University Diversity in Music with Matt Edwards

The Voice Teacher Podcast

Summary

In this conversation, Aimee Geddes interviews Matt Edwards, an associate professor at Shenandoah University, about his innovative work in voice pedagogy, particularly focusing on pop rock music. They discuss the development of unique degree programs, the importance of diversity in music education, and the challenges faced by contemporary music educators. Matt shares insights into the curriculum for both master's and doctorate programs, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and the integration of various musical styles. The conversation also touches on the decline in music enrollment and the implications for the future of music education. In this conversation, Matt Edwards discusses the evolving landscape of music education, highlighting the rising costs of higher education, the impact of technology, and the importance of quality control in online learning. He emphasizes the need for adaptability in musical theater training and the role of voice science in teaching. The conversation also touches on the significance of embracing diversity in vocal expression and the necessity of understanding the human experience through song.

Find us at:

www.ivtom.org

https://www.su.edu

https://www.edwardsvoice.com

www.breakthrough-studios.com

Takeaways

MattEdwards has been instrumental in developing a pop rock program at Shenandoah University. The first master's degree in contemporary commercial music voice pedagogy was established at Shenandoah. Shenandoah's doctorate program is open to singers of all styles, promoting inclusivity. The curriculum includes anatomy, pedagogy, and technology classes for voice training. Students are encouraged to explore diverse methodologies in teaching voice. The master's program offers a flexible format for in-person and online learning. Diversity in music education is crucial for connecting with various communities. Cultural elitism has historically influenced music education in the U.S. There is a concerning decline in enrollment in music programs nationwide. The conversation around the value and cost of higher education is becoming increasingly important. Rising costs in higher education are often unrelated to education quality. Technology has created new opportunities for music education outside traditional institutions. Quality control in online music education is crucial for student success. Voice science should inform teaching but not dominate the learning experience. Musical theater training must adapt to current industry trends and demands. Unique vocal qualities are essential for marketability in the music industry. Singers should be taught to communicate the human experience through song. There is no absolute truth in vocal pedagogy; biases from the past must be reevaluated. Diversity in vocal expression enriches the learning environment for all singers. Mental health and vocal health improve when singers receive instruction aligned with their goals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nat Edwards and Shenandoah University 03:11 Building a Pop Rock Program at Shenandoah 06:04 Innovative Degree Programs in Voice Pedagogy 09:09 Curriculum Overview for Masters and Doctorate Programs 12:06 Flexibility in Learning: In-Person and Online Options 15:01 The Need for Diversity in Music Education 17:56 Researching Cultural Elitism in Music Education 21:08 The Decline of Music Enrollment and Its Implications 24:11 Future Directions for Music Education 27:38 The Rising Costs of Higher Education 29:43 The Impact of Technology on Music Education 34:00 The Role of Voice Science in Teaching 37:10 Adapting to Trends in Musical Theater 41:20 Embracing Diversity in Vocal Expression