Estill Master Trainer Phase One Examinations

What is Estill Voice Training?

Estill Voice Training is a revolutionary approach to voice development that provides voice professionals with the tools to understand and control their voices. Developed by Jo Estill, this method breaks down voice production into 13 Figures for Voice Control, giving practitioners precise control over vocal quality, power, and flexibility.

The certification process for Estill Voice Training consists of several levels, with the Master Trainer designation representing the highest level of expertise. Master Trainers are qualified to teach all levels of Estill Voice Training and to mentor others through the certification process.

Phase One Examination Requirements

Before applying for the Phase One Examination of the Master Trainer certification, candidates must meet the following prerequisites:

• Hold current Estill Figure Proficiency and Estill Voiceprint Licenses
• Be a current Certified Estill Master Teacher (CEMT)
• Have achieved Advanced Testing Privileges in all 13 Figures for Voice Control
• Have completed at least 5 years of teaching Estill Voice Training
• Have documented proof of teaching at least 25 Estill Voice Training courses or workshops
• Submit two teaching videos that demonstrate coaching across all six Voice Qualities
• Provide documented proof of ongoing professional development
• Complete the Phase One Examination application process

Phase One Examination Structure

The Phase One Examination consists of three comprehensive components designed to evaluate the depth of a candidate's knowledge and their teaching abilities:

Written Examination

The written component tests theoretical knowledge and understanding of:

• Estill Voice Training philosophy and history
• Advanced anatomy and physiology of voice production
• The science behind the 13 Figures for Voice Control
• Analysis of Voice Qualities and their practical applications
• Pedagogical approaches to teaching Estill Voice Training
• Current research related to voice science and Estill methodology

Practical Examination

This component evaluates the candidate's ability to:

• Demonstrate all 13 Figures for Voice Control with precision
• Produce and transition between all six Voice Qualities
• Identify and correct common errors in Figure production
• Use Estill Voiceprint software effectively for analysis and feedback

Teaching Demonstration

In this component, candidates must:

• Deliver a 30-minute teaching presentation on a randomly selected Figure
• Demonstrate coaching skills by working with a volunteer demonstrating vocal challenges
• Show the ability to adapt teaching approaches to different learning styles
• Exhibit clear communication and pedagogical effectiveness

Preparation Tips

Success in the Phase One Examination requires thorough preparation. Consider the following strategies:

Practice Examination Format

Arrange mock examinations with peers or mentors to practice the format of all three components. This will help you become comfortable with the examination environment and timing constraints.

Self-Assessment

Regularly record your own voice production and analyze it with Estill Voiceprint. Identify areas where your production could be more precise and practice those Figures intensively.

Examination Process and Timeline

The Phase One Examination follows a structured timeline:

1. Application Submission: Complete the application form and submit all required documentation, including teaching videos and evidence of professional development.
2. Application Review: Applications are reviewed by the Estill Master Trainer Certification Board. This process typically takes 4-6 weeks.
3. Eligibility Notification: Successful applicants are notified of their eligibility and provided with examination schedules.
4. Examination Period: The Phase One Examination is conducted during designated examination periods, typically twice per year at various global locations.
5. Results: Examination results are typically released 6-8 weeks after the examination period.

Costs and Resources

The investment for becoming an Estill Master Trainer includes both financial and time commitments:

• Application Fee: $250 USD (non-refundable)
• Examination Fee: $1,500 USD for the Phase One Examination
• Re-examination Fee: $750 USD (if needed)
• Annual Master Trainer Dues: $400 USD after certification

Recommended resources for examination preparation include:

• All Estill Voice Training publications and course materials
• Estill Voiceprint software license
• "Singing with Your Whole Self" by Samuel Nelson and Elizabeth Blades
• Estill Voice Training research papers and publications
• Practice sessions with certified Master Trainers

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Phase One Examination take?

The examination typically takes one full day, with breaks scheduled between components.

What is the passing score for the Phase One Examination?

Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 80% in each of the three examination components to pass.

How many attempts do I have to pass the Phase One Examination?

Candidates have up to three attempts to pass the Phase One Examination, with a six-month waiting period between attempts.

How long is the Master Trainer certification valid?

Master Trainer certification is valid for one year and must be renewed annually through payment of dues and submission of documentation of continued teaching and professional development.

What happens if I don't complete Phase Two after passing Phase One?

Candidates have two years from passing Phase One to complete and pass Phase Two. If not completed within this timeframe, Phase One must be retaken.

Can I conduct Estill Voice Training examinations after passing Phase One?

Phase One alone does not grant examination privileges. Full Master Trainer status, which comes after successful completion of both Phase One and Phase Two, is required to examine candidates for lower-level certifications.