The Vocal Tract and Singing: A Research Overview
Thursday 9th November 2023, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
Fine control of the vocal tract shape is important for producing acoustic characteristics that may be targeted in singing. The pattern of acoustic resonances generated by a given vocal tract shape influences vowel identity, voice quality (timbre), and, to some degree, the spectral characteristics of the voice excitation source itself.
This presentation will be focused on how the vocal tract shape can be tuned (i.e. modified) in both large and subtle ways to enhance the signal radiated from a singer to an audience. This will include the vocal tract shape contributions to the ‘singing formant’, enhancement of vibrato, and harmonic/formant alignment.
Dr Brad Story
Dr Story received his BS in Applied Physics from the University of Northern Iowa in 1987 and his PhD in Speech and Hearing Sciences from the University of Iowa in 1995...
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 14th October 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Musical Theatre Singing Pedagogy: A Framework for Teaching Musical Theatre Singers
Amanda Flynn
This class will look at the pedagogy of teaching musical theatre singing. We will begin by exploring the flexibility needed for musical theatre singing through definitions, listening exercises, and some historical context.
Wednesday 15th October 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
(London Time)
Congruent Ideologies of the Bel Canto Pedagogues
Dr John Seesholtz
This presentation and discussion highlights the qualities held in common between the major pedagogues of the era, including elements of alignment, inspiration, vowel purity, legato, and pedagogic progression from exercises to repertoire.
Wednesday 15th October 2025
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
(London Time)
The Alexander Technique: Principles, Application, and Voice Integration!
Michele Capalbo
Developed by Australian actor F.M. Alexander in the late 19th century, the Alexander Technique evolved from Alexander’s voice loss during performance. Voice teachers have long recommended the Alexander Technique to improve posture and vocal function. Studies have shown alterations to vocal quality and reductions in performance anxiety following Alexander Technique intervention. This short course will emphasize universal aims considered beneficial to voice users, including mitigating excess tension and breaking harmful habits!