Applying Exercise Science Principles to Voice Pedagogy: Skill Acquisition, Performance Assessment, and Literature Selection
Thursday 27th July 2023, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
Although there is a large body of literature that applies exercise principles to athletic goals (running marathons, strength training, etc.), there is comparatively little research that applies these same principles to singing endeavours.
This article applies exercise science principles to specific vocal warm-up regimes (skill-acquisition exercises) and literature selection for classical singers.
After an introductory discussion of skill acquisition from an exercise physiology perspective, discussion will segue to a review of skill-acquisition warm-ups that are commonly used in classical voice training and habilitation.
An examination of historical and contemporary methodologies reveals that traditional warm-ups for singers can be categorised according to targeted areas of skill acquisition, such as those that address onset/release, breath management, agility/flexibility, registration blending, tone/resonance development, or range expansion.
Based on this information, the presenter’s research suggests the development of a rubric to assess the skill levels of individual singers in each of these areas.
Teachers of singing can then consider these data when assigning repertoire from the standard body of vocal literature so that the specific areas of skill acquisition focused on in the warm-up are applied and reinforced through appropriate repertoire selection.
Matthew Hoch
Matthew Hoch joined the faculty of Auburn University in 2012, where he was tenured in 2015 and promoted to the rank of professor in 2020. His research program...
Attend this course for as little as £22 as part of the Voice Professional Training CPD Award Scheme.
Learn MoreSorry, this is an archived short course...
We have plenty of upcoming short courses coming soon. See details of some of them below or look at the full list of short courses.
Thursday 23rd April 2026
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Friday 24th April 2026
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
(London Time)
Singing and the Brain: A Harmonious Connection!
Dr Patricia Izbicki
Unlock the transformative power of music with our two-part lecture series that delves deep into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, music education, and music therapy.
Monday 27th April 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Tuesday 28th April 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Wednesday 29th April 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Thursday 30th April 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
(London Time)
Certificate in Coaching Emotional Vocal Expression
Louisa Morgan
Understanding emotions is crucial for coaching performers towards more authentic and compelling performances. However, working with emotions can be challenging, both physiologically and mentally. This course will introduce you to theories of emotion and the connections between the brain, body, and voice. We will then discuss how to work effectively with emotions when coaching speakers or singers, considering the physical and mental demands.
Monday 27th April 2026
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 28th April 2026
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 29th April 2026
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 30th April 2026
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Friday 1st May 2026
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 5th May 2026
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
(London Time)
Certificate In Applied Neuroscience And Voice with Voice Scientist Heidi Moss
This six-day course is designed to provide an introduction to the neuroscience of vocalization. It aims to provide a foundation for those who are looking to fuse science with art and understand that the voice is so much more than an instrument.