There is too little singing in music lessons, says Gerald Wirth. The artistic director of the Vienna Boys’ Choir wants to make learning to sing easier with an app.
Singing, whether alone or in a group, has a positive effect on children and young people. “Active music-making promotes self-confidence, strengthens cognitive skills and fosters personality development,” says music educator and composer Gerald Wirth. “Unfortunately, there is little to no singing in many schools anymore because many teachers are not comfortable with it.” The artistic director of the Vienna Boys’ Choir is therefore launching the Sawti app – to offer children and adults who are just starting out themselves, or who want to work with the next generation, a playful way to learn how to sing with confidence.
“It’s just a great way to improve your singing in a fun way,” enthuses Thomas Buchstätter of Vienna-based PhonicScore, which specializes in interactive music apps and programmed the new app. It is free in the first step, fun and especially recommended for beginners. Already the free version offers many features and includes the first four levels. In the full version all levels and more exercises are unlocked.
Find voice pitch – and feedback while singing in real time
Sawti is easy to use, an accessible tool for everyone to learn to sing properly and hit the notes better. The playful approach is motivating and the real-time feedback has gaming character. Simply download it on Google Play or the App Store, plug the headphones into your smartphone, and after a recording to determine the pitch of your voice, you’re ready to go.
A sound is heard – now you. Re-sing. Does the voice pitch fit? How good was I? The first step is to find your own voice. Then more difficult exercises and melodies. Nine levels. Singing training with a difference. The app reflects the results in real time – notes hit, intonation, the rhythm – allowing for focused learning and progress. Those who stick with it will soon be able to sing a song about it. The app offers several to choose from, from the bell yodel to Old MacDonald had a farm. There’s even a certificate waiting at the end.
“My Voice” in Arabic
The idea for the app came from an aid project funded by the EU and the Austrian Ministry of the Interior. “Sawti” (pronounced Sauti) is the name of My Voice in Arabic. Together with Caritas, the Vienna Boys’ Choir helped facilitate music lessons with refugee children for elementary school teachers in Jordan. They should also be able to develop their talent.
Singing lessons empower young people
In general, the transformative power of music on young people is undeniable. Being able to see musical progress encourages perseverance and determination. Music plays a role in building their self-confidence and developing talents. In today’s fast-paced world, it offers a unique retreat and a way to express yourself, overcome fears and conquer self-doubt.
One of the most remarkable features of the music is its versatility. It offers a wide range of genres, instruments, and styles that allow young people to express themselves and explore their individual identities. When young people learn to play an instrument or sing in a choir, they not only develop technical skills, but also learn to express their emotions and thoughts through music. This form of expression promotes self-confidence by showing young people that their voice counts and is heard. Who knows, maybe you’ll become a singer too? Learning to sing well can be quite simple.
