Shifting Gears from Classical to Broadway: Making the Vocal Switch!
Wednesday 11th February 2026, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
As stylistic demands in the vocal world continue to evolve, classical singers are increasingly expected to perform in genres such as Musical Theatre and Commercial Music (CM). Yet, for many classically trained singers, the transition from operatic technique to speech-based, microphone-amplified styles can present significant technical and artistic challenges.
This session—led by an internationally known pedagogue specializing in Musical Theatre and CM who herself performed professionaly in both opera and musical theatre —bridges these two vocal worlds to provide singers and teachers with practical, research-informed strategies for healthy, authentic crossover. The presenter offers a multifaceted exploration of how the classical voice can be thoughtfully adapted to meet the stylistic and expressive demands of modern genres without sacrificing technical integrity.
Rather than viewing crossover as a departure from classical technique, this session reframes it as an expansion—an opportunity for singers to build stylistic fluency while maintaining healthy, efficient vocal production. Designed for both performers and pedagogues, the session provides actionable exercises, diagnostic tools, and teaching strategies for integrating crossover training into both private studios and academic settings.
The class will explore how resonance is shaped by the vocal tract and how conscious adjustments in the jaw, tongue, soft palate, and articulators can create the tonal colors and acoustic qualities demanded by different genres.
Additionally, participants will be introduced to vocal Stylisms and riffing patterns that enhance stylistic freedom, agility, and creativity. These elements encourage the development of expressive versatility—essential for adapting the classical instrument to contemporary musical styles.
Attendees will leave with greater confidence in guiding classically trained singers toward versatile, expressive, and genre-appropriate performance—equipped with the knowledge and resources to navigate today’s diverse and evolving vocal marketplace.
🏷️ 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
Edrie Means Weekly
Edrie Means Weekly, Co-Founder of the CCM Vocal Pedagogy Institute, is an associate professor of voice and voice pedagogy at Shenandoah Conservatory and professor of voice at George Mason University. A 2021 Van Lawrence Fellowship Awardee, and a recognized expert in training singers in all vocal styles. An active professional singer, Edrie has presented numerous papers, countless workshops and master classes at national and international conferences.
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
(London Time)
Introduction to Vocal Psychotherapy: Songs of the Self
Dr. Diane Austin
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
(London Time)
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.