I can't resist putting my 2 cents in (that's 2 Euro cents, as I live in Germany). I work with one of the most respected and beloved teachers in Germany, and although she occasionally reads a few books and articles about voice studies, she is not really knowledgeable about the physics of singing, nor is she interested in becoming so. She studied primarily in Rome, the "old-fashioned Italian way", where no one ever spoke about the science of singing, they just showed you how to do it. My teacher sang on all the great stages of the world, is a fantastic musician (she accompanies her own lessons, including difficult Wagner, Strauss, Berg, etc.), and really knows what works. I have to add that most of her students are already professional singers, and almost none of them are academics, so perhaps that is why this "lack of knowledge" isn't important! I, however, am VERY interested in the physics involved, and am hoping to catch one of Mr. Miller's classes in Salzburg. Another voice-teacher friend of mine just got Mr. Miller's last book, and I'm next on the waiting list. This brings me to a personal question: I'm a dramatic soprano who has sung big roles in Germany for the last 15 years, and am preparing for what I'll do what I can't sing (perhaps 10 years from now?). I came from the acting end of theater rather than from the musical side, but have been very successful in helping colleagues with some vocal problems. However, I think some degree of training in vocal pedagogy would be a good addition to my experience if I should become a teacher. Can anyone recommend a good graduate program for someone like me? Perhaps one that I could fit around a performing schedule? Or maybe to start with some seminars, summer workshops, etc? Thanks for your suggestions, Cynthia Szymkowicz
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