The Theory Behind SongShine

A Program that is Both Heart and Science

SongShine is designed around the leading edge science of neuroplasticity – the human brain’s ability to reorganize itself and change by stimulating alternative brain pathways from the creative right side of the brain. Previous concepts concerning the brain, based on autopsies, provided limited technical data. Brains were considered mechanistic and fixed. If part of the brain was damaged through disease or trauma it was thought to be broken or irreparable.

Today, the advancement of magnetic resonance imaging allows researchers to study living brains. This technology has revolutionized the potential for post trauma treatment of the brain. Our program is designed around the body of knowledge which considers the human brain to be “plastic”; it is able to change. It also reflects that the brain is a social organ that continues to respond and develop in the context of supportive and responsive human relationships. Thus SongShine’s utilization of a group format.

Think of it as heart and science. SongShine combines elements from two art forms: vocal arts and dramatic arts. These art forms harness the power of brain, breath, and emotion for the purpose of building voices.

SongShine’s singing techniques are based on founder Dr. Metzgar’s use of the Bel canto methods of Matilda Marchesi and Estelle Liebling which include diaphragmatic / costal breathing, a free, natural, well-focused tone, relaxed jaw, body awareness, and additional methods learned from excellent voice teachers and the University of Michigan and the University of Washington.

Artistic Director Peter Harris, twenty-year professional actor, has full understanding of the beauty and power of the spoken voice, breath, diction, articulation, tongue exercises, body awareness, emotional engagement, role play, spontaneity, creative imagination, story building, and more, learned from his years of study at the Julliard School – Drama Division – and as a student of Edith Skinner, and whose textbook, Speak with Distinction, continues to guide our work. Other techniques are taken from Kristin Linklatter’s work, Freeing the Natural Voice. Additionally, the work of Shelly Carson, Ph.D., author of Your Creative Brain, has shaped our development of SongShine’s curriculum. We are indebted to these and many others who have helped us create a unique Arts In Healthcare program.

The Process

SongShine classes offer a holistic approach to strengthening neurologically damaged and aging voices. An integration of body awareness and relaxation, breath management, music (vocalises and songs), speech (including diction and articulation), imagination, creative drama, playing a role (becoming another), and emotional engagement are combined to involve the whole person: body, mind, and spirit.

Classes are taught in an affirming atmosphere that gives participants an opportunity to take risks, be affirmed, and build community. Voices are strengthened, friendships are made, self-esteem is increased. As an integrated classroom that includes all age-related and neurological disorders, participants are focused on a common goal rather than a specific neurological disorder.

The Result

SongShine Foundation’s classes offer a positive learning atmosphere which:

strengthens voices
lifts spirits
releases memories
builds community
increases self-esteem

Our Commitment

Because speech is the cornerstone of communication, SongShine is committed to improving the lives of people with neurologically compromised speech. We train instructors using singing, diaphragmatic / costal breathing, diction, articulation, and many creative techniques to strengthen voices.

Whether you are a prospective instructor, have Parkinson’s disease, stroke, other neurological disorders, or simply have an aging voice, WE WELCOME YOU.

Want to give voice back to the voiceless through a gift to SongShine?
We thank you for your support!

SongShine Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax exempt public charity.