Beyond the Mechanics: Vocal Injury Prevention & Performance Optimization
Tuesday 22nd August 2023, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
When addressing vocal injury prevention and management, it is essential to place the voice in the context of the whole body. Issues such as body alignment, breath mechanics, cardiovascular fitness, and even emotional health all play a role in the expression of vocal symptoms. The question of what constitutes a vocal injury may be classified by some as inability to vocalize or pain on vocalizing, but issues such as vocal fatigue, pitch control, vocal range, and perceived vocal ‘breaks’ can all be addressed through an exploration of the underlying anatomy and how the voice ‘sits’ within the fully embodied performer.
The voice is an organic instrument and is therefore deeply rooted in, and expressive of, our identity and how we interact with the world around us. All too often we look solely at the mechanical aspects of voice production when experiencing vocal challenges which can leave out important components that may lead to the recurrence of the issue.
In this session, we will explore the pathways and components that can lead to vocal injury, how to prevent injury where possible, and what to do should an injury occur. The session will include:
- An overview of the anatomy of voice production, beginning at the feet.
- An exploration of the interconnected pathways through the body that influence voice production and breath mechanics.
- Common vocal challenges, how they occur, and how to manage them.
- The physiological connection between emotional states and voice production.
- The role of overall physical health and fitness in voice production.
- Good practices for general performance fitness, injury prevention, and emotional health.
The session will take you on a journey that encourages viewing the voice through a much broader lens, giving you a dynamic toolkit for both short-term and long-term strategies for managing vocal issues. We’ll be learning practical exercises for your personal use and there will be plenty of time for interactive questions and answers.
Jennie Morton
After a long performing career as a Ballet dancer, West End Musical Theatre performer, and lead singer of a London-based Big Band, Jennie is now an Osteopath specializing in Performing Arts Medicine. Now based in Los Angeles...
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.
Monday 7th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday 8th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday 9th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Friday 11th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Monday 14th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday 15th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday 16th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Friday 18th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
(London Time)
Introduction to statistics and working with quantitative data for Voice Professionals: 8-Session Online Bootcamp
Dr David Cane
This certificated statistics course is ideal for individuals interested in laying a solid foundation in quantitative research methods. By focusing on essential statistical principles, you will be equipped with the tools to understand and apply quantitative research techniques effectively. Statistics is a crucial component of quantitative research; mastering it will enable you to grasp quantitative methods more confidently and precisely.
Wednesday 16th July 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
(London Time)
Emotion and Performing Accents and Dialects: why does Emotion Get in the Way?
Louisa Morgan
At points of heightened emotion, it is common for actors working in an accent to default to their natural speech. How do we help performers to avoid this issue and provide them and their directors with the confidence they need regardless of the emotional demands of the piece? What can we learn from research in vocal expression of emotion to help actors to embody the emotion and keep control of their voice and accent? Our very own Louisa Morgan will guide participants through the latest research and offer practical suggestions for working with performers needing to navigate this challenge.
Tuesday 22nd July 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 29th July 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 5th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 12th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 19th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 26th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Certificated Public Speaking Coach qualification - with John Henny
John Henny
Would you like to be a certified public speaking coach? Join the renowned John Henny for this exciting new online course! This six-week online certification course is designed to equip voice teachers with the specialised skills needed to work with public speakers, corporate trainers, educators, and presenters. Unlike a general public speaking course, this program is specifically tailored to train-the-trainer, giving voice professionals structured methodologies, coaching techniques, and applied skills to enhance vocal delivery, confidence, and influence in professional speakers.