Freedom of the Singing Voice: An Exploration of the Mind-Body Connection, Performance Anxiety and Confidence through Methods of Fitzmaurice Voicework, Organic Intelligence, and Ziva Meditation

Abstract

ABSTRACT The psychological aspect of elite performance is increasingly recognized. Indeed, many elite athletes and sportspeople employ psychological techniques within their practice to reduce excess physical tension and feelings of performance anxiety. However, similar practices are less often part of standard singing training. Therefore, this study aimed to integrate mindfulness and wellbeing methods into private voice practice and explore whether increasing the mind-body connection had a positive effect on the singing voice. The methods adopted were Fitzmaurice Voicework®, Organic Intelligence®, and Ziva Meditation, which were implemented alongside singing practice over the course of four months. This study adopted a practice-as-research methodology, so all results are self-reflective. Integrating Fitzmaurice Voicework, Organic Intelligence, and Ziva Meditation into regular singing practice (1) reduced feelings of performance anxiety and (2) increased feelings of confidence and physical ease during singing. The findings of this practice-as-research suggest that increasing the mind-body connection may reduce performance anxiety and thereby—in conjunction with meaningful singing training—improve vocal health, enjoyment, and the rate at which singing technique is acquired.