Dr. Rachel Velarde, Associate Professor of Music, returned from Seattle after attending the joint PAVA (Pan American Vocology Association) and VASTA (Voice and Speech Trainers Association) conference titled “Soma and Science: Bridging the Gap in Interdisciplinary Voice Training.” Members from both associations presented on both new frontiers in science (polyvagal theory!) and sharing applications of process in the studio. 

Besides moderating three podium sessions, Dr. Velarde led a brown bag lunch on implementing/supporting PAVA student chapters. She participated in sessions on Feldenkrais, Linklater, Fitzmaurice, Laughing Voice-work, as well as participating in VASTAs annual “Identity Cabaret” as part of a PAVA group singing an a cappella Renaissance motet. Dr. Velarde especially appreciates the support of a Faculty Training & Development presentation grant to support her travel to the city of Seattle and looks forward to their support for the next PAVA conference in Santiago, Chile in October 2019.