Applying Exercise Science Principles to Voice Pedagogy: Skill Acquisition, Performance Assessment, and Literature Selection
Thursday 27th July 2023, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
Although there is a large body of literature that applies exercise principles to athletic goals (running marathons, strength training, etc.), there is comparatively little research that applies these same principles to singing endeavours.
This article applies exercise science principles to specific vocal warm-up regimes (skill-acquisition exercises) and literature selection for classical singers.
After an introductory discussion of skill acquisition from an exercise physiology perspective, discussion will segue to a review of skill-acquisition warm-ups that are commonly used in classical voice training and habilitation.
An examination of historical and contemporary methodologies reveals that traditional warm-ups for singers can be categorised according to targeted areas of skill acquisition, such as those that address onset/release, breath management, agility/flexibility, registration blending, tone/resonance development, or range expansion.
Based on this information, the presenter’s research suggests the development of a rubric to assess the skill levels of individual singers in each of these areas.
Teachers of singing can then consider these data when assigning repertoire from the standard body of vocal literature so that the specific areas of skill acquisition focused on in the warm-up are applied and reinforced through appropriate repertoire selection.
Matthew Hoch
Matthew Hoch joined the faculty of Auburn University in 2012, where he was tenured in 2015 and promoted to the rank of professor in 2020. His research program...
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.
Monday 3rd August 2026
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Tuesday 4th August 2026
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Wednesday 5th August 2026
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Thursday 6th August 2026
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Friday 7th August 2026
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
(London Time)
Level Two Certificate in Accents and Phonetics with Louisa Morgan
Louisa Morgan
Build on your foundational knowledge of accents and phonetics in this week‑long lunchtime course designed specifically for voice teachers. Whether you have completed our Level 1 Certificate or already possess a basic working knowledge of phonetics and accent work, this Level 2 course will help you deepen your skills, sharpen your analytical ear, and expand your practical toolkit for teaching.
Tuesday 11th August 2026
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Redefining Ethical Practice in Voice Teaching!
Dr Justin John Moniz
Join Dr Justin John Moniz as he examines ethical practice in voice teaching through a structured, evidence-informed framework for sustainable, student-centered pedagogy. Although voice teaching operates outside formal licensure models common to allied professions, teachers hold significant responsibility for students’ vocal function, artistic development, and long-term well-being. This course addresses that gap through a five-part paradigm grounded in the NATS Code of Ethics, contemporary research, and applied studio practice.
Wednesday 12th August 2026
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
(London Time)
MA Voice Pedagogy: Online Information Session & Q&A
Debbie Winter
Considering our MA Voice Pedagogy? Join our Director for a focused online presentation and discussion to explore the course, ask questions, and discover whether postgraduate study at Voice Study Centre is right for you.