Music and Performing Arts

Each session will start with an introduction of the day's topic - one of the 'Essential Skills'.These have been identified by Matt, through more than 20 years as a professional singer of Swing Era/Big Band music, and form the basis of all his performances.

Monday - The Importance of accurate use of lyrics & melody

Tuesday - Dynamics - tension and release

Wednesday - Connection with the audience

Thursday - Body Language & Movement

Friday - Emotional content

Following the introduction and a group vocal warm-up, each singer then takes their 20-minute turn to work with Matt on their chosen song, focusing on the skill of the day.The other group members observe and provide feedback and moral support. Prior to the course, you will be contacted to discuss your song choice. We will ensure the music is prepared in the correct key, ready for us to start on Monday. It's not essential to learn the words of your song prior to the workshops, but it will enhance your performance if you do so.

On Friday, at 5.15pm, you'll get the opportunity to perform your song for an invited audience of family and friends. This is optional.

It can be nerve-wracking, singing solo in front of a group of strangers, but Matt makes the sessions relaxed and fun, so there's no need to worry. Singing is a great way of boosting self-confidence, and both physical and mental well-being.

Matt Ford

B.Ed (Hons)

About Matt

Award winning Matt Ford is widely regarded as the UK's finest Big Band singer, performing in over 2000 concerts with the likes of The Syd Lawrence Orchestra, BBC Big Band, John Wilson, CBSO, Halle, Northern Sinfonia, RTE and BBC Concert Orchestras. Matt has featured in no less than four BBC Proms, and has countless credits on both national (BBC Radio 2 - Friday Night is Music Night) and international radio (Radio France & RTE in Ireland). Matt made his US debut in 2013, performing in Hollywood's Royce Hall, and broadcast live from Berlin (with the Berlin Philharmoniker) in 2016 with Sir Simon Rattle. In 2019/20 Matt toured the UK with Martin Kemp in Big Band Broadway, and in 2021 recorded his own big band album Live from Abbey Road (Studio 2). Matt has performed in most of the UK's major concert venues including The Royal Albert Hall, Symphony Hall, Bridgewater Hall, St David's Hall, The Barbican and Royal Festival Hall.