Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if combined respiratory muscle training (cRMT) with standard singing practices is superior to singing practices alone. Eighteen undergraduate voice majors and principals participated in the study, in which the experimental group utilized a cRMT device and regimen while the control group practiced abdominal breathing exercises alone. The aims of the study included: determining the effects on aerodynamic measures (maximum inspiratory and expiratory pressure and maximum phonation time) when cRMT is combined with standard voice exercises and training compared to exercises and training alone, determining the effects on acoustic measures (frequency and amplitude) when cRMT is combined with standard voice exercises and training compared to exercises and training alone, quality of life measures including ease of singing, effects on perceptual vocal quality (self and expert listeners,) and the effect on voice range markers. The objective of this study is to add to the growing literature of cRMT in singing voice practice, and to add to the literature and viability of evidence-based pedagogy practices in the private voice studio.