Part 1: Evaluation of the Singing Voice and the Role of the SLP

Presented by Sarah L. Schneider

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Evaluation of Voice Disorders is a specialized area within the field of Speech-Language Pathology and requires specific skill and training, often beyond what is obtained during typical training of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP). Evaluating the injured singing voice takes this concept a step further, requiring not only knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, and science of voice production and vocal pathology but also knowledge and skill in the area of vocal pedagogy and performance. This course will cover considerations for scope of practice and training of the SLP in addition to an overview of special considerations in the evaluation of this population.

Meet your instructor

Sarah L. Schneider

Sarah L. Schneider, MS, CCC-SLP, Assistant Clinical Professor and Speech-Language Pathology Director in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at the University of California San Francisco. She is part of the interdisciplinary voice care team at the UCSF Voice and Swallowing Center, specializing in…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Scope of Practice and Current Thinking

1. Scope of Practice and Current Thinking

This chapter will focus on defining the role of the Speech-Language Pathologist in evaluating and treating the singing voice, including considerations for scope of practice and training, differentiating habilitation and rehabilitation, and the roles of the various professionals involved in caring for a singer.

Terminology and Requirements of the Vocalist

2. Terminology and Requirements of the Vocalist

It is the responsibility of the Speech-Language Pathologist to understand the terminology, training, vocal demand, and physical requirements of the singer on and off stage. This knowledge may cross various genres of music, styles within the genre, and levels of vocal training and performance. Understanding these factors is crucial not only in guiding evaluation and treatment but in building patient rapport and trust.

Singing Voice Evaluation

3. Singing Voice Evaluation

A comprehensive medical and behavioral singing voice evaluation is crucial in identifying the underlying problem, contributing factors and understanding how these manifest. This evaluation is inline with a typical voice evaluation with the addition of key elements specifically focused for the singer and singing voice. In addition to the specialized nature of the evaluation, specific consideration must be given to counseling the singer on evaluation findings and synthesizing information for development of a treatment plan.