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Student Teacher Manual
v1.0
28th April 2013
Table of Contents
1. Welcome ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
2. What is IVA? .................................................................................................................................................. 6
2.1 Mission Statement .................................................................................................................................. 6
2.2 Certificates, Certification and Licensing ........................................................................................ 7
2.2.1 Certificates .................................................................................................................................... 7
2.2.2 Licensing ....................................................................................................................................... 7
2.3 Inclusivity and Core Values ................................................................................................................. 8
2.4 The IVA technique ................................................................................................................................... 8
2.4.1 Core values of the IVA technique........................................................................................ 8
3. Company Structure .................................................................................................................................10
3.1 Board of Directors .................................................................................................................................10
3.2 Master Teachers (MT)...........................................................................................................................10
3.3 Area Representatives (AR) .................................................................................................................11
4 IVA certification .........................................................................................................................................12
4.1 What does it mean to be certified?................................................................................................12
4.2 Certification objectives .......................................................................................................................12
4.3 Certificates................................................................................................................................................12
4.3.1 IVA Instructor I...........................................................................................................................12
4.3.2 IVA Instructor II .........................................................................................................................12
4.3.3 IVA Instructor III ........................................................................................................................12
4.3.4 IVA Advanced Instructor .......................................................................................................13
4.3.5 IVA Mentor Instructor ............................................................................................................13
4.4 Process (details see below) ...............................................................................................................13
4.5 Who is the IVA certification for? ......................................................................................................14
4.6 Code of ethics .........................................................................................................................................14
5 Curriculum and Achievements ...........................................................................................................16
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5.1 Electives.....................................................................................................................................................17
5.2 Online teacher training .......................................................................................................................18
6 Certification process and details ........................................................................................................19
6.1 Student Teachers (ST) ..........................................................................................................................19
6.1.1 Definition of “student teacher”..........................................................................................19
6.1.2 Prerequisites ..............................................................................................................................19
6.1.3 Certification requirements...................................................................................................20
6.1.4 Estimated costs and Methods of Payment ...................................................................21
6.1.5 Certification period .................................................................................................................21
6.1.6 Certification logbook .............................................................................................................22
6.1.7 Steps to sign up ........................................................................................................................22
6.1.8 Communication........................................................................................................................23
7. Certified IVA Instructors, Certified Advanced Instructors and Certified IVA Mentor
Instructors ........................................................................................................................................................24
7.1 Annual certification requirements and estimated costs ......................................................24
7.2 Payments ..................................................................................................................................................28
7.2.1 Payment plan options ...........................................................................................................29
7.3 Certification calendar ..........................................................................................................................29
7.4 Certification period...............................................................................................................................29
7.4.1 Possibility of remaining in a certain level......................................................................30
7.4.2 Large Projects for Advanced and Mentor Certificates .............................................30
7.4.3 Research Paper .........................................................................................................................30
7.4.4 Community Outreach Project ............................................................................................31
7.4.5 Jury Recital ..................................................................................................................................31
8. FAQs ..............................................................................................................................................................32
9. Leave of Absence and Prolonged Absence ..................................................................................33
9.1 Leave of Absence ..................................................................................................................................33
9.2 Prolonged Absence ..............................................................................................................................33
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10. Final Note..................................................................................................................................................35
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1. Welcome
Hello teachers! We wish to extend a hearty welcome to all of you who will begin this
exciting journey with us. Some of you are currently teaching in successful studios, and
some of you may only be taking the first steps toward being a teacher. In either case,
we want you to know that IVA is the place to be if you are serious about being the best
that you can be in the wonderful field of vocal education.
Our team of educators is without question the finest group ever assembled. I have
personally known each of them, and have worked shoulder to shoulder with them for
more than a decade! Their skills and dedication to vocal development are legendary.
As you advance through your education each of you will have the incredible
opportunity to study with one of our amazing teachers. I challenge you to learn as
much as you can from each of them.
Each one of our Master Teachers brings a different kind of expertise to their studios.
Learn from them and your teaching will improve even as your studios blossom.
In addition to outstanding teachers, we have perhaps the most effective
administration anywhere. Again, I have had extensive experience with each of them.
IVA is truly fortunate to have such a qualified team of behind-the-scenes personnel.
I'm thrilled with what IVA has accomplished so far and I'm sure that you will be
satisfied as well as you begin this journey with us.
Onward and upward,
Jeffrey Skouson
CEO and Master Teacher
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2. What is IVA?
2.1 Mission Statement
IVA is an organization offering both exceptional vocal education and a certification
program for professional singing instructors worldwide. Our primary focus is to
research and teach the fundamentals and pedagogy of the healthiest, most highly
effective vocal technique possible. Our purpose is to educate and produce the finest
vocal instructors in the world, promoting and maintaining exceptional standards for
teachers of singing.
We strive to continually develop our program with the latest research in vocal science.
We also offer education in other essential aspects of singing and performance in order
to meet the needs and interests of singers and voice instructors worldwide.
We view ourselves as partners and mentors of—and a continuing support team for—
the students and teachers who are involved in our organization. A sense of
community, trust, and transparency is essential to us. Rather than revolving around a
single person, our method of vocal technique is developed and refined as an
outgrowth of our uncompromising search for truth and knowledge regarding the
workings of the human voice.
We seek to inspire a passion for excellence in teaching and to connect vocal
instructors of the world together in order to share, learn, and grow.
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2.2 Certificates, Certification and Licensing
2.2.1 Certificates
Once you complete a specified set of curriculum, lesson requirements, and testing,
you will be awarded an IVA certificate in recognition of your achievement.
IVA certificates do not expire. If you choose to leave IVA and give up your license as a
Certified Instructor, you may still retain your certificates and list them as education in
your Curriculum Vitae (CV.) However; all other license benefits are lost, including the
right to refer to yourself as a "Certified IVA Instructor.”
2.2.2 Licensing
After completing the Instructor I Certificate and paying the $400 license fee, you
officially become a Certified IVA Instructor.
The IVA license allows you to:

