Learn to sing onstage with Arts North

If you want to unleash your inner rock star, be the next Canadian Idol, or just want to improve your stage presence, Arts North has the perfect set of classes for you.

The five-week program, taught by Andrew Lowe at Arts North, will teach participants methods to improve singing and stage performance. The sessions will cover the basics of breathing, pitch, and tone, as well as stage performance abilities like vocal styling, mic technique, and stage presence.

"It's slightly different to conventional singing lessons," explained Lowe, in a press release. "We are offering a contemporary vocal class and giving students an opportunity to sing through a PA system. We use karaoke tracks and lyrics to make it easier."

At the end of the five sessions, students will receive their own demo CD.

The program runs 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturdays from Nov. 7 to Dec. 5, and costs $75. It is open to people ages nine and up.

Lowe trained for the stage at the Guildford School in England and at the Banff Centre in Alberta. In addition to his experience as an actor and singer, Lowe has developed and held several workshops to assist performers of all ages.

Arts North is also holding a free demonstration class and open house on Oct. 24, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The multi-disciplinary studio is located downtown.

For more information on Arts North and the karaoke class, go to www.artsnorth.ca, or phone 222-4ART(4278).