Hi Mary, thanks for entering this thread. And thanks, Frank, for your additional comments. Mary, I wouldn't even charge you $10 for the course, I'd think of hiring you as a guest instructor. You're right, it's probably a bit too intellectual, but what do you expect from an ex College Prof.? You have a beautiful voice and nice delivery, and probably are a natural singer with innate talents. I guess I should decide exactly who I am aiming this at. I am thinking more of the solo rather than group singer - someone who wants to sing folk songs, but needs some guidance. I'm not sure this would be for the complete beginner, certainly not the accomplished or advanced singer.

I don't subscribe to the school of thought that folk music should sound rough and untutored, such as the hayseed who sings slightly off key with a poor-sounding voice, or the guitar player who, after trying to tune his guitar, says "that's good enough for folk music." No, it isn't good enough! - it would sound so much better and more pleasing if the guitar really was in tune, and the singer had a more pleasant-sounding voice.

I've heard people at song circles, sessions, or open mics try to sing who weren't very good, but could become better with a little guidance and encouragement. But I don't know teaching such a course would result in better song circles, sessions, or open mics. Probably not, but I might at least feel a little better that I am doing something rather than complaining, and hopefully a few people would benefit by singing better and enjoying it more.

Maybe I am a bit too ambitious. But why not try?

Cheers, S. in Seattle