The Art and Science of the Performing Voice Conference
May 15-16, 2026
Seattle, Washington (in-person only)
Join us for an exciting weekend of in-depth exploration of the art and science of the performing voice at the Northwest Voice Conference!
This dynamic event held on the University of Washington campus in Seattle, WA, brings together voice professionals, singers, teachers, researchers, laryngologists, speech-language pathologists, and anyone interested in the voice to dive into the latest developments in voice science, vocal pedagogy & performance, and the assessment and treatment of voice disorders.
With a focus on bridging artistic practice with scientific understanding, this conference offers a unique opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills. Through engaging presentations, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, you’ll learn from leading experts about topics such as vocal health, technique, pedagogy, voice rehabilitation, and innovative research on the performing voice.
Conference Highlights
Expert presentations on the science of vocal health and performance
Sessions on voice disorders and rehabilitation
Masterclasses and workshops on vocal technique across various styles
Cutting-edge research on the performing voice
Networking opportunities with voice professionals from around the nation and region
Learning Outcomes
As a result of this activity the participant will be able to:
1. Identify and describe the scientific, physiologic, clinical, or pedagogical perspectives associated with the training, assessment, or treatment of the performing voice.
2. Describe common characteristics and symptoms of the injured performer.
3. Summarize the medical/surgical versus behavioral treatment of voice disorders in performers.
4. List the various professionals involved in working with the injured performing voice, as well as each professional’s responsibilities.
Whether you’re a singer, teacher, choral director, actor, speech-language pathologist, MD, researcher, or anyone interested in the voice, this conference is designed to provide valuable insights and practical tools for improving vocal performance and care. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with other voice professionals and deepen your understanding of the performing voice.
ASHA CE Provider approval and use of the Brand Block does not imply endorsement of course content, specific products, or clinical procedures.
This program is offered for 1.25 ASHA CEUs (intermediate level, professional area). ASHA CEU Provider approval does not imply endorsement of course content, specific products or clinical procedures.
This course is available for partial credit. Requirements for satisfactory completion necessary for the participant to earn ASHA CEUs includes:
1. Attending a minimum of one day, or two partial days, with a minimum of 350 minutes of attended course time.
2. Completion of an online assessment of learning and course evaluation within 1 week of completing the course.
Reflux Gourmet® is a Platinum Sponsor of this conference and has provided financial and in-kind support. Acceptance of this sponsorship does not imply endorsement of products or services.
2026 Program
Friday, May 15, 2026
8:00 Registration
8:30-8:45 Welcome and Opening Remarks (Albert Merati, MD, Kari Ragan, DMA, and Marty Nevdahl, CCC-SLP)
8:45-9:15Intro to Stroboscopy (Neel Bhatt, MD)
9:15-9:45 The Informed Ear: Integrating Perceptual, Acoustic, and Aerodynamic Measures in Voice Diagnostics (Maddie Knutson, MS, CCC-SLP, Brandon Jagdhar, MS, CF-SLP)
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
9:45-10:45 Performance Longevity and the Science of the Aging Voice (Brianna Crawley, MD)
10:45-11:15 BREAK
PAPER PRESENTATIONS
11:15-11:30 Mastering the Middle: Navigating the Mixed Register (Kara Covey, DMA)
11:30-11:45 Efficiency as a Unifying Principle in Elite Singing (Steve Uliana, MM, MS, CCC-SLP)
11:45--12:00 The Effects of Jaw Tension on the Speaking and Performing Voice (Scott Jackson, MS, CCC-SLP)
12:00-12:15 Beyond Bel Canto: Culturally Responsive Language in the Voice Studio (Natalie Cummings, DMA,Christina Ray, MM,Justin T. Swain, MM)
12:15-12:30 Q&A with presenters
12:30-2:00 LUNCH ON YOUR OWN
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION
2:00-2:30 TBD
SPECIAL PANEL SESSION
