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Demystifying the Voice

Singing health specialist Dr. Rachael Gates will cover topics from Anatomy through Z-packs in this practical presentation on vocal health. Learn what is actually happening when you "lose your voice,” hear vocal myths debunked, explore diet and lifestyle choices to improve performance, understand common voice pathologies, find out about surgical techniques and precautions to take before undergoing general anesthesia, and discover ways to optimize your speaking voice.

Singers must equip themselves with enough knowledge to clearly convey specific sensations and difficulties with their instrument. Understanding of potential dangers and disorders, familiarity with a variety of medical procedures, and comprehension in various facets of diagnosis and treatments empower singers to "own," just like other musicians, their instrument. The Owner's Manual to the Voice provides singers with the knowledge necessary to communicate effectively and in intelligent terms about their instrument, especially when conversing with medical professionals.

Beginning with an overview of the vocal anatomy, lead author Rachael Gates, and co-authors L. Arick Forrest, and Kerri Obert, proceed through detailed discussions of caring for the voice and common causes of vocal changes and problems before guiding the reader through the process of choosing, talking to, and working with an ENT. They give insights that any professional voice user—whether singer, actor, broadcaster, politician, teacher, preacher, or lawyer—will find helpful if not essential.

Singing Health Specialist, Soprano, and Opera Director Rachael Gates, teaches vocal health to broadcasters, singers, and SLP student clinicians at Michigan State University where she is a member of the MSU Musician's Wellness Team. She holds degrees from Carnegie Mellon University, Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, and a Doctorate of Musical Arts from The Ohio State University. She has taught at Northwestern University, The Hartt School of Music, and has guest-directed operas for Yale University.

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