module 5: august 18-21
VOPA
Circle Singing
the basics
Level: All levels
For: All voices
Language: English
Location: Studio 102, Amsterdam-Noord
Conductor: Joep Hegger
what is VOPA?
VOPA Circle Singing is a playful, accessible way of singing together where you don’t need sheet music. We build the music layer by layer: short rhythms, sounds, and melodic “loops” that you can join in on right away, while you find your own place within the whole. In just a few minutes, a rich, living sound emerges—from subtle grooves to full, multi-part harmonies.
The great thing is that both experienced and inexperienced vocalists are challenged at their own level. VOPA stands for Vocal Painting: with simple hand gestures and cues we guide dynamics, mood, structure, and variations, so everyone feels safe and can contribute creatively. The result is an energetic group flow where listening, collaborating, and having fun are central—and every session sounds different.
In terms of vibe and energy it can really go in any direction—here’s a great example of a more intimate improvisation:
improvisation?
In VOPA, improvisation isn’t “doing a solo,” but building something together: you’re given small, doable choices (sound, rhythm, interval, text) that become musical immediately because they land in the group. You learn to listen, respond, and vary—within enough structure to keep it safe, and enough freedom to keep it exciting.
It works for beginners because you can start with simple repetitions and clear call-and-response, without the pressure of “right or wrong.” Jazz singers can play with groove, phrasing, syncopation, and harmonic color within the loops. Classically trained singers find challenge in blend, intonation, dynamics, and articulation—with the added stretch of switching faster, daring to be freer, and still staying clear.
agenda
18, 19 & 21 August
10:00-10:45 group warm-up, vocal technique, vocal expression
10:45-10:55 break
11:00-12:00 rehearsing/learning the song
21 August
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
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Nothing is mandatory, and you don’t necessarily have to invite an audience.
But… experience shows that sharing your singing—whether with your own audience or with strangers—makes the experience much richer and more meaningful!
Naturally, the conductor will guide you in such a way that you feel minimal stage fright and can enjoy it to the fullest.
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Basic understanding of English is necessary—but feel free to ask your questions in Dutch or German.
more singing in the summer!
