Southern Miss School of Music to Host Vocal Arts and Science Symposium

Wed, 01/22/2025 - 10:50am | By: Dr. Mike Lopinto

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) School of Music will combine the science of voice and the art of performance when it hosts the bi-annual Dr. Robert H. McCrary Vocal Arts and Science Symposium Jan. 31 - Feb. 1 at the Hattiesburg campus. The symposium is open to members of the National Associations of Teachers of Singing (NATS), the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA), private studio teachers, professional singers and speakers, K-12 teachers, choir members/directors, students and all who have an interest in the vocal arts and science of voice. 

“For anyone who uses their voice in any way—whether as a professional, a hobbyist, or simply an enthusiast—this symposium is for you,” said Dr. Kimberley Davis, professor of voice at Southern Miss and organizer of the event. “I’m especially excited about this year’s lineup and the unique insights from our guest clinicians, which align perfectly with the interests of aspiring students and arts enthusiasts in our community.”

Featured speakers will include two of the nation’s leading pedagogical and voice science experts including Dr. Kourtney Austin, assistant professor of voice at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and Dr. Stephen F. Austin, professor emeritus at University of North Texas and former coordinator of the Texas Center for Performing Arts Health. 

Additional lectures and masterclasses will be presented by Dr. Jae-Hwa Shin, from the Southern Miss School of Media and Communication, Amanda Walsh, interim director of the Speaking Center at Southern Miss, and William A. Thompson, IV, a composer and educator. 

Symposium topics will cover various vocal techniques and their applications, vocal and hearing health, professional career building and many more. Masterclasses, open to both teachers and students, will reaffirm topics such as building the classical voice through the development of chiaroscuro, gospel singing and the path to a dynamic performance. 

Click here to register or call the USM Office of Professional Development and Educational Outreach at 601.266.4186.