promote yourself officially as an “Certified IVA Instructor”

use the Certified IVA Instructor logo on your website and other marketing
materials

have your name and contact information listed on the IVA website
Whether actively studying toward another certificate or choosing to hold at a
particular tier of certification (see section 7.1) every teacher must pay the license fee to
retain these privileges, remain "in good standing" as a Certified IVA Instructor and
keep this license. This fee helps cover administration and overhead costs, curriculum
development, etc.
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2.3 Inclusivity and Core Values
IVA does not require exclusivity from its Certified Instructors. Teachers are free to learn
from other sources and associate with other organizations. However, if a teacher
begins teaching, promoting or associating with techniques that conflict with IVA core
values (as listed below) IVA reserves the right to revoke their licenses and certificates.
2.4 The IVA technique
The IVA technique is based on 17th and 18th Century principles of singing developed
by the Schola Cantorum. Our goal is to train voices to sing in a free and natural
manner, smoothly, from the bottom of the range to the top with no breaks or sudden
changes in quality. Training in this technique gives the singer access to all dynamics,
with tonal clarity and flexibility where all words are easily pronounced and
understood. Also, training in this technique helps improve a singer's range,
endurance, stamina, breath control, resonance, vocal strength and vocal quality across
all styles of music without fatigue or damage to the voice.
We accomplish these results by training the singer to find a balance between airflow
and intrinsic muscular resistance, all within a resting laryngeal posture.
2.4.1 Core values of the IVA technique

We avoid asking a student to do anything which would be harmful to the voice.

We teach and promote vocal technique through the balancing of multiple
passages or bridges in the voice.

We recognize muscular correctness before sound, using “unfinished” sounds
and isolation-type exercises.

We teach through the principles of cause and effect, using tools and exercises
rather than descriptive language.

We believe a resting larynx should be the "home base" posture for the voice.
The larynx position may vary slightly for vowels, color or style, but the student
need not raise or lower their larynx to assist pitch production.
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
We believe a balanced onset should be the “home base” position for the
vibrating vocal folds, not constricted or breathy.

