Voice as a creative tool
I do artistic research, which focuses on performance/performing arts and the human voice. As a part of this research I’ve developed a voice work method called Prework With Voice. The method is primarily developed from the perspective of its usability and functionality, especially to artists working in the performing arts field. The use of the method can be found helpful for artists and performers working in the following fields such as actors, dancers, dramaturges, directors, and choreographers.
The technique mainly practices singing long vowels, as these further on deep listening, relaxation during voice production and help sense bodily vibrations or feels that the voice produces. The work begins by selecting a certain theme for the process. The theme can be chosen, for example, from the text of the play, a poem, a place, non-human objects or the subjects revolving around the artistic work. Long vowels, breathing along while deep listening, extend awareness of the body and the mind. Furthermore it strongly enhances the imagination. The theme works as a starting point for imaginary and bodily “journey”. As the work progresses the voice creates a mental-bodied state that resembles light sleep. "Reasoning" is reduced and the path to subconsciousness is more open. The work tunes the practisioner’s body and imagination with the theme in unexpected ways and realisations. While working with Prework With Voice there may evolve “inner material” such as mental, aural or bodily images, ideas, moments of increased awareness, affects and/or emotions. This material can be used during the performance on stage as an actor/performer, as well as in the process of creative work (writing, designing, etc). The method is not therapy work, even though it may appear therapeutical and opening. Prework With Voice -method creates an inner playground and produces co-operation in between imagination, breathing and body.
What is the philosophy behind the method?
The basis of the method lies on a holistic view of a human being and archetypal similarities between us. It produces realisations of how personal experiences can be in full connection with the theme/character/dramaturgical aims of the performance piece. These emotional and bodily connections are not always possible to find through reasoning and with the use of intellect. Furthermore the connection with the subconscious mind and bodily memory can be a “game changer”. For example, the unfamiliar theme, subject of a play or a “narrative of a character” can be transformed to become very personal. In addition, Prework With Voice -method may broaden one’s awareness on how the theme may be connected to collective experiences - due to that all human beings experience similar archetypal processes in life, but all of us in our own very personal and unique way. There are similarities that are not always obvious, not always seen very clearly... We are all connected with these similarities, archetypal experiences - and the PWV method just helps us to find these connections.
To find more information of Prework With Voice and some experiences from the artists (in Finnish) click here.
Prework With Voice development work was funded by Kone Foundation (2016)
The research and development was made in collaboration with the Theater Academy, the University of Arts, Helsinki