Publication Date

2016-05-25

Availability

Open access

Embargo Period

2016-05-25

Degree Type

Doctoral Essay

Degree Name

Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)

Department

Vocal Performance (Music)

Date of Defense

2016-03-30

First Committee Member

Esther Jane Hardenbergh

Second Committee Member

Robynne Redmon

Third Committee Member

Kevin Short

Fourth Committee Member

Rachel L. Lebon

Fifth Committee Member

Maria Fenty Denison

Abstract

Current literature available in the subject of Body Mapping for singers tends to be very detailed and involved, requiring a large amount of study and time to grasp the concepts contained in the literature. This is partly why many voice teachers do not use Body Mapping as a tool in their studios. Another reason is because there are many different definitions of the term “Body Mapping” available in literature and on the web. This study defines “Body Mapping” as a supportive study that was developed by William Conable as an outgrowth of the Alexander Technique and other mind-body relationship methods. As of the date of this essay, there is a need to create a simple, hands-on guide for voice teachers to use in their studios. This guide, contained in the essay, is intended to be a quick reference for ideas contained in the concepts of Body Mapping as a supplement to the basic requirements of healthy classical voice technique. These basic requirements are defined in the essay as alignment, breathing, and resonance. Suggestions for further research are included at the end of the essay. An appendix at the end of the essay provides information about the current course offerings in Body Mapping related studies in the top 25 Music Schools in the U.S. A second appendix provides the exercises described in the narrative in a quick reference table format, with page numbers and concepts clearly labeled.

Keywords

Body Mapping; vocal pedagogy; singers; alignment; breath; resonance

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