Page 120 - Classical Singer magazine 2019 Fall University Issue

Owning Your Vocal Health
120 Classical Singer | September/October 2019
Canceling When Sick
Sing only if you feel you can accurately represent yourself and not do additional damage. Anytime you have pain when you are singing, or if you have felt a sudden pain and change of vocal technique, immediately stop singing until you can be evaluated by an ENT.
Medication
Pay attention to side e ects from prescriptions, over-the-counter meds, vitamins, and supplements. All medications can a ect the voice, and it varies from person to person. Do your research and experiment as to what gives you the best relief with minimal drawback. A trusted doctor can help guide you.
Reflux
Gastroesophageal re ux disease (GERD), commonly known as heartburn, occurs when stomach acid
travels back up the esophagus, irritating the lining. Laryngopharyngeal re ux (LPR) is when those same acids travel far enough up the esophageal tube to wash into the vocal tract and larynx, causing irritation, excessive mucus, and swelling. Untreated re ux can become a serious health condition.
Diet/Exercise/Sleep
Be disciplined about your health. Poor eating habits and excessive weight can lead to re ux and an overall lack of energy and can even impede your breathing. Lack of exercise can leave you unprepared for stage demands and lead to health problems down the road. The goal is not to be thin; the goal is to be healthy. Poor sleeping habits leave you vulnerable to a weakened immune system and make you more likely to get sick.
Stress
Dealing with rejection, working away from home and loved ones, singing in high-pressure situations, and constantly dealing with criticism can add intense levels of stress to a singer. It is important to nd ways to cope: trusted friends or therapists, outside interests that give your life balance, breaks when you need it, and a healthy perspective on dealing with rejection.
Knowing Your Voice
Empower yourself by having basic knowledge of your own voice. Ask questions, seek out information, and speak intelligently with your doctor. Be able to give doctors as much information as possible and follow their directions implicitly. If you don’t trust or agree with the advice given to you by your doctor, nd one you do trust or at least get a second opinion.
Columbus State University
Schwob School of Music Voice Studies
Alumni
Finalist, 2012 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions; San Francisco Opera; Houston Grand Opera; Glyndebourne Festival (England)
Faculty
Earl Coleman
William and Isabelle Curry Eminent Scholar Chair in Voice
Michelle Murphy DeBruyn Ianthe Marini
The Paul S. and Jean R. Amos Distinguished Chair for Choral Activities
Joshua May Debbie Anderson
Maureen McKay, soprano
Metropolitan Opera, Komische Oper Berlin
Michael Sumuel, baritone
Paula Sides, soprano
English Opera Company
Gwendolyn Reid, mezzo soprano
Universität der Künste, Berlin, Germany
Kimberli Render, soprano
First Place Winner, Denver Lyric Opera Guild Competition
choral | studio | opera
Degrees
BA in Music | BM in Music Performance | MM in Music Performance BM in Music Education | Artist Diploma
Awards
Over $800,000 in music scholarships annually
Woodruff Award: For entering undergraduate students. Winners receive full tuition, room and board, plus a $5,000 stipend. Video applications due March 1
Assistantships: Tuition plus stipend for qualifying graduates
For audition and scholarship information, please visit our website.
ColumbusState.edu/music