Name: Dorothy R. Mennen

Home Address:
1804 Ravinia Road
West Lafayette, IN
47906
USA

Home Phone: (765) 463-5608

Work Address:
Purdue University

Email Address: mennen18@aol.com

Current Affiliation:
Purdue University, free lance work

Selected Professional Affiliation (Work Experience):
VASTA, ATHE, NATS

Area(s) of Expertise (in Ranked Order):
VOICE, (SPEECH-SINGING) Training and development of the integrated voice. CONSULTANT to actors,singers, public speakers, media, politicians, clergy

Professional Organizations: VASTA, ATHE, NATS

Statement of Philosophy:
My voice work incoproates an integrated approach to the speaking-singing voice- a synthesis. I believe in a holistic view as body-voice, the total person.

As an experienced teacher I believe "If you can speak, you can sing." Both should be a developmental part of education. Vocal training and vocal health should begin in early childhood. One understands the development of the artistic voice needs greater and more specific training . A sound, fundamental methodology is needed which is not unalterable. We learn from science and aristic endeavor. I respect the work of others and undersand "there are many paths to heaven" and it is not necessary it be mine. At the same time I want to learn about those other paths and allow them to illumninate my experience and growth. I believe strongly in being inclusive, at the same time, confident of my own work. Artists, teachers, trainers need to work together to elevate both teaching and performance.

VASTA represents for me a long-standing hope for professionals to share the joy of the arts and promote our special skills and join with those who share our purposes.