Posted 28th March 2023
A researcher and singing teacher invites people who stammer aged 18+, as well as speech & language therapists, to take part in her study around singing.
Abigail Mann-Daraz, in association with the University of Wales Trinity St David and Voice Study Centre, is exploring the impact that singing can have on vocal confidence.
"According to studies by Corcoran and Stewart (1998) and Nang (2018)," says Abigail, "low confidence can lead to complex mental health issues and shame. I want to research the role of singing within our relationship to the voice. Specifically the vocal confidence levels of people who stammer. I want to ultimately create a singing programme that can empower people who stammer to build confidence and compassion with their voice."
Who can take part?
Abigail is looking for:
- People who stammer aged 18+ for stage 1 of the research.
- Speech & language therapists (SLTs) for stage 2.
What will it involve?
For people who stammer
If you stammer, you're invited to an initial 30-minute informal video chat with Abigail. Then there'll be four 30-minute one-to-one online singing lessons throughout April and May. Immediately after each lesson you'll get to give creative feedback on your experience.
For SLTs
For the next stage of her research, Abigail is looking for SLTs to join an online focus group to discuss the initial findings. This will take place in June.
How to take part
If you're interested, or would like more information, email Abigail at abisinging@googlemail.com
If you'd like to get involved in other areas of stammering research, join one of our Research Arena events.