Breakout Session
What the Fach? Voice Dysphoria in the Transgender and Genderqueer Singer
Monday, June 25 • 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Presenter: Loranie Sims
Introduced by: Julie Wieck
Location: Cohiba 10-11
The Oxford dictionary defines dysphoria as “A state of unease or generalized dissatisfaction with life.” We understand that gender dysphoria means that this dissatisfaction is with one’s gender. Based on my work with singers in this population, this session will explore the phenomenon of voice dysphoria as it relates to transgender and genderqueer singers. One’s vocal identity may not be in sync with their perceived or presented gender. As voice teachers we may be asked to work with an individual who is not only uncomfortable with their gender, but also with their voice as it relates to that gender. Questions will be raised and discussed about how we may need to adjust the way we think about teaching these singers beyond the binary.
About Loranie Sims
Loraine Sims is Associate Professor/Vocal Studies Division Chair at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. Recent performances include “Comedy in Song: Humorous Art Songs in English” for the 2016 National NATS Conference and a repeat performance for the 2017 ICVT in Stockholm, Sweden. Professional activities include “Training Transgender Singers for Opera Performance: Gender Bending Beyond the Pants Role” for the 2017 NOA Conference, “Teaching Lucas: A Transgender Student’s Vocal Journey from Soprano to Tenor” at the 2016 NOA/NATS conference, the 2016 National MTNA Conference, and the 2016 National NATS Convention. Other presentations include “Training the Terrible Tongue!” for the 2014 Chicago NATS Chapter, and the 2012 National NATS Conference. Dr. Sims is a past Southern Region Governor of NATS as well as a member of NOA and MTNA. She enjoys giving master classes and her students have been winners in national and regional competitions.
