Trauma and the Voice: A Guide for Singers, Teachers, and Other Practitioners

The statistics show that over half of American 17-year-olds have experienced trauma or witnessed it firsthand. This interdisciplinary volume collects, synthesizes, and summarizes existing research for singing teachers and other voice practitioners, presenting empirical data and case studies from psychology, music therapy, vocal instruction, and speech pathology. It imparts practical application and important interventions for voice instruction, concluding with trauma awareness as a social justice practice. Teachers can feel more empowered to make safe and healthy progress with their students for a lifetime of reliable technique and satisfaction in singing by recognizing common signs of trauma and developing studio practices that offer the potential to convey safety and promote healing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 26 August 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

When working with singers, one delves into the realm of emotions, and by extension, the intricate workings of the nervous system. Emotions hold immense significance in the applied studio, and in the contemporary era, it has become increasingly crucial for singing teachers to grasp the intricacies of emotion and, particularly, the profound impact of trauma on the voice. The statistics are indeed astonishing: over half of American 17-year-olds have either experienced trauma or witnessed it firsthand. Moreover, the next person you encounter is more likely to carry nervous system trauma than to be left-handed.

For the first time, this interdisciplinary volume brings together, synthesizes, and summarizes existing research specifically tailored for singing teachers and other voice practitioners. It presents empirical data and compelling case studies drawn from experts in psychology, music therapy, vocal instruction, and speech pathology. This comprehensive resource imparts practical insights and essential interventions for voice instruction, culminating in the exploration of trauma awareness as a social justice practice.

When a human steps onto the stage or engages in singing lessons, their nervous system is activated, drawing upon the fundamental principles of human biology. The most prevalent physiological effects of trauma encompass restricted breathing, an exaggerated response to fight-or-flight situations, constriction of the throat, limited facial expressions or physical gestures, and a decreased tolerance for risk. These factors play a pivotal role in the training of singers and in performance scenarios. By recognizing common signs of trauma and cultivating studio practices that foster a sense of safety and promote healing, teachers gain the empowerment to guide their students toward a lifetime of reliable technique and profound satisfaction in singing.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 229 x 153 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538179468