Singing and the Brain: A Harmonious Connection
Thursday 24th April 2025, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (London Time)
Friday 25th April 2025, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (London Time)
Unlock the transformative power of music with our two-part lecture series that delves deep into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, music education, and music therapy. This comprehensive exploration will expand your horizons in the following key areas:
- Neuroscience and Music: Gain insights into the fundamental mechanisms underlying the profound connection between music and the brain. Uncover the intricate ways in which music impacts cognitive and emotional well-being, leading to remarkable changes in brain structure and function.
- Neuroscience of Music Education & Music Therapy: Discover how music education and therapy serve as catalysts for neuroplasticity, enhancing cognitive abilities and promoting lifelong brain health. Learn about the myriad benefits of these practices, from fostering healthy aging to their overall positive impact on well-being.
- The Science of Singing Throughout the Lifespan: Uncover the science behind the human voice and its evolution from infancy to later years. This segment provides a solid foundation of research on the art and science of singing, offering valuable insights for educators, practitioners, and researchers.
This course aims to achieve three distinct objectives: to demonstrate the multifaceted benefits of music training and therapy, to equip you with a neuroscience-informed perspective for teaching, practice, and research, and to provide a comprehensive understanding of the science of singing across all stages of life. Join Dr Patricia Izbicki on this captivating journey and unlock the secrets of music's impact on the brain and human development.
Dr Patricia Izbicki
Dr Patricia Izbicki is a neuroscientist and medical science liaison at Octave, as well as a classical pianist and harpsichordist. Her research focuses on understanding the brain mechanisms of complementary therapies, such as music training, in aging adults and persons with Parkinson's disease.
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
(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.