Using Your Voice as an Instrument of Care
This course will provide the background knowledge and practical skills caregivers need in order to gain confidence in using their voice with purpose in care
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This course is for anyone who would like to start to gain confidence in using their singing voice in care contexts
Why this course is important?
Singing in care settings can be a powerful tool for comfort, connection and expression. Despite the value of this skill many are intimidated by the idea of using their voice; thinking that their voice is not nice enough, that they need more skill or that they should only sing if they’ve had formal training. This course will empower students to reclaim their voices and use singing as a tool in their caregiving practices and in their own self-care.
After this course students will be prepared to:
- Describe how the voice and singing have been purposefully used by humans for centuries
- Explain how the voice is produced and identify the basic anatomy involved
- Discuss the social and psychological considerations involved in using your voice
- Name the physiological, social, and mental health benefits of using your voice
- Demonstrate several exercises for strengthening and exploring your voice
- Acquire specific practical activities for using your voice in a care setting and for self care
6-10 key topic areas that will be covered in 10 modules
- Introduction
- The voice in human history
- The mechanics of the voice
- The psychology of the voice
- The benefits of using your voice
- The breath
- Singing 101
- Strengthen your voice
- Using your voice purposefully
- Implement
Supporting Materials
- Students will be provided with a handbook describing the anatomy of the voice, a sample vocal warmup, vocal exercises, and a detailed description of specific vocal activities they can perform in a care setting or their own self care.
- A video with a sample vocal warm up (8-10 minutes)
Your Instructor
Canadian soprano and accredited music therapist Lesley Bouza is happiest when she is using music to connect to others, whether on the stage or in health care settings.
Lesley completed her vocal performance studies at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and has relished her experiences performing with musical ensembles such as The Elora Singers, Les Violons du Roy, The Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, The Nathaniel Dett Chorale and The Swingle Singers.
In her work as a music therapist, Lesley is passionate about the potential of music to support well-being in various and diverse client populations, with a particular interest in using music to support mental health for individuals and groups from every age and walk of life.