Neurodiversity in the Voice Studio, Clinic, and Performance Space: Using a Neurodiversity Affirming Lens to Build More Inclusive Spaces for Singers. Part 1, Current Understanding of Neurodiversity

Abstract

Growing recognition of neurodiversity in society at large has led to a rising awareness among voice professionals of how atypical learning may manifest in voice studios, clinics, and performance spaces. We are beginning to learn how behaviours and traits previously attributed to poor character, lack of discipline, or even mental deficiency may, in fact, be the result of neurodivergent individuals attempting to acculturate to voice studios, clinics, or performance spaces that were largely designed for neurotypical people. This burgeoning awareness is catalysing a movement among voice professionals to gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity in order to move from an accommodation model to an affirmation model in our voice spaces. Part One of this column makes explicit the current understanding of neurodiversity with an emphasis on the lived experience and opinions of neurodivergent individuals. Part Two offers ideas for what it means to create more inclusive voice training, care, and performance spaces through a neurodiversity-affirming lens.