NYSTA’s Professional Development Program (PDP) is a series of online classes designed for teachers of singing, presented by leading experts in the field. The goal of the program is twofold. First, we provide course participants with contemporary, evidence-based content that is designed to further their understanding of vocal function and biomechanics. Second, we provide real-world connections between the pedagogical information and its practical application in the voice studio. PDP graduates gain a deep understanding of voice science and pedagogy while greatly improving their effectiveness in the studio.
The core curriculum unfolds through a sequence of courses that collectively provide a well-rounded foundation in vocal pedagogy:
The courses are asynchronous, can be started at any time, and must be completed within three months. Each course includes between three and ten modules, comprising approximately ten hours of content. Participants will complete various quizzes and assignments throughout each course that will be evaluated by the course instructor. PDP participants who pass all courses with a grade of B- (80%) or higher receive the Distinguished Voice Professional Certificate. The fee for each course is $300 for NYSTA members and $350 for non-members.
Please contact PDP Director Colin Briskey at pdpdirector@nyst.org with any questions.
Program History
Since its earliest years, NYSTA has sought to foster standards in the profession of voice teaching. In the 1920s and 30s the organization led efforts to require certification by the New York State government for all voice teachers. While state certification was never implemented, its intent came to fruition with the establishment of our Professional Development Program.
Oren Lathrop Brown
The PDP was initially guided by noted pedagogue Oren Lathrop Brown, and spearheaded by past NYSTA President, Janet Pranschke. In 2010, the program moved online in order to reach a wider audience. The program was revamped in 2022 under the leadership of previous PDP Director Amanda Flynn. The classes are designed to deliver the most current vocal pedagogy information in an online format.