PS III PROFESSIONAL INQUIRY PROJECT

SEPTEMEBER DECEMBER 2014

TOPIC:
PD Project:
A study into the physical development and appropriate pedagogical practices of
teaching the young voice, specifically in regards to singers aged 5 12 years old.
A. Rationale
As someone who teaches both classroom music and young childrens
choirs, I feel that this is an area which is especially pertinent for me to have great
understanding and knowledge in. I currently possess some experience in this area,
but would like to take this project as an opportunity to further explore literature
related to teaching young singers, as well as to attend Professional Development
workshops related to this area. I would also like to take a formal look into the
study of vocal pedagogy for children and the way in which it corresponds to
physical development of young children, for physiologically their instrument is
different than an adult instrument, and understanding the way in which is differs
will help me become a stronger teacher. Ultimately, my goal is to diversify my
range of teaching strategies for young singers, and to increase my general
knowledge base in order to help my students and choristers achieve maximum
growth, both in technical skill level and overall musicianship.
B. Statement of Focus
This Professional Inquiry Project will be a study examining the physical
development and appropriate pedagogical practices of teaching the young voice,
specifically in regards to singers aged 5 12 years old.
C. Related Literature
The following are a few of the primary resources which I will be examining:
Sound Advice: Becoming a Better Childrens Choir Conductor, by
Jean Ashworth Bartle (2012)
The Kodaly Method I: Comprehensive Music Education, by Lois
Choksy (1998)
Additional resources will be added as they become available. This may include
interviews with local teachers who are considered experts in this area of study.

D.

Process of Development
Reading, note taking, and critical examination of related literature (see above)
Attendance at Alberta Music Conference; workshops in teaching vocal pedagogy
Conducting the University of Lethbridge Childrens Choir, under the mentorship
of Kathy Matkin-Clapton, sharing feedback and strategies throughout the duration
of the semester.
Assistant conducting the Mike Mountain Horse Elementary School Junior Choir,
under the mentorship of Elizabeth Nevels, sharing feedback and strategies
throughout the duration of the semester.

E. Products of the PD Project

Creation of a handbook titled Vocal Pedagogy, Teaching Strategies, and
Rehearsal Techniques for Young Singers (Ages 5 12).
o This handbook will contain the information that I learned
throughout the duration of my inquiry, and will be available for me
to reference in future teaching.
Conducting the U of L Childrens Choir at their Christmas Concert on
November 29, 2014
Conducting a piece with the Mike Mountain Horse Jr. Choir at their
Christmas Gala on December 16, 2014
F. Timeline
September 1, 2014 December 19, 2014
Alberta Music Conference- October 24 and 25
Handbook to be completed by December 19, 2014
All readings to be completed by December 1, 2014
Conducting Concerts:
o Childrens Choir: November 29, 2014
o MMH Jr. Choir: December 16, 2014