Demystifying trans*+ voice education: The Transgender Singing Voice Conference

Abstract

Trans*+ is an inclusive, expansive, and fluid term that refers to a population that encompasses people who are transgender, third gender, non-gender, two-spirit or any other identity that is not cisgender. Trans*+ topics are often considered taboo or exotic, which manifests in society as an enforced ignorance that creates a shroud of mystery around the trans*+ community. While music educators’ attitudes toward working with trans*+ students are generally positive, many educators are not sure how to teach trans*+ singers. This case study on the Transgender Singing Voice Conference 2017, an academic and pedagogical gathering, explores the issues of importance identified by conference attendees and how the conference format addressed those issues. Data analysis identified important themes of interest related to the vocal production, pedagogy, physiology, and identity of trans*+ singers. An overwhelming majority (95%) of participants stated they acquired new knowledge at the conference. Representation and intersectionality were topics not adequately addressed according to the attendees. Findings indicate that trans*+ attendees and allies were empowered due to the demystification of trans*+ experiences. The conference provided a space for trans*+ singers to learn about their voices and for their allies to gather resources.