We believe in breath support that allows a balance of airflow and intrinsic
laryngeal resistance.
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3. Company Structure
3.1 Board of Directors

Guy Babusek
Director of Teacher Relations and Master Teacher

Heather Baker
Director of Elective Lecturers and Area Representative Coordinator

Tom Bathgate
Treasurer and Director of Communications and IT

Stephanie Borm-Krueger
Director of Student Teacher Program and Master Teacher

Andreas Grussl
Vice President and Director of General Counsel

Kathy Kennedy
Director of Copywriting and Master Teacher

Jeffrey Skouson
CEO and Master Teacher

Linda Tomkinson
Director of Teacher Conventions and Master Teacher

Corey Wardle
Secretary and Director of Administration

Spencer Welch
Director of Education and Master Teacher
3.2 Master Teachers (MT)
The IVA Master Teachers are responsible for providing and developing the ongoing
education for IVA Student Teachers and IVA Certified Teachers in private lessons,
webinars, Master Classes and Teacher Trainings. They evaluate and certify IVA
instructors in all certificates.
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The number of IVA Master Teachers is dependent on the number of Student Teachers
and certified teachers worldwide. The possibility to apply for an open Master Teacher
position is available to all Mentor Teachers.
Currently serving as Master Teachers:

Guy Babusek

Stephanie Borm-Krueger

Kathy Kennedy

Jeffrey Skouson

Linda Tomkinson

Spencer Welch
3.3 Area Representatives (AR)
Area Representatives are chosen based on their commitment as a teacher, knowledge
of IVA, their organizational skills, professionalism and above all because we feel they
have the personal qualities that best represent our organization and what we stand
for. The AR role within IVA is crucial for the continued growth and development of
both the teachers and the overall work of the company.
Responsibilities of an AR include organizing Master Teacher events in their local areas,
aiding Student Teachers through certification and communication between the
teachers and IVA. They are your first point of contact for any questions you have
regarding IVA, certification and procedures. If they are unable to answer your
questions they will take them to the AR coordinator and get the answers for you.
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4 IVA certification
4.1 What does it mean to be certified?

Carrying a certificate of high quality vocal education and pedagogy

Being part of a supportive community of vocal instructors

Access to highly professional and continuously developing vocal education
and pedagogy

If licensed: Being able to market and promote your teaching with the IVA name
and logo
4.2 Certification objectives

Certify and license qualified IVA instructors

Provide the highest standard of vocal pedagogy and education

Support ongoing learning and development of voice instructors

Create a worldwide network and support system for professional voice
instructors
4.3 Certificates
4.3.1 IVA Instructor I
Awarded to Student Teachers (ST) after they complete all requirements and pass
testing. An ST must spend a minimum of 12 months and no more than 24 months
working toward completion of this certificate. Once completed, an ST officially
becomes a Certified IVA Instructor.
4.3.2 IVA Instructor II
Prerequisite: Instructor I certificate. Must spend at least 2 years in this certificate
program, complete all requirements, and pass testing.
4.3.3 IVA Instructor III
Prerequisite: Instructor II certificate. Must spend at least 2 years in this certificate
program, complete all requirements, and pass testing. After completing Instructor III
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certificate, a teacher may choose to hold at this certification, complete annual
continuing education, and stay licensed by paying the yearly fee.
The Advanced and Mentor certificates should be viewed like post-graduate work.
These are not mandatory certificates. The expectations and workload is much higher.
4.3.4 IVA Advanced Instructor
Prerequisite: Instructor III certificate. Must spend a minimum of two years, complete
all requirements, and pass testing to be awarded the Advanced certificate. Must also
pass panel testing and complete a Large Project (see 7.4.2).
After completing the Advanced certificate, a teacher may choose to hold at this
certification, complete annual continuing education, and stay licensed by paying the
yearly fee.
4.3.5 IVA Mentor Instructor
Prerequisite: Advanced certificate. Must spend a minimum of two years, complete all
requirements, and pass testing to be awarded the Advanced Certificate. Must also pass
one panel test and complete a Large Project.
After completing the Mentor certificate, a teacher can hold at this certification,
complete annual continuing education, and stay licensed by paying the yearly dues.
4.4 Process (details see below)
The journey in becoming a certified IVA instructor starts with applying as an IVA
Student Teacher. In chapter 6 you will be guided through the process and steps, as
well as the prerequisites for, and requirements to complete the Student Teacher
phase.
Once you achieve the IVA Instructor I certificate, you will have to continue with the
certification process through the IVA Instructor III certificate! At this certificate, you can
decide, if you would like to proceed with the IVA Advanced and Mentor Certificates, or
if you would like to hold at this certification, complete annual continuing education,
and stay licensed by paying annual fee.
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4.5 Who is the IVA certification for?

