Recording as a self-analyzing tool in vocal practice

Abstract: Recording as a self-analyzing tool is something that has been researched and appraised within the musical field. This study will examine how one-take recordings at the end of personal vocal practice sessions can be utilized as an implement for self-analyzation which then will serve as basis for planning personal practices and future goalsetting. Two vocal teachers were interviewed for further insights and ideas, which then also birthed the idea to create a practice sheet where each part of the project was documented. The practice sheet includes three sections: recording analysis, planning and goalsetting and practice journal. A four-week practice period was planned where each practice would end with one-take recordings of the two songs that were chosen to be rehearsed, thoughts and experiences were immediately recorded in a practice journal. Recordings were analyzed and based on the analysis, a plan and new goal settings for the coming practice were formed. This way of structuring practice may help to work and practice independently as a singer and performer.