Teaching the passaggio and high range of tenor, baritone and bass voices in Western Classical and contemporary genres
Thursday 8th August 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
American pedagogue Berton Coffin referred to the passaggio of tenor, baritone, and bass voices as “the hole in the sky.” Coffin recognized that if the singer could master the passaggio area, range expansion above it would be possible, opening up exciting possibilities for the singer technically, expressively and perhaps professionally.
This course will explore strategies for successfully teaching tenor, baritone, and bass voices how to negotiate the passaggio and to access the extension above it for both Western Classical and Contemporary genres of singing.
The course will begin with a review of relevant anatomy, physiology, and acoustics, providing a framework for the science-informed pedagogical strategies that follow. Habilitative exercises and developmental repertoire selection will be included in the discussion. Similarities and differences in approach between Western Classical and Contemporary genres will be a particular focus of the course.
Throughout the course, time will be provided where attendees can ask questions.
Professor John Nix
John Nix is Professor of Voice and Voice Pedagogy and chair of the voice area at the University of Texas at San Antonio. His mentors include Barbara Doscher...
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.
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.
Tuesday 7th July 2026
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
(London Time)
In Conversation With… Besfort Williams
Besfort Williams
Join us for the next conversation in our public interview series exploring vocal health and sustainability in musical theatre performance, this time with singing voice rehabilitation coach, Besfort Williams! Free and open to all!