Altered Version 2: Details
Problem: The pitch drops throughout bars 5 and 6 (d - s - s - d).
Possible solutions:
- When teaching the piece, the conductor uses exercises involving the first and fifth degrees of the key (B flat and F, do and so), including the higher do, B flat, ensuring that the singers develop a strong feeling and musical memory for these main ‘pillar’ notes.
- The conductor emphasises the need to maintain momentum through to the end of the melody, and uses fluent, energetic gestures to encourage this.
- The conductor asks the singers not to let this final phrase ‘sit down’ but to keep it alert, sensitive, and connected to the overall tonality.