Unveiling Vocal Identity: Navigating Adolescence Through Song
Thursday 30th May 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
In this two-hour workshop, we will explore the intricate world of vocal identity during adolescence. Join us in exploring the psychological and sociological impact of the voice change, shedding light on the factors that shape and define this crucial phase in a young person's life.
Adolescent boy singers often experience a unique intersection of psychological and sociological factors that shape their journey in music education. Psychologically, adolescence is a period of self-discovery and identity formation, and these young musicians navigate the challenges of finding their voice both musically and personally. The pressures of performance expectations, and the constant scrutiny of their image can impact their mental well-being. Sociologically, the teenage years are marked by a heightened sensitivity to social validation and peer acceptance. Additionally, societal expectations regarding masculinity and success can influence the artistic choices and expressions of teenage boy singers. The interplay of these psychological and sociological factors contributes to the complex and dynamic landscape that shapes the experiences of young male vocalists in music education.
Throughout the session, we will unravel the layers of vocal identity, investigating the complexity of musical identity, motivation, peer pressure, social stigma, emotional challenges, and engagement. Our discussion will revolve around the influencing factors that contribute to the unique and complex vocal journey teenagers, specifically boys, undergo during this pivotal period.
Designed with vocal coaches in mind, this workshop offers valuable insights for those working with adolescent singers, especially those navigating the challenges of the voice change. Music educators and department leads will also find relevance in understanding the intricate musical (vocal) identity of teenagers, with a particular focus on the psychology of singing.
Furthermore, our session extends its reach to SEN practitioners seeking creative ways to support a diverse group of children. By unravelling the complex relationship teenagers have with music and their own voice, we aim to provide practical insights that can be applied in various educational settings.
Janos Fabian
Janos Fabian is a PhD Music and Psychology researcher, Music Psychologist (MA) and Director of Music (PGCE, QTLS, BA).
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 12th January 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Tuesday 13th January 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Wednesday 14th January 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
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12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Tuesday 20th January 2026
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
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12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
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Monday 12th January 2026
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How does the singing voice influence the speaking voice? How does the speaking voice influence the singing voice? When is there a disparate relationship between the two? Can they help each other? Can one harm the other? How can we use them positively in the voice studio. During this short course we will consider the voice as we sing and as we speak. The acquisition of language is a very interesting journey from birth through old age. We will broach the topics of “lexical” which refers to learning words, and “semantic” which is how we use words in the context of language.
Monday 12th January 2026
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What exactly is meant when we label ourselves or someone we know a perfectionist? It is a good to be this way? Or are you setting yourself up for failure? Can a performance psychologist or a other performance-related practitioner help you if you’re a perfectionist? In this short course, you will learn how perfectionism is defined according to popular models in clinical psychology, and whether it is maladaptive or adaptive. You will also learn how perfectionism impacts on music performance anxiety, in addition to other areas of importance for performing musicians, like work-related stress and burnout, and procrastination with one’s practice.