The Nature Of Empathy And Its Relevance For Voice Work
Thursday 10th June 2021, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
How do we sense, understand, and respond to other people’s feelings? What neurobiological, situational, and sociopolitical influences modify these reactions? In the pandemic era, how have online interactions and social distance modified our capacities for empathy? Can empathy be trained; can it go too far; and does it always lead to helpful action? This presentation will combine research from animal studies, neurology, and social psychology, plus real-life examples, leading to suggestions for effective teaching and impactful artistry.
DEFINITIONS: WHAT IS EMPATHY?
Terminological problems
Three recognized components: Somatic; Cognitive; Action-oriented
SOMATIC OR EMBODIED EMPATHY
Neurobiological mirroring of others’ feeling-state
- Influence of sensitivity to own feeling-state
- Influence of kinship and close social bonds
- Relevance of boundaries: whose feelings are whose?
COGNITIVE EMPATHY
Thinking about, imagining, or mentally assuming how someone else feels
- Influence of group affiliation, moral judgment, and cognitive bias
- Importance of active listening and verbal confirmation
COMPASSIONATE ACTION
The choice to relieve others’ distress, or to withdraw
- The difference between caring and making a difference
- How the arts may inspire action—or not
THE TRAINABILITY OF EMPATHY
- Subjective, experiential training
- Objective, formal training
- How compassionate action can feed-back into feelings
- How screens (virtual world) help or hurt
IMPLICATIONS FOR THE ARTS AND ARTS TEACHERS
- Empathy enhances learning
- Empathy touches audiences
- The importance of self-care
- The importance of community
- Life after lockdown: empathy at home, in classrooms, and in the wider world
Joanna Cazden
Joanna Cazden, MFA, MS-CCC is a speech pathologist specializing in vocal arts rehabilitation, now in private practice after 18 years as senior voice clinician...
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 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.