Hyperadduction: A Preventative and Therapeutic Approach to Voice Teaching
Tuesday 9th January 2024, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (London Time)
“Hyperfunctional vocal behaviours are considered to be a primary cause of the most common voice disorders: throat discomfort, vocal fatigue, nodules, polyps, oedema, inflammation and haemorrhage of the vocal folds.” – Freeman and Fawcus
Speech pathology has long been the therapeutic route for treating hyperadductive speakers. Other practices like physical therapy, The Feldenkrais Method®, Alexander Technique and yoga practices have also assisted practitioners in the alleviation of hyperfunction in the body.
This workshop is designed to provide voice teachers and professionals with strategies to counter hyperfunctional vocal behaviours (such as constriction and overexertion of the muscles around the larynx) and thus enable ease of vocal fold functioning. Self-awareness, muscle-release lengthening and awareness stretches, laryngeal massage, neck-release and alignment, athletic-aspirated onset, silent inhalation, and SOVT exercises/practices are the chief tools for addressing this ongoing vocal trend.
As vocal pedagogy evolves, we must challenge ourselves to constantly grow and adjust to the modern expectations of the different genres we hope to be qualified to teach. Utilizing an approach that puts health and longevity before aesthetic is a good way to begin the journey of embracing diversity within our scope of instruction.
Dr John Seesholtz
Dr. John Seesholtz, baritone, is the cofounder of the Canciones project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of Latin American music throughout all stages of academia and former Director of Vocal Pedagogy at the University of Colorado.
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.
Tuesday 22nd July 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 29th July 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 5th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 12th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 19th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 26th August 2025
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
(London Time)
Certificated Public Speaking Coach qualification - with John Henny
John Henny
Would you like to be a certified public speaking coach? Join the renowned John Henny for this exciting new online course! This six-week online certification course is designed to equip voice teachers with the specialised skills needed to work with public speakers, corporate trainers, educators, and presenters. Unlike a general public speaking course, this program is specifically tailored to train-the-trainer, giving voice professionals structured methodologies, coaching techniques, and applied skills to enhance vocal delivery, confidence, and influence in professional speakers.
Monday 4th August 2025
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 5th August 2025
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Monday 11th August 2025
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 12th August 2025
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Monday 18th August 2025
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
(London Time)
Disability and Neurodivergence within the Voice Teaching Studio
Dr David Cane
This 5-part course, hosted by our very own David Cane, offers a timely and reflective opportunity to explore disability and neurodivergence within the voice teaching studio. Grounded in the field of critical disability studies, it will be of particular interest to voice professionals who wish to foster a more inclusive, reflexive and accessible practice.
Monday 4th August 2025
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday 5th August 2025
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Wednesday 6th August 2025
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Thursday 7th August 2025
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Friday 8th August 2025
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
(London Time)
Introduction to Postgraduate Academic Skills - Join Live!
Debbie Winter
Are you ready to elevate your academic journey? Hosted by our very own Debbie Winter, join our comprehensive Introduction to Academic Skills course, designed to equip you with essential tools and strategies for success in higher education. Perfect for bridging the gap between undergraduate and postgraduate study, this course offers a pathway to our full MA for students without an existing degree. We offer both live, interactive sessions and standalone, pre-recorded content.