Neuroscience-based Vocal Pedagogy
Thursday 22nd April 2021, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
Neuroscience-based vocal pedagogy
Heidi Moss Erickson, B.A.Bio, B.Mus.Voice, M.Sci.
Research on the neurobiological underpinnings of vocalization is growing at a rapid pace. Scientists from varied disciplines contribute to this field, elucidating the process from diverse angles such as evolutionary biology, molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, and social science. It is essential that singers, pedagogues, and voice scientists capitalize on this wealth of data outside of our own field to greater understand our instruments.
An integrative viewpoint of how and why we sing can refine the art of vocal pedagogy, demystifying long-held myths, and yield greater vocal efficiency: making singers better faster.
The goal of this lecture is to bridge the divide between traditional voice science and pedagogy with the most current research from other disciplines.
Specifically, we will explore:
- Vocal Learning: audiation and mimicry
- How to learn coloratura and riffs via patterns
- The importance of getting off the page and strategies to make written music more ‘singer-brain’ friendly.
- Using gesture to improve vocalization (and why it works!)
- Pitching strategies
- Reframing breath: a valve based system
- Character and emotion: playing with opposites
- Distraction as a tool
Vocal pedagogy should be a dynamic process, and the hope is that this exploration will encourage singers and teachers to think outside the box. Given the rapid pace of neuroscience research, dogmas can actually change in a short amount of time resulting in paradigm shifts that can be small or seismic. To that end, it is important to keep up to date on current trends via primary papers and taking note of the diverse minds in the field. We will finish the lecture with a bibliography of the wonderful scientists working on the neuroscience of vocalization.
Heidi Moss Erickson
Heidi Moss, is a Bay Area performer, educator, and scientist. Noted for her “rich and radiant soprano” (Edward Oriz, Sacramento Bee) has performed on national and international stages...
Sorry, 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
(London Time)
Introduction to Vocal Psychotherapy: Songs of the Self
Dr. Diane Austin
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
(London Time)
Unclenching the Jaw: Options from the Physio Lens
Walt Fritz
“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
7:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Friday 24th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
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.