PETALING JAYA: Everyone can sing with a little training, says classical singing instructor Hiew Chee Yuen. 

“Anyone who can talk and breathe can sing. How well they sing will depend on how well they pitch their voice and carry a tune, and these are skills that can be learnt,” he said. 

Hiew will conduct a short course on singing skills at the MCA Subang Lifelong Learning Centre, Mutiara Damansara. The short course is part of the MCA Lifelong Learning Campaign (LLL). 

In the course, “aspiring” singers will be introduced to the fundamentals of singing, which include musical note reading and voice control. 

Hiew, who has published two books on classical music, specialises in classical singing styles. He says classical singing is a formal style and once learners master the basic skills, they will be able to sing almost anything. 

The singing course will be conducted in Chinese and English, and learners will be taught to sing various Chinese and Western songs. 

The course can also build learners’ confidence, Hiew said, and those who wanted to pursue singing could take up individual vocal training. 

He nevertheless warned that although singing skills could be honed, not everyone could be a great singer. 

“The problem is that when people start thinking that they can hold a tune, they can be Number One singers. Everyone can learn to sing but to be a great singer, you need talent,” he said. 

The centre will also organise a talk on blogging, titled Introduction to Blog Design, on Feb 25, which will be conducted by web designer Sean Tan. Those interested will get the opportunity to pick up more blog-writing and designing skills in future short courses at the centre. 

For details, call 03-2161 8044 or visit www.lll.net.my.

 
Source: The Star 11-02-2008