Beginning voice instructors looking for a high quality teacher training and
education

Experienced voice instructors seeking education to refine their skills and
teaching

Singers and voice teachers who are committed to their ongoing vocal and
pedagogical development
4.6 Code of ethics
The following Code of Ethics has been designed to define professional behavior for
IVA instructors, and to serve as a general guide to ethical conduct. The Code of Ethics
serves to protect the general well being of students, instructors and IVA as a whole
while ensuring accountability. It also will define what would be considered unethical
conduct, which could possibly justify disciplinary actions.
1. Operate within the Law: An IVA instructor should abide by federal, state, and
local laws and statutes. Unethical conduct in this section includes but is not
limited to: the conviction or commission of a felony or misdemeanor of moral
turpitude, excluding minor traffic violations. As used herein, conviction
includes a finding or verdict of guilty or a plea of Nolo contendere, regardless
of whether an appeal of the conviction has been sought; a situation where first
offender treatment without adjudication of guilt or sentence was otherwise
withheld or not entered on the charge or the charge was otherwise disposed of
in a similar manner in any jurisdiction.
2. Maintain Professional Conduct With Students: An IVA instructor should always
maintain a professional relationship with all students, both in and outside the
studio. Unethical conduct in this section includes but is not limited to:
o Committing any act of child abuse, including physical and emotional abuse
o Committing any act of cruelty to children or any act of child endangerment
o Committing or soliciting any unlawful sexual act
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o Engaging in harassing behavior on the basis of race, gender, sex, national
origin, religion, or disability
3. Alcohol or Drugs: An IVA instructor should refrain from the use of alcohol or
illegal or recreational drugs during the course of professional practice.
4. Misrepresentation or Falsification: An IVA Instructor should exemplify honesty
and integrity in the course of professional practice. Unethical conduct includes
but is not limited to:
o Falsifying, misrepresenting, omitting or erroneously reporting
professional qualifications, criminal history, college degrees, academic
awards, and teaching history.
o Falsifying, misrepresenting, omitting, or erroneously reporting
information regarding compliance reports submitted to federal, state,
and other governmental agencies.
5. Professional Conduct: An IVA instructor should demonstrate conduct that
follows generally recognized professional standards. Unethical conduct may
include, but is not limited to, the following: Harassment of colleagues,
uncontrolled anger, a pattern of behavior or conduct that is detrimental to the
health, welfare, or morals of students such as inappropriate language, physical
altercations, inappropriate discipline, sexual advances or involvement with
students, etc.
6. Reporting: Instructors are required to report a breach of one or more of the
above directly to the IVA Director of Teacher Relations. Complaints filed with
IVA must be in writing and must be signed.
7. Disciplinary Action: IVA is authorized to suspend, revoke, or deny certification
and licenses, to issue a reprimand or warning, or to monitor conduct and
performance after a complaint has been issued and reviewed. Failure to
comply with any of the items listed above shall be considered grounds for
disciplinary action.
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5 Curriculum and Achievements
Joining the IVA Certification program offers a number of features and benefits for
voice instructors, that you don’t want to miss. The different tiers of certificates build
upon each other, and will help you in your development as a highly professional voice
instructor.
The described features below are the minimum target areas of development for each
certificate and list the minimum proficiencies teachers must demonstrate in their
testing. The IVA Master Teachers will assess your voice and teaching on a regular basis
and will constantly assist you to get to the next level of your individual development
in all areas.
As a Student Teacher you will learn:

How to identify what needs fixing in a singer’s voice

To prescribe exercises that address those problems in the voice

How to structure a successful lesson flow and plan

To create and build connection through your first bridge, as well as vibrato in
your chest voice
As an IVA Instructor I you will learn:

