Unity Church of Fort Worth

Years ago when I began to learn metaphysics, my world became less frightening and more full of meaning as I saw beneath the surface of things to glimpse a larger purpose, a grand design. Every experience became richer to me as I began to explore its deeper import.

This has carried over into my work life as a singer and voice teacher. I once taught voice full-time in the public school system; then for many more years privately. After years in Unity, I find that everything I teach in music has a metaphysical truth underneath. See if you can spot the parallels – the rich metaphors inherent in these voice/life lessons.

In learning to use one’s voice to sing with maximum effectiveness, there are really only three major things to consider: breath, resonance, and diction.

#1 Breath.
Almost any vocal problem, whether it be singing flat or sharp, lack of volume control, trouble reaching high (or low) notes, even poor tone quality, can be addressed by learning how to breathe more deeply and fully, and then becoming consciously aware of the breath in every moment of singing--taking in more with each breath, and effectively employing the musculature that helps us manage that breath. Most of us do not take advantage of the free, abundant breath available, using just 30-40% of our lung capacity, and employing ineffective muscle control. When we learn to be aware of the breath, and then to make better use of it, (rather than to ignore it until we run out--then panic)— we begin to sing with intention, purpose, and control.

As you read, try substituting the word “life” for “breath,” and “live” for “sing.” The breath is literally spirit, life, inspiration, given to us in much greater abundance than most of us ever fully realize.

#2 Resonance.
In singing, this refers to where we intentionally focus the breath to make maximum use of the principles of sound. If you sing into a closet full of clothing, where sound is absorbed, you will get quite a different quality than if you sing into a tiled bathroom, where the sound has reflective surfaces to bounce off of and resound (re-sound). The same principles – absorption vs. reverberation – apply when we focus the sound before it comes out of our mouths, in the resounding chambers within our bodies. If you want to sing a particular note – low, high, or medium, you must find the place in your body where it resonates most fully, then focus that note in that specific place. If you want to make smooth transitions from one end of your range to another, you must keep all of the resounding chambers open, even while focusing in one particular area. Then, when moving from note to note, there is a subtle shifting of focus rather than an abrupt jump from one place to another.

When I speak of focusing “sound,” think of focusing “energy” or “intention.”

#3 Diction.
Diction is simply the clear and proper enunciation of the language we sing in. If your diction is not good, then no matter how beautiful your tone quality, you will not be able to communicate meaning—you may even obscure it. Communicating effectively creates sympathy and connection with your audience.

Think of language as action, knowing that no matter how great our intention, action is required to bring us into conscious union.

I hope you have fun with this little exercise, and that it may lead you to a richer experience of singing and living!

“Music is your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom. If you don’t live it, it won’t come out of your horn.”
-Charlie Parker

Specialized performance groups of varying sizes, performing on an occasional basis on Sunday mornings and for concerts, special events and services.

Unity Singers is a volunteer choir with membership of 60-70, performing approximately once per month, singing 3- and 4-part harmony on a broad range of musical styles. With no audition required to join, we ask that members commit themselves to being at all rehearsals and performances. We open to new members twice per year, in January and August. Rehearsals are Tuesday evenings from 7:30-9:00, with childcare provided.

Gospel Ensemble sings traditional and contemporary gospel music and is comprised of performers from Unity Singers.

Women's Art Ensemble sings more traditional sacred and classical music, comprised of members of Unity singers and accompanied by Larissa.

JAMM (Joyful Awesome Music Makers) is our children's choir. It is open to children from 2nd through 8th grades, and is directed by Gigi Cervantes. The children rehearse for 5-6 week periods on Sunday mornings 10:15-11:00 in the Jammatorium portable building, to prepare for specific performances throughout the year. Contact Gigi or Youth and Family Ministry Director Sherry Knutson for more information.

Unity Handchimers is our handchime choir. Directed by Peter Lufkin, the handchimers perform on an occasional basis at services and special events. Unity Chimers is open to anyone interested in makiing music in a loving group atmosphere. No music reading or expereince is required. The Unity Chimers meet on Tuesdays at 6:00 pm in the Sanctuary. For more information, call Peter Lufkin at 817.455.2439.

Additional Musicians and Regular Guests:

David Tipps, guitarist and vocalist, has played professionally since 1969. A solo performer and member of several notable Metroplex rock 'n' roll bands over the past three decades, including Legacy and Odzar, David has been an active member of Unity Church of Fort Worth for over 20 years.

Gigi Cervantes has appeared as a professional actress on many local stages including Circle Theatre, Stage West, and Casa Manana. She has also been a member of the teaching staff at Casa Manana's Theatre School for several years. In addition to performing theatrically, Gigi is also an accomplished singer-songwriter. In 2002 she won the songwriting contest at the University of North Texas, and was one of the select few to perform at the prestigious Kerrville Folk Festival. Gigi has two CD's original music, "One of Those Years" and "Nothin' But Angels." Find her local performance schedule at www.gigicervantes.com.

Jay Adkins, is the principal keyboardist for Unity's contemporary music, leading the group in jazz, country, gospel, pop and rock performances throughout the church year. Jay is also musical director for the performing troupe Kids Who Care, and teaches music at Tarrant County College. Jay has been featured as musical director/accompanist at Circle Theatre, Theater Arlington, and Fort Worth Theater, and is also an accomplished composer with a CD of music for meditation.

Brent Dacus is a drummer extraordinaire. A touring, performing and studio musician for more than 25 years. Brent has played with national touring companies of broadway musicals, plays regularily at Bass Hall, Casa Manana, Stage West and other area theaters. He drummed on national

Michael Kelley plays guitar, bass, and sings in our gospel and rock ensembles, as well as being a member of Unity Singers. Michael is a science teacher at Crowley High School and can be seen at live music venues around town, especially McHenry's Pub.

Pat Trimble is a guitarist, bassist, keyboard player and singer with our gospel and rock 'n' roll ensembles and the Unity Singers. A life-long musician with a penchant for playing the "blues," Pat also has a masters degree from Brite Divinity School.