Goal Setting for the Singing Voice Specialist: A Practical Framework for Working with Singers

Objective: Singers experiencing vocal setbacks, either due to vocal injury, or physical/mechanical functioning, may seek out help to return to baseline performance from either a speech-language pathologist experienced in singing voice or from a knowledgeable voice teacher who collaborates with the voice care team—a “singing voice specialist” (SVS). The SVS must quickly assess the singer’s abilities in terms of strength and weaknesses, and provide a plan to assist the singer according to their overarching goals of care. When specific areas for growth are targeted in a measurable, achievable, and relevant way, goals can be reached within a timely manner. Effective goal writing for the long-term, short-term and individual sessions becomes critical for providing an infrastructure for organizing these highly specific lessons.

Methods: In this interactive workshop, participants will learn practical tools for creating SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound) goals to assist singers in efficiently returning to performance. Using a case study, participants will learn to collect information from singers via written and verbal correspondence, interviewing and singing tasks to assess target areas. Participants will write their own goals to use during the lesson time in order to effectively and productively assist their singers in improving their vocal wellbeing and technique. A handout will be given featuring the key points of the presentation.

Results and Conclusions: Participants will leave with a better understanding of how to address issues in the voice studio in a structured, well-organized, and optimal manner.

Rachel B. Goldenberg, DMA, MClSc CF-SLP, Garden State Rehab, Fairview, NJ.

Brittani Farrell, MM, MS CCC-SLP, Lotus Voice Studio, New York, NY.