How to master the structure of a lesson

To use accurate tools that follow from the diagnosis of a voice

To improve the connection in your 1st bridge, as well as your vibrato
As an IVA Instructor II you will learn:

to develop “language” skills in your lessons

to improve your voice assessments

to further develop the usage of the tools to improve the singer’s voice

to sing with connection through 2 bridges

to demonstrate all unfinished sounds through your 1st bridge

assigned repertoire through 1st bridge in your own voice
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As an IVA Instructor III you will learn:

how to master “language” skills in your lessons

to master your vocal demonstrations

to master the order you assess and treat a student’s voice

to develop the application of vowel modification to song lyrics

to develop mentoring skills
As an IVA Advanced Instructor you will learn:

to develop execution skills

to develop mentoring skills for Instructor I’s

to develop classroom leadership skills

to develop your 3rd and 4th bridges (if applicable to your voice)
As an IVA Mentor Instructor you will learn:

to master execution skills

mentoring skills for Instructor II’s

to master classroom leadership skills

to mentor group classes of Instructor II’s

teamwork skills though project development

to master your 3rd and 4th bridges (if applicable to your voice)

sing with finished sounds and less assistance
5.1 Electives
It is important to us that teachers begin to develop their skills in areas outside of
technique in order to help them become a well- rounded teacher. The elective
modules of education cover a variety of things we feel teachers would benefit from
learning as well as those that have been requested. These cover elements of style,
business, musicality, performance and more. Every year we re-examine the elective
modules we offer and introduce new classes as well as expanding old classes.
All of these classes are delivered online and each course is offered twice a year at
different times of the day to allow teachers all over the world to attend at a convenient
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time. All classes are recorded so that in certain circumstances, teachers may also have
the option to watch the class at a later date. The majority of modules consist of 3 hourlong group classes plus an individual lesson with the course lecturer. In some modules
the individual lesson may be substituted for another learning tool of similar value.
5.2 Online teacher training
Besides regional teacher training events, IVA is providing online teacher training in the
form of private lessons, webinars, presentations and videos through Skype and other
webinar technology.
Some online teacher training will be accessible to all IVA student teachers and certified
teachers through the online dashboard.
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6 Certification process and details
6.1 Student Teachers (ST)
6.1.1 Definition of “student teacher”
An IVA Student Teacher is a teacher who has successfully entered the IVA certification
program by getting application approval and paying the IVA Student Teacher Program
Fee.
The IVA Student Teacher status lasts between 12 and 24 months, depending on date
of entry and date of first testing for IVA Instructor I certificate.
An IVA Student Teacher has access to all education offered by the IVA ST Program and
is encouraged to take advantage of it as much as possible.
A Student Teacher is not allowed to advertise his/her teaching and business with the
IVA name and logo.
6.1.2 Prerequisites
To qualify as an IVA Student Teacher, we expect the following prerequisites.
(Prerequisites are determined by looking at your previous experience in a voice
teacher certification program vs. no previous experience).
Requirements for teachers with no previous experience

Minimum 18 years old - verified in your online application

Two reference letters, one from your current Certified IVA Instructor and one
from a Master Teacher. You must have taken at least one lesson from this MT.

Basic vocal musicianship skills, at the very least the ability to sing a song in tune
and time - verified by video or by your teacher

Be working toward a basic understanding of English, at the very least be able to
use our teaching terminology - verified by your teacher

Ability to play all six main scales on the piano in all keys - verified by video or by
your teacher

Pay the one-time $450 Student Teacher Program Fee (non-refundable)
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Minimum requirements for teachers with previous experience
 Minimum 18 years old - verified in your online application
 Education, experience and skills from another certification program. Your teaching
and vocal skills must be complimentary to our pedagogy and technique. IVA
reserves the right to require an entrance exam from any teacher applying for
Recognition of Previous Learning.
 Basic vocal musicianship skills, at the very least the ability to sing a song in tune and
time - verified by video or by your teacher
 Be working toward a basic understanding of English, at the very least be able to use
our teaching terminology - verified by your teacher
 Ability to play all six main scales on the piano in all keys - verified by video or by
your teacher
6.1.3 Certification requirements

10 hours of Voice Training (5 with one or more IVA Master Teachers. The
remaining 5 hours may be taken with an MT or with an IVA Advanced or
Mentor Instructor)

1 hour of Mock Testing (2 half hours) with one or more IVA MTs

2 hours of Testing with ONE MT (1 hour voice test and 2 half hours of teaching
while a Master Teacher observes)

