Choral Caffeine: Aging Singers

As the baby-boom generation enters retirement, the U.S. will struggle with new medical, societal, and economic realities.  As choral conductors, we, too, will see changes in our adult choirs, from the smallest church choir to large symphonic choruses.

 

In his article, “The Aging Voice” (MCDA Reporter Spring 2007), Mark Lawley queries six conductors on a variety of topics relative to the senior voice.  After highlighting the experience of the conductors, Mark discusses several elements germane to the aging voice, including:

 

       How to distinguish between vocal aging and vocal abuse

       The psychological effects on the aging singer

       Effective vocal exercises for the aging voice

 

Beyond the valuable technical elements of the article, the human factor is also discussed.  To quote respondent Ron Sayer:

 

Be patient. Be understanding. Do not add to the existing self-consciousness of aging singers but try to make them feel that they are an integral part of the choir. Try to learn as much as you can about the aging process in both men and women. Each gender has unique problems and concerns. Encourage discussion among your singers, especially those of similar gender and age, about what they are experiencing as singers. Above all, be patient and kind.

 

Those who conduct choirs of school-age singers (including some in their undergraduate years) are expected to have a strong understanding of the changing voice. Working with older singers really is just another form of that consideration.

 

(To access the full article, simply click the highlighted title. For additional articles on a dazzling array of choral topics, visit  ChorTeach.)