Voice Methods (MUS 158)

Short Research Paper

Project: Do some outside reading on the voice or vocal technique and write a short paper summarizing the contents. This paper should be 3-4 pages double spaced, 12 point type, one inch margins and should encompass the following information.

I. Preparation:

a. Choose a topic about the voice that interests you.

b. Go to the library and locate a book or journal article of some length or detail (1 chapter of a book or a 3-4 page article)

c. Read this article or chapter

II. What to write:

a. State your “thesis” – i.e. why are you interested in this subject. This can be a personal statement – ½-1 page.

b. Cite the Article/book. APA or MLA are acceptable. http://www.wcu.edu/11732.asp

c. Verity the author by giving a brief paragraph (6-7 sentences minimum) describing her or his background and why we should consider her/him to be an expert. Often at the end of an article, the author’s biography is stated or the dust cover of a book will have it or Google the name and you may find info about her/him.

d. Describe the article (summarize it) 2-3 pages.

e. Conclusion – What did you learn? Was your curiosity satisfied?

III. Due Dates

a. Due Date: Monday, March 8

b. Format: Paper Submission only

IV. Rubric

Preparation	Well designed topic/thought through carefully	A—B+
	Fairly well designed	B—C+
	Haphazardly thought through/slapped together	C---F
Article/Book	Perfect article/book for thesis	A—B+
	Good Article/book for thesis	B—C+
	Off the mark	C---F
Written Work	Well written, well documented sound author	A—B+
	Writing OK, documentation Spotty, author out dated, or Poor reputation	B—C+
	Poor writing, poor Documentation, poor author	C---F

TOPIC IDEAS: You are not limited to these. However, if you are unsure if your idea is appropriate contact me.

Cambiata voice

Aging voice, allergies and the voice, or other vocal health issue

What is vibrato?

How to preserve the longevity of my voice

Extended techniques for the voice (scream techniques)

Non-Western Vocal Techniques (chord singing)

Non-Classical vocal technique (pop/jazz/broadway)

Teaching AND the Voice

Choral techniques which foster healthy singing

RESEARCH HELP:

The Writing Center will help you at ANY stage of your writing project. You need to make an appointment. Here is their web site: http://www.wcu.edu/11545.asp

If you want to talk to a reference librarian here is the research assistance web site: http//www.wcu.edu/1612.asp

Alessia Zanin-Yost is the College of Fine and Performing Arts Librarian liaison. She may be able to assist you as well.