Demystifying Research: Evaluating the Efficacy of the Feldenkrais Method®
Thursday 8th May 2025, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (London Time)
The Feldenkrais Method® belongs to a class of somatic methods often used in the voice studio to facilitate more efficient use of the body. In this age of ‘evidence-based practice’, it is important for the studio teacher/pedagogue/performer to be able to evaluate research claims. A basic understanding of research methods and biases inherent in the research process is necessary to properly evaluate their conclusions, especially if the research findings influence studio practice.
This course will explore some of the central principles of the Feldenkrais Method in terms of the science of the mid-20th century when they were developed as well as their validation based on contemporary advances in our understanding of neuroscience. Through the lens of modern neuroscience, we will examine a few peer-reviewed efficacy studies in the light the constraints of validity, reliability and objectivity.
Research methods may vary depending on the nature of the research or research question. In broad terms, research is either Quantitative, data statistically derived from experiments or surveys, or Qualitative, based on interviews, documents, or other human interactions. Most of the research involving efficacy of learning methods are quantitative. These types of studies are very effective when dealing with cause and effect such as in chemical interactions. However, when they involve human behaviour, such as in a study involving throwing a baseball, or somatic method such as Yoga or the Feldenkrais Method®, there are often too many variables to conclude reliable recuring outcomes. Validity and reliability depend on exact replication of results. Objectivity depends on neutral metrics, usually numerical values. Thus, many studies, as we shall see, claim that the methods studied are not as effective as claimed, because cause and effect is not easily measurable.
Marina Gilman
Marina Gilman holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Indiana University, Master of Music degree from Ithaca College, and a Masters of Art in Communication Disorders...
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.
Tuesday 5th August 2025
1:00 PM - 12:00 PM
Tuesday 12th August 2025
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tuesday 19th August 2025
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tuesday 26th August 2025
1:00 PM - 12:00 PM
Tuesday 2nd September 2025
1:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Tuesday 9th September 2025
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tuesday 16th September 2025
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Tuesday 23rd September 2025
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
(London Time)
Certificate in Acting Approaches for Singing Teachers
Louisa Morgan
Are you a singing teacher looking to elevate your students’ performances? Join our very own Louisa Morgan, as she takes a deeper dive into acting approaches that singing teachers can use to integrate powerful acting techniques into singing lessons. This 8 session course is perfect for those who want to help their singers connect deeply with the story behind the song. Gain practical tools and techniques that you can immediately apply in your teaching! Come along live for an interactive experience, or watch on playback at your leisure.
Thursday 28th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
What Broadway Singers Wish You Knew About Mixing!
Regina McAllen
Despite countless studies on vocal technique, few have asked Broadway singers to speak for themselves! In this research-informed session, Regina McAllen presents findings from her two qualitative studies, which amplify the voices of Broadway performers as they reflect on how they experience, develop, and refine their vocal mix. Through selected excerpts from performer interviews and surveys, these investigations offer a rare insider perspective on how elite singers approach and experience their mix on the Broadway stage.
Tuesday 2nd September 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Soul-Training: Riffs, Runs, & R&B Singing
Lisa Popeil
In this interactive workshop, participants will have an opportunity to explore an extremely popular vocal style known as soul singing or R&B (Rhythm & Blues). Lisa Popeil will share with singers, voice teachers, and anyone interested in this powerful vocal style some little-known techniques in producing this rich, emotional, and satisfying sound!