module 1: july 7-10

Ain’t No Sunshine


the basics

Level: Beginner
Arrangement: SATB
Working Language: English
Locatio: studio 102, Amsterdam-Noord
Conductor: Joep Hegger


why we’re singing this

“Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers, from their 1971 debut album, is a textbook example of groove (an irresistible rhythmic pull) — even though it’s essentially a listening song.

And inside that movement, while singing it, you can feel the burning longing that Withers captured so unbelievably well in both lyric and melody.

Below is an original recording:

the arrangement

…is designed so that the main melody travels through the different voice groups. No one has the leading role—which means everyone does: we truly sing it together, as one voice.

We start with a repeating groove and a rich harmony that lets you immediately feel the song’s atmosphere. Then we alternate that with the verses and the iconic bridge, where “I know” is repeated no fewer than 26 times—followed by a fantastic climax.


agenda

July 7, 8 & 9

10:00-10:45 group warm-up, vocal technique, vocal expression
10:45-10:55 break
11:00-12:00 rehearsing/learning the song

Juli 10

10:00-10:45 group warm-up, vocal technique, vocal expression
10:45-10:55 break
11:00-11:30 dress rehearsal
11:45-12:00 concert! You can invite whoever you like.

questions & answers

  • Singing with Joep is an absolute blast. He’s bursting with energy, inspires, makes exciting arrangements, and hears everything.

    —Arno Schans

  • Joep is a passionate and highly skilled voice coach. He gets people to reach with their voice what they never thought was possible.

    —Marcia Luyten

  • Singing with Joep was one of those rare experiences in which you are immediately aware that you are in the hands of a true expert.

    —Rory Matthews

  • Joep is an amazing vocal coach, and fantastic personality. Always sparkling with contagious enthusiasm and positive energy, he makes you love your own voice.

    —Vladka Meduzova

more singing in the summer!