West Omaha Studio Downtown Location Virtual Studio
So just what IS vocology?
Broadly speaking, vocology is the study of vocalization. More specifically, it is "the science and practice of voice habilitation which includes evaluation, diagnosis, and behavioral intervention." Vocologists build and strengthen voices to meet specific needs, whether from someone's personal goals or from the requirements of their activities or career. Objectives include helping speakers and singers find the ideal voice for their needs, teach clients how how to feel good when making vocal sounds, increasing vocal efficiency in tandem with artistry, building stamina and range to maximize longevity of voice production, heightening their awareness of the sensations felt during various vocalizations to effect change, and utilizing reliable and cost-effective tools for practice and assessement. (Vocology - The Science and Practice of Voice Habilitation - by Ingo Titze and Katherine Verdolini Abbott).
And what does a Singing Voice Specialist do?
A Singing Voice Specialist is a singing teacher with special training equipping them to practice in a medical environment with patients who have sustained vocal injury. Most singing voice specialists have a degree in voice performance or pedagogy with additional science and clinical training (The Voice Foundation).
What happens at a vocology session?
New clients will complete an intake form and have a conversation about goals and history. Then, a plan for number of sessions will be discussed and scheduling confirmed. Clients will work on discovering a responsive breath, finding their ideal voice, maximizing resonance, and integrating those things when speaking or singing using material relevant to their careers or goals.
Do I need a doctor's or speech language pathologist's referral?
No - though it can be helpful to have diagnostics given the nature of the issue. I may recommend clients to a physician if specific information seems necessary for our work.
Is special equipment needed?
Nothing fancy! We'll use various straws, cups, excerpts from written text, scores, select phone apps, etc., depending upon goals.
How often should I schedule sessions and how many will I need?
Changing vocal habits, and building strength and stamina involves fine motor skills. Supervised practice during sessions and the steering of the client's self-awareness of sensations are built into each session. Frequent, mini-practice times in between sessions will determine how many will be needed.
- It may be important to have two vocology sessions per week during the first week or two.
- Clients can expect to experience solid results following 4 - 6 sessions.
Reach your goals!
Diane Owens Voice, LLC