Vocal Presence

 THE VOCAL JOURNEY

We come into this world making sound – the purest of cries, announcing to the world, “ I am here.”  How this “I am here” plays out throughout our life over the years creates a tapestry of story and sound.

 My experience has shown me that working with and exploring one’s voice can be an intimate endeavor.  One of my early voice teachers, Merita Gunter of the Roy Hart Theatre, described the human voice as “the mirror and the muscle of the soul.”  My encounter in my early 30s with Merita and other distinguished teachers of the Roy Hart Theatre changed my life.  I had already encountered the work of psychologist Carl Jung and was committed to a journey toward individuation.  A deep exploration of my voice offered an experiential path toward healing and wholeness, allowing me to move toward authenticity in my personal and professional life. 

VOCAL PRESENCE

Our voice and our relationship to it reveal how we think and feel about ourselves and can impact how we are perceived by others. In my experience in the corporate/academic sector leading Leadership Presence programs, as well as in my work as a music therapist, I have witnessed many people, particularly women, struggle with vocal problems. Confidence and endurance suffer and can feed a “less than” sense of self. Hindered by a reluctance to speak up, a disconnection of voice from one’s breath and body, and blockages related to life story are among the challenges that Vocal Presence work can address. In this work, we explore and discover the voice to be:
  • A container of physical, emotional and psychological energy
  • An instrument connecting our breath, body and imagination
  • A reflection of the depth of our intentions
  • A representation of our credibility and authenticity
The voice can be thought of as a musical instrument – “the first instrument of mankind” — as described by members of the Roy Hart Theater. Like a piano or a violin, it contains many concrete characteristics that can be explored and practiced to achieve a vital, authentic Vocal Presence. The diagram below articulates the scope of this way of working.   Vocal Presence diagram

To develop a strong, authentic vocal presence, individuals are invited to bring curiosity, commitment, compassion, and a sense of vulnerability as we ask and explore these questions:

  • What is your relationship to your voice?
  • Does it convey credibility and project your most authentic, confident self?
  • Do you feel strong when you speak in a group? Are you able to command the room with your presence?
  • How do you convey warmth as well as authority when you speak?

Vocal Presence work is offered in groups and in individual coaching.

Group work is offered in workshop and retreat settings and can be customized to meet the specific needs and goals of the group. Reflection, dialogue and journaling complement the experiential component, as participants apply their learnings to the situations and relationships that constitute their lives.

Individual work takes place in my studio.

The work is fun, challenging, and can be transforming.

ENDORSEMENTS

I have co-facilitated as well as participated in workshops with Patricia.  She is very skilled – well prepared, effective and passionate.  As my personal speech coach, she guided me through the process of finding my authentic voice.   She gave me the tools to speak with conviction and energy to large audiences.  She has the professional training and personal sensitivity to bring out the best in people.

 –   Kate Chappell – Artist, Business Woman Co-founder of Tom’s of Maine

Patricia’s expertise and gentle way empowered me to find my voice and to embody images and characters that truly express my soul. I never imagined advancing this far!”

–  Frederica Chapman, M.S. Founder, Theater of the Earth

I was fortunate enough to participate in Patricia’s workshop “Coming Home To Voice,” at a recent retreat.  It was FANTASTIC!!  Patricia is an engaging, encouraging and inspiring teacher.  The workshop was a TON of fun as we got to express ourselves through improvisation with voice and movement.  I HIGHLY recommend you attend one of her workshops!

– Vanessa Johnston

Patricia helped me exceed my expectations for my performance art. Her exemplary skills in voice training were invaluable. She facilitates what you need, when you need it and makes the creative process fun and thoughtful. I look forward to continued work with Patricia and highly recommend her services.

– Leilani Henry