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As music teachers, we use our voices constantly—but are we taking care of them the way we should? In this episode of That Music Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Whitehead, a vocal health expert and professor at Ohio Wesleyan University, to talk about how teachers can protect their voices, avoid vocal fatigue, and develop habits that support long-term vocal wellness.

We discuss everything from warmups and cool-downs to the hidden impact of stress and classroom acoustics. Plus, Dr. Whitehead shares practical tips for navigating high vocal loads, managing vocal strain when you’re sick, and knowing when it’s time to seek professional help.

Whether you’re a trained vocalist or an instrumentalist who “fell into” teaching general music, this episode is packed with insights to help you keep your most important teaching tool—your voice—strong and healthy for years to come.

Episode Chapters:

• 0:00 Introduction

   

• 2:23 Why Vocal Health Matters for Teachers

   

• 9:24 Understanding Vocal Fatigue and Strain

   

• 14:45 Daily Habits for a Healthier Voice

   

• 20:58 Hydration, Diet, and Your Voice

   

• 25:46 What to Do When You’re Sick

   

• 28:09 The Role of Stress in Vocal Health

   

• 38:58 When to Seek Professional Help

   

• 44:42 Final Tips for Protecting Your Voice

   

• 49:46 Takeaways

Links and Resources: 

• Elementary Newbie Guide
• Disabilities Guide
• Steady Beat Survival Guide
• Join That Music Teacher Community
• Alvoxcon Wireless Lapel Microphone

*Note: The link for the microphone is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through it—at no extra cost to you! Than

Have questions or want to share feedback? Reach out to us at [email protected] - we’d love to hear from you!