Reality TV talent shows and the formidable influence of Glee are just two of the factors that mean singing is dead popular right now. Whether you prefer karaoke, singalonga or proper formal harmonising in a church, work, community or show choir, this festival of vocal music in Covent Garden will pique your interest.
Twelve singers will perform unplugged, either a capella or with minimal accompaniment in the Paul Hamlyn Hall throughout the afternoon of 31 July, including extreme yodellers, South Indian Carnatic music, a female Tom Waits, Gaelic, Bulgarian and Tamil singers and Wagnerian bass-baritone John Tomlinson.
You can get involved with 'Extreme Karaoke' – an interactive aural playground – and catch screenings, workshops and talks as well.
In the evening, Motor Mouth Music sees a selection of the singers from the day joining electronic artist Andrew McDonnell in a improvised session which features looping, live sampling, duets, trios, choruses, transformations, experimentation and exhilaration, downstairs in the Linbury Studio Theatre.
Rather smashingly, a barbecue will be laid on for the fab Amphitheatre Terrace at 1pm – with wonderful views of Covent Garden Piazza as well as windows onto the costume rooms of the House. You can buy your bbq lunch when you book your ticket, for an addition £7 (£7.50 on the day).
Voices Across the World celebrates the uniqueness of the human voice and the diverse programme has been put together by Orlando Gough, ROH Associate Artist, maverick composer and director of vocal ensemble The Shout.
Voices Across The World happens on 31 July at Royal Opera House. Prices-Day & Evening Tickets £10, Combined Tickets £15 concessions available. Box Office: 020 7304 4000.