1 full day of Teacher Training or 3 Master Teacher webinars

1 Elective Class (Piano or Studio Business recommended)

Online written test

4 hours of mentoring by IVA Instructor IIIs

Required reading: TBA

Recommendation: 5 hours of observation of Master Teachers
Testing can only be completed during testing season, meaning September/October of
each year.
Testing hours can only be scheduled once all Voice Training hours have been
completed.
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All certification requirements have to be completed by November 1st of the testing
year.
6.1.4 Estimated costs and Methods of Payment
Student Teacher Program Fee (non-refundable)
$450
10 hours of Voice Training
$800 + $500
1 hour of Mock Testing
$160
2 hours of testing
$320
1 full day of teacher training or 3 webinars
$250 or $150
1 Elective Class
$250
Estimated Total Costs
$2,730
**Individual and total costs are only estimates. Some prices may vary and are listed
only for your general awareness.
Travel and accommodation costs at events, as well as IVA Teacher Conference are not
included in this calculation.
Program fees, License fees, Teacher Trainings and Elective Classes are paid through
PayPal or credit card.
Private voice lessons (voice training), mock testing hours and testing hours are paid
directly to the Master Teachers.
6.1.5 Certification period
The period as a Student Teacher takes at least 12 months and up to 24 months. Within
time frame, the certification requirements must be fulfilled and successful testing
completed.
You can register as an IVA Student Teacher at any time during the calendar year.
However, you will have to be in the program at least 12 months before testing for IVA
Instructor I certificate. Testing season for IVA Student Teachers, as well as IVA certified
teachers is September and October of every year.
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6.1.6 Certification logbook
As soon as your application has been approved by IVA, you will get the login
information to access the IVA teacher dashboard.
On the IVA website, each IVA Student Teacher, as well as IVA Certified Teacher has his
or her own profile and log book. You must log all lessons, teacher trainings and other
requirements within 48 hours of completion.
6.1.7 Steps to sign up

Fill out the online application form on the IVA website (including prerequisites
and reference letters) and agree to the general terms and conditions of the IVA
Instructor Certification Program. You will receive a confirmation email, as soon
as your application has been submitted to IVA.

The IVA Master Teachers will review your application, and additional
information might be requested.

As soon as your application has been approved, you will have to pay $ 450 ST
Program Fee (non-refundable).

Be invited to create a login on the IVA website and add more personal
information.

If an application is rejected, the applicant will be notified by email.

Please contact your Area Representative. Your AR will assist you with any
questions regarding the certification process and will keep you posted on IVA
news and events.

