<p><span class="p-body">Aaron Johnson’s career began as a classical choral singer and vocal instructor before earning a master's in speech-language pathology at Rush University and a PhD in communicative sciences and disorders at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Now a faculty member at NYU Langone’s Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and instructor in the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/vocology.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Vocology</a> program at the School of Professional Studies, he balances research, clinical work, and education.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">“Teaching in the SPS Vocology program allows me to share my multidisciplinary knowledge and experience with other people who are interested in working with the voice, whether through voice training in the studio or voice therapy in the clinic,” he says. The program provides students with a scientific foundation in voice production while equipping them with hands-on skills in vocal training, rehabilitation, and performance.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Many people ignore their vocal health until issues arise. While some believe drinking tea or inhaling steam improves the voice, Johnson explains that proper vocal technique is key. “Most voice problems are caused by how people are using their voice, so helping people change their vocal habits and techniques has a much greater impact than drinking tea,” he says.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">The Vocology program teaches students about vocal fatigue, muscle tension dysphonia, and the effects of aging on the voice, offering evidence-based strategies for injury prevention and rehabilitation. Students learn to assess vocal function and apply techniques to improve voice production, whether for performers, voice teachers, or therapists.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">In Johnson’s Vocometry course, students analyze vocal features such as vibrato and intensity using specialized tools and software. In the voice disorders course, they practice assessing disordered voices with the Consensus Auditory Perceptual Evaluation—Voice (CAPE-V). These exercises prepare students to systematically evaluate and enhance vocal performance and health.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Graduates leave with the skills to train elite vocalists, optimize speech efficiency for public speakers, or work in clinical voice rehabilitation. “Vocology is an exciting and evolving field that sits at the intersection of science, artistry, and clinical care,” Johnson adds. “If you’re passionate about voice, this program will give you the tools to deepen your expertise and make a meaningful impact.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Add new skills to your toolbox when you earn a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/vocology.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Vocology</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>