Introduction to Gender Affirming Voice Teaching: What Every Singing Teacher Should Know
As voice teachers, our role goes beyond helping students sing in tune or with all the right rhythms. We also have the opportunity to support students in expressing their authentic selves.
This is particularly true when it comes to gender affirming voice training. With more transgender and non-binary individuals seeking voice lessons to align their vocal expression with their gender identity, it’s essential for voice teachers to understand how to approach this type of instruction with care, respect, and technical expertise.
This guide will introduce you to the basics of teaching gender affirming singing lessons, giving you a foundation to start with.
What is Gender Affirming Voice Training?
Gender Affirming Speech Training
Gender-affirming speech training helps individuals modify the way their voice is perceived to align with their gender identity. While this can involve feminization or masculinization, it is more about empowering students to find a voice that feels right to them. This training focuses not just on pitch, but on resonance, articulation, vocal weight, and intonation.
Trans women may seek a lighter, brighter, higher speaking voice, while trans men may want to explore their lower pitch range and experience a “chestier” vocal resonance. Non-binary individuals might desire a voice that doesn’t fit into traditional gender norms at all. The key is working with each student’s unique goals rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all approach.
Gender Affirming Singing Training
Gender affirming training as a singer can mean taking a similar approach. Instruction supports individuals in aligning their singing voice with their gender identity, whether they are trans, non-binary, or gender non-conforming.
Trans feminine folks might be interested in extending their vocal range higher, lightening their vocal weight, and brightening their vowel placement for a more feminine perceived voice. Trans masculine people might be interested in an extension of their lower pitch range, or a heavier, chest-connected sound. Voice expression that feels authentic to the individual's gender experience is the most important thing.
Key Concepts for Teaching Gender Affirming Voice
Affirmation First
Start with an affirming attitude. Language and sensitivity are critical. Use your student’s correct name and pronouns, and create an environment that is welcoming and judgment-free. Many students may be coming to you after years of feeling dysphoric or uncomfortable with their voice, so it's important to recognize that you’re not just teaching a technical skill—you’re helping someone feel more like themselves.Understanding the Anatomy of Hormone Therapy
It’s essential to understand how hormones can affect the voice. Some trans people will undergo estrogen or testosterone therapy. Trans masc folks who are undergoing exogenous testosterone therapy will experience a thickening of the vocal folds, causing a lowering of the pitch. This period of growth in the vocal cords causes a (sometimes) years-long period of instability in the voice. However, there’s no corresponding hormone for trans women that will naturally raise the pitch, so feminization must be approached through training techniques that affect resonance and articulation.Personalization is Key
Every student will have different goals. For some, gender-affirming singing work might be primarily about pitch, while others will focus on resonance, vocal weight, or even song choice. Tailor your lessons to your student’s needs. Some might want to explore a fully binary voice, while others are looking for a voice that exists somewhere in between.Teach Vocal Care
Gender affirming voice work, especially for those pushing the limits of their vocal range or resonance, can be physically demanding. Make sure to emphasize proper vocal health, including hydration, proper warmups, and recovery time after intensive use. Students should be encouraged to listen to their bodies and avoid pushing themselves too hard too quickly.Safe Space for Exploration
Many students may be unsure of their vocal goals when they start gender-affirming voice training. Encourage experimentation and provide a space where students can try new sounds, even if they feel awkward at first. Affirm and celebrate their exploration, recognizing that voice is deeply tied to identity, and the journey will be different for each person.
Next Steps for Voice Teachers
If you’re just starting to explore how to make your voice studio as welcoming as possible,the best next step is continued learning. Take time to research, attend workshops, and observe professionals, like Speech Language Pathologists, who specialize in this area. Building a community of teachers and professionals who share insights and strategies is also invaluable. Ultimately, gender affirming voice training is about fostering an inclusive, supportive space where each student can feel empowered to find and express their true voice.
Gender Affirming Voice Resources
Gender affirming voice Books/Articles
The Voice Book for Trans and Non-Binary People by Matthew Mills and Gillie Stoneham
The Singing Teacher’s Guide to Transgender Voices by Liz Jackson Hearns and Brian Kremer
The Changing Female-to-Male (FTM) Voice by Alexandros N. Constansis