Dn the cozy setting of a soundproof studio in the Atabal concert hall in Biarritz, around ten enthusiasts, ranging from amateur musicians to professional singers, gathered on Thursday June 20 for an atypical experience: a dedicated masterclass with extreme singing, hosted by Jean-Baptiste Le Bail, singer of the group Igorrr.
The artist begins…
Dn the cozy setting of a soundproof studio in the Atabal concert hall in Biarritz, around ten enthusiasts, ranging from amateur musicians to professional singers, gathered on Thursday June 20 for an atypical experience: a dedicated masterclass with extreme singing, hosted by Jean-Baptiste Le Bail, singer of the group Igorrr.
The artist begins by recounting his impressive journey and his knowledge accumulated through his many years of experience. Then it’s time to tackle the fundamentals: breathing management, vocal saturation and organization of work in the studio and on stage. “Music is a barrier to reality,” he explains. She animates me, guides me and protects me. » This statement seems to resonate with participants, who see him not only as a technical mentor, but also as a source of inspiration.
Between technology and spirituality
Contrary to the expectations of some, this masterclass is not limited to traditional singing exercises. Jean-Baptiste Le Bail highlights the quasi-spiritual dimension of extreme singing, where each cry and each note are the fruit of an intense emotional connection. “Singing, especially in metal, is unnatural. You have to learn to shout, to express something deep and intense,” he emphasizes.
The exchanges with the public, set up at the end of the masterclass, are rich and varied. Arnaud Toral, experienced singer, is delighted with this rare opportunity: “It’s great to be able to interact with an extreme singer who tours regularly. The spiritual message of Jean-Baptiste Le Bail is very enriching. » For his part, Serge Ceroni, hardcore punk singer, admits that he was hoping for more specific vocal techniques. “I would have liked to go deeper into saturated singing, but this meeting remains very instructive and I am happy to have participated. »
Emilie Drouinaud
The singer was inspired by his journey to develop his explanations.
An interactive atmosphere
The intimate setting of the masterclass encourages direct and spontaneous exchanges. After a round of presentations, everyone has the opportunity to ask questions on the application of the advice in their career, on the music of Jean-Baptiste Le Bail, or on more technical aspects. Why make metal? How to serve music through singing? How to define the limits of your body? How to build your metalhead character? The questions follow one another, the two hours of the masterclass pass by.
“Jean-Baptiste Le Bail offered us this masterclass and we immediately thought it was a brilliant idea. With an audience passionate about this musical style here in the Basque Country, there was a real demand,” explains Marin Dumard, studio manager at Atabal.
With a price of 25 euros, this masterclass attracted around ten enthusiasts, a crowd which delighted the organizers. “We set a limit of 15 people and we are delighted with the number of participants,” specifies Marin Dumard. “These events are rare, but we hope to host more in the future. »