Now you can start fulfilling and logging the certification requirements. We
recommend following the “Guidelines for Student Teachers” which you will
find in the Student Teacher Handbook (for download on the dashboard).
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6.1.8 Communication
Your main contact person will be the AR of your country.
Please find your AR on the IVA website!
If you have questions regarding the IVA certification process please contact:
Corey Wardle [email protected]
If you have questions regarding payment to IVA please contact:
Tom Bathgate [email protected]
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7. Certified IVA Instructors, Certified Advanced
Instructors and Certified IVA Mentor Instructors
7.1 Annual certification requirements and estimated costs
Once you achieve the Instructor I Certificate, the requirements for Instructor II
Certificate are:
Annual license fee
8 hours Voice Training (5 w/ MT & 3 w/ Advanced or Master
Teacher)
1 hr Mock Testing (2 x 30 mins)
2 hours testing with one MT(1 hour voice test & 2 x 30 mins
teaching while MT observes )
1 full day TT or 3 MT webinars
1 Elective
$400
$800 + $300
$160
$320
$250 or $150
$250
Online written test
Required reading: TBD
4 hours mentoring by Advanced Instructor
Recommended: 5 hours observation of MT
Estimated Yearly Cost (annually)
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$ 2,080 + $400 license fee
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Once you achieve the Instructor II Certificate, the requirements for Instructor III
Certificate are:
Annual license fee
8 hours Voice Training (5 w/ MT & 3 w/ Advanced or Master
Teacher)
1 hr Mock Testing (2 x 30 mins)
2 hours testing with one MT(1 hour voice test & 2 x 30 mins
teaching while MT observes )
1 full day TT or 2 MT webinars
1 Elective
4 hours mentoring by Mentor Instructor
Required reading: TBD
Assigned repertoire
Recommended: 4 hours observation of MT
Estimated Yearly Cost (annually)
$400
$800 + $300
$160
$320
$250 or $100
$250
$ 2,080 + $400 license fee
** Individual and total costs are only estimates. Some prices may vary and are listed
only for your general awareness.
Travel costs to and accommodation costs at events, as well as IVA Teacher Conference
are not included in this calculation.
Testing hours can only be scheduled once all Voice Training hours have been
completed.
All annual certification requirements have to be completed by November 1st of each
year.
After IVA Instructor III is awarded, teacher is eligible to stay at this level of certification,
complete continuing education requirements, and pay annual cert fee to stay licensed
and “in good standing”.
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Option 1: Requirements towards Advanced Instructor Certificate
Annual license fee
$400
4 hours Voice Training w/ MT
$640
1 hour Mock Testing (2 x 30 mins)
$160
2 hours testing one MT (1 hr voice test & 2x 30 mins teaching while
MT observes)
$320
1 x 30 mins Panel test
$160
2 MT webinars or 1 full day TT
2 Electives
$100 or $250
$500
Online written test
Required reading
Large project - research paper, community outreach or jury concert
Assigned repertoire
mentors PCs for 4 hrs
Recommendation: 3 hours observation of MT
Estimated Yearly Cost (annually)
$1,880 + $ 400
license fee
Option 2: Staying at Instructor III Certificate (continuing education)
Annual license fee
$400
2 hours Voice Training w/ MT
$320
2 hours testing every 2 years (1 hour voice test & 2 x 30 mins teaching
while MT observes)
$320
1 MT webinar (new KeyNotes or Revised Info) or 1 full day TT
$50 or $250
Mentors Student Teachers for 4 hrs
Assigned repertoire
Estimated Yearly Cost (annually)
$ 530 + $ 400
license fee
After IVA Advanced Instructor is awarded, teacher is eligible to stay at this level of
certification, complete continuing education requirements, and pay annual fee to stay
licensed and “in good standing”.
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Option 1: Requirements towards Mentor Instructor Certificate
Annual license fee
$ 400
4 hrs Voice Training w/ MT
$ 640
2 hours testing (1 hr voice test & 2 x 30 mins teaching while MT
observes)
$320
1 half hour Panel test
$160
2 MT webinars or 1 full day TT
2 Electives
$100 or $250
$500
Online written test
Required reading
Large project - research paper, community outreach or jury concert
Assigned reading
Assigned repertoire
Mentors Instructor I for 4 hrs
Recommendation: 3 hours observation of MT
Estimated Yearly Cost (annually)
$ 1,720 + $ 400
license fee
Option 2: Staying at Advanced Certificate (continuing education)
Annual license fee
$400
2 hours Voice Training w/ MT
$320
2 hours testing every 2 years (1 hour voice test & 2 x 30 mins teaching
while MT observes)
$320
1 MT webinar (new KeyNotes or Revised Info) or 1 full day TT
$50 or $250
Assigned repertoire
Mentors Instructor I for 4 hrs
Estimated Yearly Cost (annually)
$530 + $ 400
license fee
After IVA Mentor Instructor is awarded, teacher will stay at this level of certification,
complete continuing education requirements, and pay annual fee to stay licensed and
“in good standing”.
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Mentor Instructor – Continuing Education
Annual license fee
$400
2 hours Voice Training w/ MT
$320
2 hours testing every 2 years (1 hour voice test & 2 x30 mins teaching
while MT observes)
$320
1 MT webinar (new KeyNotes or Revised Info)
$50
Assigned repertoire
Mentors 2s for 4 hrs
Mentoring by MTs
Leadership & course instructor
Estimated Yearly Cost (annually)
$ 530 + $ 400
license fee
** Individual and total costs are only estimates. Some prices may vary and are listed
only for your general awareness.
Travel costs to and accommodation costs at events, as well as IVA Teacher Conference
are not included in this calculation.
Testing hours can only be scheduled once all Voice Training hours have been
completed.
All annual certification requirements have to be completed by November 1st of each
year.
7.2 Payments
ST Program fees, License fees, Teacher Trainings and Elective Classes are paid through
PayPal or credit card.
Private voice lessons (voice training), mock testing hours and testing hours are paid
directly to the Master Teachers.
License fees can be paid on a payment plan. Payment plans are 1 yearly, 2 six monthly
or 10 monthly payments. Credit card payments can be setup to be automatic every
time they are due a payment based on their payment plan.
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7.2.1 Payment plan options

1 payment of $400 (due by 5th January)

2 x payments of $105 (1st payment due 5th January, 2nd payment due 5th July)

10 payments of $42.50 (due by 5th of the month, January – October)
7.3 Certification calendar
Once you become certified, here is the certification calendar that all certified teachers
adhere to:

Jan 1st - Certification year begins

Jan 5th - First payment due for license fee

After your payment and completed logbook are verified, new certificates will
be issued.

