Module Code - Title:

MU4043 - VOCAL PEDAGOGY

Year Last Offered:

2025/6

Hours Per Week:

Lecture

2

Lab

1

Tutorial

1

Other

0

Private

6

Credits

6

Grading Type:

N

Prerequisite Modules:

Rationale and Purpose of the Module:

This module is an introduction to the expanding, interdisciplinary field of vocal pedagogy and will provide the student with an overview of arts based and scientific approaches to vocal pedagogy. The student will critically engage with key pedagogical texts and discuss current research in the field.

Syllabus:

This module will offer an introduction to contemporary, arts based and scientific perspectives on vocal pedagogy, surveying key Western pedagogical approaches and presenting recent research in the field. The module content will provide the student with an opportunity to critically engage with the interdisciplinary perspectives that enrich discourse in this area on an ongoing basis, offering an informed foundation in care of the professional voice.

Learning Outcomes:

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

Identify key perspectives within the arc of Western vocal pedagogy. Demonstrate a knowledge of texts relevant to vocal pedagogy and anatomy. Develop the ability to critically engage with pedagogical concepts related to the singing voice and its use in different contexts.

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

Contextualise their primary field of practical study. Demonstrate an understanding of pedagogical techniques and approaches. Engage with key concepts through class discussion.

Psychomotor (Physical Skills)

Apply important aspects of concepts studied to embodied performance and healthy singing.

How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:

This module will be taught through a mixture of lectures, tutorials and performance based laboratories. It will have traditional academic outcomes supplemented by an arts practice approach, giving the subject area an embodied relevance necessary for healthy engagement with best, healthy vocal practice. As such this module has UL graduate attributes at its core, focusing on knowledge based outputs supplemented with a embodied experience rooted in collaborative creative practice. Students will be able to articulate their understanding of the western art music and dance tradition in a culturally engaged and responsible manner.

Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):

Prime Texts:

Callaghan, J. (2014) Singing and Science: Body, Brain and Voice, , Oxford: Compton Publishing Ltd.

Miller, R. (1996) The Structure of Singing: System and Art in Vocal Technique, Belmont: , Schirmer Thomson Learning.

McCoy, S. (2012) Your Voice: An Inside View , Delaware: Inside View Press

Sataloff, R. (2006) Vocal Health and Pedagogy: Science and Assessment, , Abingdon: Plural Publishing.

Sell, K. (2005) (2005) The Disciplines of Vocal Pedagogy: Towards an Holistic Approach, , Aldershot: Ashgate.

Other Relevant Texts:

Bunch, M. (2009) Dynamics of the Singing Voice , Vienna: Springer-Verlag.

Chapman, J. (2012) Singing and Teaching Singing: A Holistic Approach to Classical Voice , San Diego: Plural Publishing.

Gates et al. (2013) (2013) The Owner's Manual to the Voice: A Guide for Singers and Other Professional Voice Users , New York: Oxford University Press.

Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:

Semester(s) Module is Offered:

Autumn

Module Leader:

hannah.fahey@ul.ie