Habilitation for the Aging Avocational Singer
Tuesday 6th August 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
As our population ages, the demand for voice teachers who can adeptly support the unique needs of aging singers is steadily increasing. This course, based on my paper “Habilitation for the Aging Avocational Singer” (Journal of Singing, January/February 2022 Volume 78, No. 3, pp. 347–354) explores voice pedagogy principles tailored specifically to the aging population. It equips voice teachers with the knowledge and tools to address challenges and maximize the potential of their aging singer clientele.
Course Objectives:
- Understanding Aging and Its Impact on the Voice:
- Examine physiological changes and their effects on the singing voice.
- Discuss challenges like loss of range, intonation issues, slower vibrato, and vocal fatigue.
- Pedagogical Interventions:
- Learn strategies for addressing challenges faced by aging singers: onset, power, intonation, vibrato, noise, and vowel production.
- Engage with exercises designed to strengthen and stabilize the aging voice, drawing from traditional methods and recent therapeutic advances.
- Accommodating Diverse Needs:
- Address the specific needs of various aging singer profiles, including avocational singers, retired professionals, and true adult beginners.
- Consider gender and age-related changes, with a focus on recent research concerning female singers and those navigating menopause.
- Promoting Lifelong Vocal Health:
- Emphasize the importance of daily vocal exercise, proper nutrition, hydration, and an active lifestyle in maintaining vocal health.
- Encourage a positive and proactive approach to aging, celebrating the unique advantages and experiences that older singers bring to their performances.
Course Features:
- Case Studies and Peer Feedback: Analyze your real-world scenarios and benefit from the collective experience of fellow participants.
- Resource Compilation: Receive curated resources, including recommended readings, exercise protocols, and referral guidelines for healthcare professionals.
Join us to enhance your skills as a voice teacher and make a meaningful impact on the lives of aging singers. Equip yourself with the expertise to support their vocal journey and ensure they continue to enjoy singing with confidence and joy.
This course is ideal for voice teachers, choir directors, and vocal coaches looking to deepen their understanding of the aging voice and expand their pedagogical toolkit.
🏷️ Price £30 (UK VAT inclusive)
🎥 Recording automatically sent to all who book (even if you cannot attend live)
▶️ Rewatch as many times as you like
📜 Certificate of attendance available
Dr Dann Mitton
Independent voice teacher and researcher Dann Mitton earned his Doctor of Musical Arts in Performance (Voice) degree with a specialization in voice 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.
Tuesday 23rd June 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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This presentation draws on the methods and techniques of Vocal Psychotherapy, a new in-depth model of music psychotherapy developed by Dr. Austin, that incorporates breath work, natural sounds, vocal improvisation, and songs and dialogue within a client and therapist relationship to facilitate intrapsychic and interpersonal change and growth.
Thursday 2nd July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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Unclenching the Jaw: Options from the Physio Lens
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“Jaw tension” is one of many potential problems facing the singer, and can cause a direct negative impact on the performance in both direct and indirect ways. The underlying cause of jaw issues is attributed to numerous factors (technique, posture, strength, range of motion, etc.), making it often difficult to identify common denominators. Join Walt Fritz as he examines the evidence supporting stretching, strengthening, and manual therapy interventions to address jaw-related concerns in vocal performers, taking into account their unique needs.
Monday 6th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 10th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Monday 13th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 17th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Monday 20th July 2026
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Friday 24th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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Certificate in Foundations of Vocology with Adam Roberts
Adam Roberts
This 30-hour Vocology Cohort Intensive provides a comprehensive overview of basic vocal anatomy, physiology, and theories of voice production & perception, fundamentals of vocal health, pathology, evaluation, performance, and habilitation of the speaking and singing voice, and a survey of research, resources, and professional opportunities. Each week, advanced students contribute to cohort-centred learning with additional resources, discussion facilitation, and critical analysis. The course assessment will also be useful for those who wish to prepare for the PAVA recognised designation.