Minor in Teaching Contemporary Voice

Department
Voice

The teaching contemporary voice minor teaches singers how to safely and effectively teach singing, using a variety of pedagogical approaches. Topics covered include vocal function (anatomy and physiology as well as acoustics), effective communication with a diverse range of students, honoring and supporting their students' goals, and planning effective learning experiences for students at all levels and genres. Teaching is central to a performer's development. As students start to think like teachers, they are better equipped for all aspects of vocal performance.

Entrance Requirements

This minor is open to voice principals only.

Students must complete the following coursework before beginning the minor and follow the regular declaration of minor procedure as outlined in the Registration Guide. This minor is managed by the Voice Department.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will:

  • identify the structures of the larynx and vocal tract;
  • describe the contribution of the structures of singing to vocal function;
  • demonstrate teaching skills in small group and private settings;
  • apply their knowledge of vocal function to the vocal goals of students;
  • interpret common vocal terms through a fact-based scientific approach;
  • operate and interpret voice analysis software and tools, including use of a spectrogram;
  • assign appropriate exercises and repertoire;
  • describe key characteristics and benefits of a variety of leading contemporary vocal pedagogies; and 
  • give examples of exercises contained within the various pedagogies examined.
Curriculum and Courses

Required Courses (8 credits):

  • PSVC-110: Elements of Vocal Technique (2 credits)
  • PSVC-321: Vocal Pedagogy (2 credits)
  • PSVC-422: Vocal Pedagogy 2 (2 credits)
  • PSVC-450: Comparative Vocal Pedagogy (2 credits)

Electives (choose any combination of courses up to 4 credits):

  • ILVC-260: Piano Accompanying Techniques for Vocalists (1 credit)
  • ISKB-111: Keyboard Fundamentals (1 credit)
  • ISKB-221: Keyboard Class 1 for Music Education Majors (1 credit)
  • ISKB-231: Keyboard Concepts for Music Therapists (1 credit)
  • PM-330: The Private Studio Teacher (2 credits)
  • PSH-238: Awareness Training for Musicians (1 credit)
  • PSH-240: Body Mapping for Musicians 1 (1 credit)
  • PSVC-131: American Diction for Singers (2 credits)

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