Hi Paul,

I am the organiser of the Can't Sing, Won't sing workshop in Derby.

It could indeed be construed as a cynical attempt to take £20 off you and tell you you have a nice voice, But ... !

That's not what it's about!

Vivien Ellis has an international reputation as a performer of mediaeval, renaissance and traditional music and has absolutely no interest in patronising people! I first met her about fourteen years ago at a voice and movement workshop for non-singers and went on to do another three afer that. I moved from being a most excellent mimer to having piano lessons, singing lessons and even daring to sing in a group. I wouldn't say i am the most confident person in the world even now, but at least I don't have a pan-technicon of hang-ups about it any more!

Vivien's premise is that singing is part of being human and it is the choral tradition of Western society that has destroyed singing for many people. For her, song was once part of the working life and social life of a community and there was no such thing as a non-singer. The purpose of the workshop is to change people's beliefs about their voices, to gain confidence and to begin to enjoy singing for its own sake.

Are you tempted? Are you still cynical? Would you like to know more?
Tel no. is 01335 324530 or e-mail: annienoble2004@yahoo.co.uk There are places available. And it's a bargain at £20!!

Cheers, Annie