Professional Voice Users

Resource for those with a special interest

Wicklund, K. (2010). Singing Voice Rehabilitation:
A Guide for the Voice Teacher and Speech-
Language Pathologist. Delmar.
 Types of Professional Voice Users
Vocalists
Singers
Singing teachers and therapists
Voice Professionals
Stage, screen and TV actors
Radio and TV personalities
Announcers
Other Professional Voice Users
Teachers, salespersons, SLPs, etc
Who works with the PVU?

Schneider and Sataloff, (2007)

Case History
 Voice Symptom History
Distinguish between speaking voice and
singing/performing voice when establishing
symptom history
 Details of Vocal Activities
What is the professional/performance activity?
acting, singing, public speaking, recitation, etc.
Genre of music for a singer
jazz, classical, rock, country, etc
Classification of voice
soprano, mezzo-soprano, alto, tenor, baritone/bass
Range of singing activities
Solo, choral, both (if so, are the ranges similar)
Performance environment
physical space, audience size, etc
 Professional Activities and Goals of
Client
Professional status or goals (students)
Vocalist vs. music teacher vs. music therapist
Professional singer, serious amateur
 Vocal Use Patterns
Distinguish typical communication activities
from professional/performance activities
Get a clear idea about frequency, intensity and
type of practice and performance

NOTE: Student vocalists may be singing more

than a working professional!
 Vocal Training
Is there a history of training?
If so,
How long?
Currently in training?
What type?
Different instructors?
 Auditory Perceptual Evaluation
Separately evaluate speaking voice and
singing/performing voice
Collect good samples of each type of task
Collect singing samples within genre and with
something familiar to client
 Remember
Professional voice users are prone to
developing the range of voice problems that
others develop.
So, dont simply assume that problems are
always due to vocal use patterns!
 Management Considerations
DO NOT ignore the speaking voice when
working with a vocalist
Same instrument used for both speaking and
singing
Healthy singing patterns may not be accompanied
by healthy general vocal patterns
These points need to be clearly articulated to the
client
Personality factors associated with the
performer
 Management Considerations
Avoid straining while attempting to produce
character voices
Avoid performing during times of upper airway
illness
Avoid out of range roles
Prioritize vocal demands
Use amplification of possible
Use marking techniques for rehearsals
Allow adequate warm-up and warm-down
activities
 Management Considerations
Be willing to observe clients in their typical
performance space
Be willing to consult with other professionals
Be willing to admit what you dont know
 Suggestions for those with minimal
background in music/singing
Find trustworthy professionals in your area for
referral or personal training
Take or observe some voice lessons