Stevie Hirner

Interest Session 4

1/25/24 | 11:15am-12:15pm

Flexible Fach: Gender-Affirming Singing Pedagogy through Science-Informed Practices

Session Description

In this interactive session, attendees will be invited to sing and discuss vocal exercises from a new protocol developed by the presenter that focuses on helping transgender and gender-expansive (TGE) singers produce an aural aesthetic that better aligns with their gender identity. Created through an understanding of the gendered associations and vocal characteristics of common Fach categories and voice classifications, this protocol synthesizes practices from gender-affirming speech-language pathology (SLP) with source-filter theory and science-informed vocal pedagogy to present a healthy gender-affirming practice routine for TGE singers who are seeking to masculinize or feminize their voices.

Clinician Bio

Stevie J. Hirner (she/her) is a choral conductor, composer, and singer who specializes in science-informed practices that promote transgender inclusivity. As a leading voice in trans issues in singing, Hirner has presented her research at the 2023 National ACDA Conference, 2022 Western ACDA Regional Conference, and 2023 World Symposium on Choral Music in Istanbul. Hirner is nearing the completion of her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Choral Music from the University of Southern California and holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Auburn University (2012) and a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from the University of Missouri (2014).