Demystifying and Utilizing Nasal Resonance in the Voice Studio
Wednesday 12th November 2025, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
Nasal resonance, achieved by lowering the soft palate and allowing sound energy to resonate through the nasal passages, has recently gained attention for its potential benefits to singers. Research by Sundberg suggests that incorporating nasal resonance can improve vocal efficiency and offers more effective mitigation of voice breaks than traditional semi-occluded vocal tract exercises like straw phonation.
Despite common misconceptions, the voice quality often labeled “nasal” by the general public typically refers to a bright, twangy sound unrelated to true nasal resonance or velum lowering. For voice professionals, it is essential to distinguish between these separate acoustic phenomena, even when they are used together artistically. Lowering the soft palate also lowers all formant frequencies, making this technique a powerful strategy for relieving vocal pressure in high-intensity tasks such as belting or pressed phonation.
This presentation explores the science and practical application of nasal resonance, taking participants through a step-by-step process of identification and utilization of nasal resonance in singing and speech. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of when, why, and how to use it effectively in vocal performance and pedagogy.
Dr Melissa Treinkman
Melissa Treinkman, DMA, is an assistant professor of musical theatre vocal performance at the University of Southern California, where she teaches applied voice and vocal pedagogy.
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.
Friday 30th October 2026
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
(London Time)
Feldenkrais Method® - its application in speech and song!
Marina Gilman
The Feldenkrais Method® is a form of somatic education that uses gentle movement and directed attention to improve physical and mental functioning, including singing and speaking. Since we are not always aware of the source of tension or discoordination, it is difficult to make the necessary adjustments to ensure optimal use of the voice!
Monday 2nd November 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 3rd November 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
The Vocal Health Challenges for Actors and Singers!
Leda Scearce
Two part course! Vocal health principles are inextricably and symbiotically linked with singing and acting voice pedagogy: Good vocal health allows the singer and actor to more easily and effectively achieve their technical and artistic goals, and good teaching reinforces vocal technique that diminishes the risk of vocal injury. We now also recognize the necessity for singers and actors to understand how their instruments work, how to take care of their voices, and what to do when something goes wrong. Singing and acting teachers are indeed on the front lines of vocal health!
Friday 6th November 2026
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
(London Time)
Neurodivergence and Critical Disability Theory
Dr David Cane
Hosted by our very own Dr David Cane, this two-hour session offers a timely and reflective opportunity to explore disability and neurodivergence within the voice teaching studio. Grounded in the field of critical disability studies, it will be of particular interest to voice professionals who wish to foster a more inclusive, reflexive and accessible practice.