The Acoustics of Choir Singing
Thursday 13th February 2025, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
To be a chorister is quite a challenge: you are supposed to look at the conductor, control your voice, listen to everyone else, and during rehearsal also read both the notes and the lyrics. When many people are singing together in a room, a number of phenomena present themselves that beg for a scientific inquiry. What can knowledge of acoustics do to help the singer and the conductor? In this session, we will look at some aspects of voice production, room acoustics and auditory perception that all contribute to the success of the choir singer, and ultimately, to the audience’s satisfaction. Here are some of the topics that will be covered, time permitting:
- How is choir singing different from solo singing?
- If I cannot hear my own voice in the choir, what can be done about it?
- How many voices does it take to make a choir?
- Can I trust my voice to produce the right pitch?
- Can I trust my ears to hear the right pitch?
- What do spacing and placement do to the sound of a choir?
- Why would I rather sing next to Edward than next to George?
- Virtual acoustics: is there some app that I can practice with at home,
that simulates the sounds of the others and the concert hall?
There will be many sound examples, so configure your Zoom app for stereo and music listening, and use headphones.
🏷️ 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
Sten Ternström
Sten Ternström is Professor of Music Acoustics and Voice Acoustics at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden, at the department of Speech, Music and Hearing which was founded in 1951 by Gunnar Fant.
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.
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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
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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
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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.