The Evolving Singing Voice: The Senior Years
Thursday 6th October 2022, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
This short course draws information from Chapter 6 of Karen’s Book, The Evolving Singing Voice: Changes Across the Life Span – The Senescent Singer.
Vocal changes and their impact on singing sometimes prompt singers in their fifth, sixth, and even seventh decade of life to seek help with their voices.
At this point, a teacher well-equipped with explanations and solutions can be a great help.
Karen has worked with many aging amateur and professional singers one-on-one and within the ensemble setting. She is also an older singer herself.
This course will address the impact of aging factors on “the senescent singer?”
Are there specific exercises that can address changing issues?
What are reasonable healthy expectations for singing?
What causes these changes? What changes in our sensations and why?
At the end of the course, you will have a depth of understanding and many ways to help our beloved senior singers.
Karen Brunssen
Mezzo-soprano, Karen Brunssen is Professor and Co-chair of the Department of Music Performance at Bienen School of Music, Northwestern University.
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.
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.
Friday 24th July 2026
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
(London Time)
In Conversation With… Dr Tracy Bourne
Dr Tracy Bourne
Join us for the next conversation in our public interview series exploring vocal health and sustainability in musical theatre performance, this time with music theatre voice specialist, Dr Tracy Bourne! Free and open to all!
Tuesday 28th July 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
“Too Much, Too Little, Just Right!” - The Balancing Act Model
Robert Edwin
The Balancing Act Model encourages singers to explore the extremes of singing, and from those extremes, establish their most efficient (balanced) voice and performance techniques. Join the renowned singer/actor and author Robert Edwin as he covers many aspects of the singing process including breathing, phonation, resonation, articulation, and attitude. If you’re involved in music theater or opera, you’ll find the Model to be especially helpful in developing character voices for roles such as Nathan and Adelaide in Guys and Dolls. If you’re just looking to find out what your body and voice can do, The Balancing Act Model can provide many answers!