it well. I often pressed wrong notes and also missed some notes especially Bb. I think it was just because I was too nervous because usually I can play blues scale well at the instrument class. I just have to make sure that I can stay calm on the next practice.

2. Blues scale (2nd practice)

 On the video above I still practiced playing blues scale to improve the last time I practice it. Compared to the last practice, the mistakes I did on this practice is fewer. However, I still can't play it on the same tempo because sometimes I have to stop to remind myself what notes I have to play afterwards. I believe that if I practice more, I will get used to it and will able to play blues scale fluently.