Wholehearted Voice Pedagogy

Wholehearted Voice Pedagogy: An Integrative Approach to Training Vocal Artists investigates how to develop healthy, equitable, student-teacher relationships in both applied and independent voice lessons. Knitting together research from cognitive science, education, mindfulness, and sports psychology, the book promotes a student-centered approach to teaching that gives singers agency over their vocal expression and buoys teacher well-being.

Divided into two parts, the book begins by examining the student-teacher relationship. It explores the history of this relationship, analyses contemporary opportunities and challenges impacting students and teachers, reflects on four holistic pillars of teaching, and offers recommendations for developing healthy boundaries and clear communication with students. The second part focuses on fostering a singer’s artistry, covering such topics as selecting repertoire with the student, examining motor skill learning and various practice modalities, cultivating vibrant performances through artistic research, and creating an equitable rubric for assessment. Throughout the book, research is supported by anecdotes and insights from a diverse roster of Western classical, musical theatre, and CCM voice teachers.

Synthesized with reflective questions, recommendations for further reading, and a robust online companion, Wholehearted Voice Pedagogy presents an integrative approach to instruction that empowers singing artists and engenders connected, gratifying teaching. This book is a valuable resource for early-career and established voice teachers alike, and offers vibrant resources for vocal pedagogy courses.