Beyond the Binary – Best Practices for Affirming Trans and Gender Expansive Singers
This presentation shares the results of Butler University’s Beyond the Binary working group’s research and programming initiatives in support of trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive singers. Presenters will share the results of a 2025 survey of teachers and administrators at voice, opera, musical theater, and choral programs in the United States. The survey gauges institutions’ and independent studios’ embrace of trans-affirming practices such as octave-neutral casting, use of gender-neutral terms in choral and pedagogy classrooms, and visible trans and queer representation in faculty, repertoire, guest artists, and theatrical programming. It also asks respondents to identify challenges and gaps in the current learning landscape. The presentation will also share observations and participant feedback from the 2025 Singing Beyond the Binary performance and professional development event; a unique dual-purpose gathering of trans and gender expansive performers and educators who work with this community of artists.