Sign singing

File:Twinkle Twinkle Little Star - Makaton Sign Language.webm Sign singing

Sign singing is a form of music performance that combines elements of sign language and vocal singing. It is a unique art form that involves expressing lyrics through a combination of hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements, synchronized with vocal performance. Sign singing is often used as a means of making music accessible to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as to create a more inclusive musical experience for all audiences.

History

The origins of sign singing can be traced back to the early 20th century when it was first developed as a way to bridge the gap between the deaf and hearing communities. Over time, sign singing has evolved into a recognized art form with its own techniques and styles. Today, sign singing is used in a variety of musical genres, including pop music, gospel music, and musical theater.

Techniques

Sign singing involves a combination of manual signs, facial expressions, and body movements that are used to convey the lyrics of a song. Performers must synchronize their signing with the rhythm and melody of the music, creating a visually captivating performance that enhances the emotional impact of the song. Sign singers often undergo extensive training to master the coordination of signing and singing, as well as to convey the nuances of the lyrics through their movements.

Applications

Sign singing has been used in a variety of contexts, including concerts, music videos, and educational settings. In addition to making music accessible to the deaf community, sign singing can also enhance the overall performance for hearing audiences by adding a visual element to the music. Sign singing is also used in educational settings to teach sign language and promote inclusivity in the arts.

Notable Performers

Several performers have gained recognition for their skill in sign singing, including Amber Galloway Gallego, a renowned sign language interpreter who has worked with various musical artists to create sign singing performances that have garnered widespread acclaim.

See also

• Sign language
• Music
• Deaf culture