2:30-3:30 A.I. And The Work We All Do: What Comes Next?(Tony Law, MD, Moderator, Al Merati, MD, James Thomas, MD, Cary Lee, BM, BS)
INTERDISCIPLINARY PANEL
3:30-4:30 Abbey Tabor, MS, CCC-SLP, moderator, Panelists: Nick Klein, DMA, Marci Rosenberg, BM, MS, CCC-SLP, and UW SLP members
Saturday, May 16, 2026
8:00 Registration
8:25-8:30 Overview/Questions (Al Merati, MD & Kari Ragan, DMA)
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
8:30-9:30 Vocal Health: The Musical (10 Years in the Making) (Adam Lloyd, SLP-D, MM, CCC-SLP)
MD PANEL
9:30-10:30 (Moderator, Al Merati, MD; Panelists: Brianna Crawley, MD, Tony Law, MD, Brandon Kim, MD
10:30-11:00 BREAK
PAPER PRESENTATIONS
11:00-11:15 Understanding Sensory Processing in Adults Seeking Voice Therapy: A Strengths-Based Perspective (Abbey Tabor, MS, CCC-SLP)
11:15-11:30 The VP (Velopharyngeal Port) Workout (Jeanai La Vita, DMA)
11:30-11:45 Using Cepstral Peak Prominence Values in Research and the Voice Studio (Sidney Becktold)
11:45-12:00 Q&A with Paper Presenters
INTERACTIVE CONFERENCE SESSION
12:00-1:00 Voice Across Disciplines: Interactive Case Pathways and Collaborative Discussion (Adam Lloyd, SLP-D, MM, CCC-SLP, and Kari Ragan, DMA, Moderators)
1:00-2:30 LUNCH ON YOUR OWN
2:30-3:00 Potpourri Q/A (Al Merati, MD & Kari Ragan, DMA)
KEYNOTE MASTERCLASS
3:00-4:15 Mike Ruckles, MM
4:15-4:30 Q&A
4:30-4:45Wrap up: What Did We Learn the Past Two Days? (Al Merati, MD, Brianna Crawley, MD, Adam Lloyd, SLP-D, MM, CCC-SLP, Mike Ruckles, MM)
Thanks to Reflux Gourmet for sponsoring one of our Coffee Breaks!
We will follow the University of Washington’s guidelines for COVID-19. Masks are optional outside of health-care settings, and we ask that you respect individuals’ choices regarding mask wearing. For the safety and health of all attendees we ask that you not attend the conference if you are exhibiting any symptoms associated with COVID.
Early Bird Registration is NOW OPEN!
Registration
Register early to be eligible to win prizes drawn at the conference!
Transportation
SeaTac Airport (SEA)
19 miles south of University of Washington campus
14.5 south of downtown Seattle
$75 for an average Uber/Lyft to Silver Cloud Hotel U-District.
Link Light Rail
Take directly from SEA to the University of Washington campus
UW campus stops:
University of Washington Station
U District Station
You can then take a 1-mile Uber/Lyft to the Silver Cloud Hotel.
Find Link Light Rail schedules and fee info
More logistical information (including campus maps, parking, and lunch locations) will be sent to registrants with two weeks before the conference.
Lodging
Silver Cloud Hotel
You can now book discounted hotel rooms ($165/night) at the University District Silver Cloud Hotel.
Call for Abstracts: Northwest Voice Conference, The Art and Science of the Performing Voice
Submission deadline: January 15, 2026
Submitters will be notified by: February 15, 2026
Conference date: May 15-16, 2026
We invite you to submit abstracts for presentations at the 10th annual Northwest Voice: The Art and Science of the Performing Voice Conference. This conference is a unique opportunity for voice professionals, researchers, teachers, speech-language pathologists, MDs, and performers to share their insights and innovations in vocal performance, pedagogy, vocal health, and science.
We welcome abstracts related to:
Vocal performance and technique
Voice pedagogy and education
Vocal health and rehabilitation
Scientific research on the performing voice
Innovations in voice technology and training
Abstract Submission
Selected presentations will include 15-minute oral sessions and workshops. Some considerations may be given to expand an abstract to a larger presentation or workshop.
Additional information
The length of your abstract must not exceed 250 words and should include a title (in subject line). All accepted presenters must register for the conference.
Submission instructions
Enter your full name and email address into the form.
Enter "Abstract Title: (insert title)” into the Subject box.
In the body of the message, include your name, degrees, affiliation, and any other information you might want us to know.
Upload a single word document (12 pt font, Times New Roman, Single Spaced) that includes your title, abstract (250 words max), bio (150 words max), and a professional headshot.