The voice change process can be a challenging experience for young singers. Episode 32 of ChoralEd discusses musical accommodations that can support singers through their respective voice change. Musical accommodations occur when the choral educator makes changes to the musical material to better support their singers. (1) Octave displacement is a common accommodation where the […]
choral education
ChoralEd: The Female Changing Voice
In the adventure that is the adolescent voice much attention is given to the male changing voice. While the male voice change is more drastic in terms of pitch fluctuation, the female voice change deserves equal attention. In episode 31, Dr. Jamea Sale discusses the phases of the female voice change and provides resources to […]
ChoralEd: The Boy’s Changing Voice, Part 3 – Maintaining Boys’ Interest in Singing
In Part 3 of Dr. Terry J. Barham’s discussion of the boy’s changing voice, Dr. Barham shares strategies for maintaining a boy’s interest in singing. Recommendations include, To watch ChoralEd, Episode 30 on YouTube click HERE.
ChoralEd: The Boy’s Changing Voice, Part 2 – Determining Voice Parts
In Part 2 of our three-part series on the boy’s changing voice Dr. Terry J. Barham provides insight into the voice test process. When determining a boy’s voice part, Dr. Barham suggests the teacher establish a welcoming environment, completing the voice test individually (although group settings are also acceptable). To begin, identify the student’s spoken […]
ChoralEd: The Boy’s Changing Voice, Part 1 – The Voice Change
The boy’s changing voice is challenging to navigate for both teacher and student. In this three-part series, Dr. Terry J. Barham discusses strategies for working with adolescent boys during the voice change process. In Part 1, Dr. Barham discusses the developmental vocal changes that occur during adolescence and encourages open communication with students about their […]
ChoralEd: Alternative Sight-Reading Activities
Daily sight-reading in the choral classroom is a beneficial instructional practice that promotes music literacy skills. However, this pedagogical approach is, at times, disinteresting to students due to the repetitive use of exercises from a methods book. While consistency is important when teaching music literacy, variety is also beneficial, providing students with a new and […]