Episode #104
Vocal Care for Performers
How can singers, performers, or professional voice users take charge of their vocal health, prevent injury, and build a strong support team? In this episode, Jennifer sits down with licensed speech pathologist and singing teacher, Sarah K Brown, to discuss the intersection of vocal health, rehabilitation, and performance. Sarah shares her unique career journey from opera training to speech pathology and, unexpectedly, into private singing coaching—highlighting how her clinical skillset allows her to approach vocal training with both rehabilitative and preventative expertise. They dive into the stigma surrounding vocal injuries, the emotional toll of vocal setbacks, and how common irregularities actually are among professional singers. Sarah breaks down common vocal injuries, the difference between an ENT, laryngologist, speech pathologist, and voice teacher, and how to find a team that supports your individual needs. They also dispel common vocal health myths and share practical vocal health tips, from muscle tension release exercises to must-have items in a vocal health kit. Whether you’re an early-career performer looking to build your voice care team or a seasoned singer navigating vocal demands, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways on maintaining vocal longevity and finding the right teachers and medical professionals for your needs. Tune in for an empowering conversation that will help you feel more informed, confident, and in control of your vocal well-being.
About Our Guest
Sarah K. Brown is a singing teacher and licensed speech pathologist based in NYC. Before launching her own voice studio and going into full-time private work, Sarah maintained a clinical caseload at the Voice Center of Mount Sinai for 5 years, as well as an adjunct faculty position at Pace University. Her research has covered a wide variety of topics in voice, and she has presented nationally at the Fall Voice Conference. Sarah also regularly teaches singing masterclasses, most recently with Yale University School of Drama. Her specialized combination of singing background, performance experience, and clinical expertise have enabled her to serve Broadway performers, Metropolitan Opera singers, and TV/film actors. She holds a BM in Vocal Performance from Chapman University and an MS in Speech-Language Pathology from Northwestern University.