NEWS RELEASE

Contact: David West (west@nsula.edu )
News Bureau
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6466

9/01/2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATCHITOCHES- Terrie Sanders has always been comfortable working with talented voices. Recently, she completed training to help her work with troubled voices.

Sanders, an assistant professor of music at Northwestern State University, recently completed training to become a Certified McClosky Vocal Technician. Over the past two years, Sanders underwent training in the McClosky Technique, a system of voice production developed and practiced by David Blair McClosky at the Voice Therapy Clinic at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary.

"This is an area I have always been interested in," said Sanders, who has been on NSU's faculty for 12 years. "The McClosky Technique takes people with voice disorders and teaches them a healthy way to maintain their voice.

"I was impressed with the technique from the beginning. I began using it in my vocal studio and have seen some amazing results with students. They also retain what they have learned very well."

The McClosky Technique emphasizes posture, breathing, relaxation of the face and throat and easy-onset phonation. The technique has been used since the 1950's in clinics, private practice and in traditional voice studies and private studios.

Sanders learned the McClosky Technique from instructors who studied with McClosky. She completed 120 hours of training in 10 areas. Sanders was part of the fourth certification at the McClosky Institute of Voice in Boston. Part of her training was paid for with funds from the Donald F. Derby Endowed Professorship, which Sanders held during the 2003-2004 academic year.

"This certification allows me to add to my teaching," said Sanders. "I have something extra I can do for people in the community. This technique can help people maintain a speaking or singing voice."

Sanders is available to assist individuals who have voice disorders. She will work in consultation with physicians or other vocal professionals.

The McClosky Technique has been helpful in resolving many types of voice disorders including vocal nodules and even speech problems that arise as a result of Parkinson's Disease," said Sanders.

Sanders was a guest performer on the Demonstration Concert for the McClosky Institute of Voice during her training. She has also had seminars on the McClosky Technique at the Louisiana Music Teachers Association. Sanders has also been a guest performer at the LMTA Conference in addition to appearances with the Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Orchestra, the NSU Chamber Orchestra and the Shreveport Opera.

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