Workshops/Presentations

The Sound Voice Workshop - A Rehabilitation and Training Workshop for Singers

A fun, fast, effective vocal rehabilitation and training program designed especially for singers.

This program is based on voice science and Shelagh’s 20+ years’ experience working with singers. The small, relaxed group atmosphere helps put the fun back into singing.

You will learn about:

  • science of the singing voice
  • how to look after your voice, especially during illness
  • best ways to cope with noise, fatigue, stress
  • the intimate connection between emotions and our voices

You will experience:

  • how to release a voice that feels stuck in the throat
  • immediate ease in the voice through relaxing the tongue, jaw and neck
  • techniques from voice science that connect the breath and voice in a natural way
  • how to use resonance sensations to enhance vocal power, range and ease
  • how to manage the rough spots: register transitions, consonants, high notes
  • the best way to transfer this new voice into your repertoire
  • the fastest, most effective way to warm up your voice

The Sound Voice Workshop provides an intensive weekend of vocal training: 6 hours per day on Saturday and Sunday. There is a late start to accommodate professional performers. Workshops run several times a year at Vancouver General Hospital.

Free voice training manual
As a special feature, participants in the Sound Voice Workshop receive a 50 page manual with extensive information from voice science and a comprehensive guide to all the exercises and facilitation techniques.

Please note...
If you are having voice problems that affect your speaking voice, cause rapid vocal fatigue or marked difficulty singing … or if your voice is getting worse, you need a full voice assessment before coming to the Sound Voice Workshop. You should consult an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor and come to me for a private voice assessment. This input gives you the complete information about your voice that is essential in designing a full and appropriate course of treatment.

Voice therapy: an investment in your voice

One singer remarked, “I didn’t pay anything for my voice so I can afford to learn how to use it.” Because vocal rehabilitation is highly specific it is cost-efficient – a short number of sessions go a long way.

Voice therapy is frequently covered by extended medical benefits (look under ‘speech therapy’). Costs may also be reimbursed through applicable claims with Worksafe BC or ICBC. For professional performers costs are tax deductible.

For current fee schedule
Email sd@shelaghdvies.com
Phone 604.261.4364

Location

C119, Heather Pavilion, Vancouver General Hospital

The entrance is at 2733 Heather Street, half way between 11th and 12th Avenues. Take the elevator to floor Cthen follow signs to C119. There will also be blue signs to ‘Voice Workshop’. Everything points you to the same place. For an online map, click here.

Fallback plan: You won’t get lost … but if you do, go to the information booth at the main entrance of the Jim Pattison Pavilion or dial Security – 84 from a hospital phone – and ask for C119 in Heather Pavilion.

Upcoming Workshops:

Saturday and Sunday, September 25 & 26, 2010, 11 AM - 5 PM
Space in clinics is limited and is offered on first-come, first-served basis.

Feedback from Participants

Shelagh's voice intensive is fantastic! I didn't think I would be able to sing again...or not with comfort and ease. From working with Shelagh, through her voice intensive as well as private sessions, I’ve learned exercises to get my voice feeling strong & healthy again. Shelagh’s like a physiotherapist or personal trainer for the voice...and she’s great at it!
- Suzanna, Singer-Songwriter

I feel like I've been given my voice back because now I'm armed with information against the noise of the world.
- Jenny, singer-songwriter