PVC (XXII Annual Pacific Voice Conference)
Krakow, Poland, April 2014

‘The advantages of a Commonly Accepted Terminology among voice teachers’ 

Abstract:
The advantages of a common accepted terminology among voice teachers

By taking the stand, that the lack of a common accepted terminology among singing teachers presents a major obstacle in the development of singing- and speech techniques, this presentation is intended as a contribution to the voice terminology debate. Many of the terms widely used today have different definitions depending on who are using them, or the definitions are very vague or not there at all. This problem is often ignored, or explained as a cultural necessity caused by the difference between musical genres. But can we not have a clear communication and still keep the diversity in musical genres? The presentation includes examples of what is meant by ‘unclear terminology’, as well as examples from Complete Vocal Institute where a strictly defined terminology makes it possible for teachers to pass on detailed information about a singers technical status, not unlike in a hospitals patient report. Voice professionals meet at conferences like PEVOC. This indicates that we want to learn from each other so we can help singers better. Why then do we accept blurred communication, and how clear can it become?

 

‘Complete Vocal Technique – an introduction to the method and the research’ Cathrine Sadolin

Abstract:
Complete Vocal Technique – an introduction to the method and the research

Fundamental to the method ‘Complete Vocal Technique’ (CVT) is the classification of all human voice sounds into one of four vocal modes named Neutral, Curbing, Overdrive and Edge. The classification is used by professional singers within all musical styles, and has in a period of 20 years proved easy to grasp in both real life situations and also in auditive and visual tests (sound examples and laryngeal images/ Laryngograph waveforms).

The four vocal modes are efficient in pinpointing vocal problems, and form the base of the CVT terminology that makes it possible to classify all sounds the voice can make in great details. The four vocal modes does not only sound and look differently, they are also subject to different rules to secure healthy voice production. What is helpful in one mode may cause voice trouble in another. When singers/speakers respect the rules of the modes, and combine them with elements such as Sound Colours and Effects (Distortion, Growl, Grunt, Vibrato etc.) they can produce all sounds in a healthy way.

Cathrine Sadolin will explain CVT, demonstrate how it is used in practice, if requested by working with voice issues among the audience. Cathrine will also show examples from the research on the subject.