The voice – and larynx – is seen by many as one of the most unique parts of the body, and when someone is denied its use due to voice disorders like dysphonia it can be “sad, disappointing and horrible”.
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Founded in Brazil 29 years ago, World Voice Day seeks to bring attention to the phenomenon of voice production, and now partners with the Australian Dysphonia Network in more than 50 countries to spread the message.
The message of the beauty of voice has now spread as far as the Hunter, and the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, where a number of local performers will take to the stage as part of Hunter in Harmony on Sunday, April 29.
“People take for granted the gift that a voice is on a day-to-day,” co-master of ceremonies and vocalist teacher Francine Bell said of the movement. “It’s that old adage from Joni Mitchell that I think rings true about the voice: ‘you don’t know what you got ‘til it’s gone’.”
Bell, who also runs a performance workshop in the Hunter, believes the voice is “unique” and should be “looked after as the vital tool it is”.
“I’m sure that’s why everyone came on-board, because of that message,” she said. “You don’t come out of the womb being able to talk, but people have to learn to speak and it’s unique and special.”
“This event is so important for anyone who speaks on a day-to-day basis, it is supporting research for those who are not as fortunate as we are. We have to get behind events like this.
“I’m so proud to be on-board to get people to understand that we need to celebrate our voices, and that it’s a gift. The Australian Dysphonia Network and the Australia Voice Association both are working towards people regaining their voice if they are suffering from vocal dysphonia.”
Alongside Ms Bell are a number of other Hunter performers who have put their time and efforts behind the cause, including Bell’s students Jamie Razon and Brooke Lidbury, University of Newcastle lecturer Terence Koo and the Brainwave Stroke Choir.
Julie Wilson, Mia Osmotherley and Tony Johns & Sophie also join the list of performers from the Hunter stepping forward to raise money and awareness in the battle against vocal dysphonia.
The Hunter in Harmony World Voice Day event will begin at 2pm on Sunday, April 29.
Tickets are available online from $35 per person, or $25 concession prices, at hunterinharmony2018.eventbrite.com.au.
Isaac McIntyre
Got a story or a tip that you want to send through? Contact me at isaac.mcintyre@fairfaxmedia.com.au
Got a story or a tip that you want to send through? Contact me at isaac.mcintyre@fairfaxmedia.com.au
