The Use of Music in the Speech Recovery and Confidence Rebuilding After Laryngectomy
Thursday 20th February 2025, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
Laryngectomy is the surgical removal of the voice box, a life changing operation mostly indicated by throat cancer. The post-operative anatomical changes affect voice, swallow, smell and taste. As a result up to 30% of the affected population suffer from anxiety, depression and/or social isolation.
We explore the use of singing, acting and beatboxing techniques in the speech recovery after laryngectomy. We showcase how laryngectomy choir activities including performances and writing poetry help to rebuild confidence and inform, even inspire, the laryngectomy, healthcare, science and broader communities.
We will discuss the rationale behind the introduction of music and writing poetry into the alaryngeal speech recovery, demonstrate audio-samples before and after the use of singing techniques and learn from feedback from audience and participants. The talk will include examples of poetry and performance by the laryngectomy choir. At the end of the lecture there will be room for Q&A.
The talk will be structured as follows:
- introduction to laryngectomy and its post-operative anatomical changes.
- The importance of respiratory function and breathing techniques.
- How Singing techniques can improve the quality of the laryngectomy voice.
- Music as a motivational tool in rehabilitation.
- Beatboxing: every sound counts.
- A choir: group activity on steroids.
- The importance of multiplural co-creation.
- The healing and educational effect of putting things to paper.
- The power of performance.
🏷️ 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 Thomas Moors
A Belgian, London based, awarded medical doctor with special interest in voice and integration of art into healthcare. His mission is to use multi plural co - creativity and bring positive attention towards small and scattered groups (overlooked) in medicine, research and society.
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
(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
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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.