Inclusive Voices Take Centre Stage: Abi Mann-Daraz Delivers Keynote at AOTOS 50th Anniversary

Our Practitioner Scholar, Abi Mann-Daraz delivered a keynote address at the 50th Association of Teachers of Singing (AOTOS) Summer Conference, held from 18-20th July, 2025, at the Royal Opera House Covent Garden in London. The landmark conference, themed 'Access All Areas,' celebrated five decades of the venerable organisation by focusing on practical talks and collaborative singing.

Abi, a voice confidence specialist, educator, and founder of The Musical Self, presented on "Sensitive Voice Work." Her session explored how practitioners can confidently and carefully navigate sensory sensitivity, neurodivergence, and complex vocal relations. She aimed for the session to be a moment for attendees to pause, reconnect with breath and sound, and celebrate the power of voice for expression, connection, and communication.

With a background in psychology, research, and vocal performance, Abi (BSc MA MISM GMBPsS) brings a compassionate, research-informed approach to her vocal practice. Her work encompasses singing teaching, voice coaching, music education, and therapeutic voice work, serving a diverse client base that includes professional performers and individuals within SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), PMLD (Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties), and palliative care communities.

Abi works internationally, advising and training voice practitioners in inclusive practice. Her forthcoming book will further support singing teachers and voice coaches in building confidence when working with marginalised and neurodivergent groups, incorporating findings from her recent research into singing pedagogy and minimally verbal populations.

In a recent two-year project, Abi coordinated efforts at the International Centre for Community Music at York St John University, collaborating with the Royal College of Music and the Singing for Health Network. This initiative brought together international researchers to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange on the health benefits of group singing. Additionally, she contributes to The Amber Trust as a SEND Music Practitioner, supporting blind and partially sighted children, including those with profound and multiple disabilities. Her keynote at the AOTOS 50th Anniversary conference highlighted her commitment to inclusive and innovative holistic creative practices within the arts, education, and health sectors.