Jan 1-August 31 - Education Season: all Voice Training and Teacher Training
must be completed

Sept 1-Oct 31 - Testing Season: all testing must be completed during these
months

All certification requirements must be completed by November 1st of the
testing year.
7.4 Certification period
A certified IVA instructor I through III has to remain in each certificate for at least 2
years. Within each certificate the annual requirements have to be fulfilled every
calendar year.
After the Instructor III certificate is awarded, teacher is eligible to stay at this level of
certification, complete continuing education requirements, and pay annual fee to stay
licensed and “in good standing”.
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If the instructor decides to proceed to IVA Advanced Certificate, it will take another 2
years to fulfill the appropriate requirements.
Then the teacher has the same choice: to stay at Advanced and do continuing
education or to proceed on to pursue their IVA Mentor certificate.
7.4.1 Possibility of remaining in a certain level
Once you achieve the IVA Instructor I certificate, you will have to continue with the
certification process through the IVA Instructor III certificate! At this certificate, you can
decide, if you would like to proceed with the IVA Advanced and Mentor Certificates, or
if you would like to hold at this certification, complete annual continuing education,
and stay licensed by paying the annual fee. (see above)
7.4.2 Large Projects for Advanced and Mentor Certificates
In order to complete both the Advanced and Mentor Certificates, the teacher must
complete one Large Project per certificate. They may complete their project any time
during the two years working toward the certificate.
Teachers have a choice between three options for their Large Project. However, they
may not repeat the same choice for both their Advanced and Mentor projects:
7.4.3 Research Paper
The teacher will investigate and write a paper about a topic that adds to IVA’s research
and knowledge base.
Sample topic: the difference between a “belt” and a “legit” mix in the female musical
theatre voice

3000-5000 words

submit a 200 word thesis proposal to the MTs for approval first

research may include books, journals, media, questionnaires, experiments, etc.

must include a works cited page, MLA style
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7.4.4 Community Outreach Project
The teacher will design, develop and execute a project whereby the skills they have
learned at IVA can be donated to the benefit of their community. This a chance for IVA
to “give back.”
Possible ideas: volunteering to teach music at a school with no budget for the arts,
starting a community glee club or choir, music directing for a community theatre,
developing a singing contest, etc.

25+ hours including planning and execution

first submit a proposal to MTs for approval

write a 800 -1200 report at the end of the project
7.4.5 Jury Recital
The teacher will plan, promote, and execute a recital in front of a live audience.

15-25 hours including planning, rehearsals, and performance

teacher must journal each stage of the process and submit a thorough synopsis
of the journal

30-60 minute recital, performed before a live audience, submitted to the MT via
video and accompanied by a written set list/program

the size of the event does not matter, and the teacher need not spend money
for the venue (possibly coffee shop, church, club, theatre, public library recital
hall, home, etc.)

teacher is highly encouraged to collaborate (possibly musicians, BGV singers,
dancers, etc.)

marketing (possibly posters, social media, tickets, etc.)

a classical recital should be done with live accompanist or ensemble

the opportunity may be presented for willing instructors to perform their jury
recital at the annual Teacher Conference. This is a possible venue, however not
mandatory.
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8. FAQs
Q) Can I sign up at any time or is there a specific sign up period every year?
A) You can sign up any time during the year, however you can only test during the
testing season (September/October) and you have to be a Student Teacher for at least
12 months.
E.g. If you sign up in June 2013, you will be able to do your testing in
September/October 2014 and will be IVA Instructor I starting January 2015. You
cannot certify mid-year!
Q) Can I take all voice lessons with the MTs online or do some have to be in
person?
A) Yes, you can take all lessons with the IVA Master Teachers online. However, we
highly recommend in person lessons whenever there is an IVA event in your area or
you are traveling to see a Master Teacher.
Q) What is the cost of registration? What do I get for that registration fee?
A) The cost is $450 USD. This includes the entrance to the ST program and access to all
ST education, including some free online education.
Q) How much will MTs charge for their lessons?
All the IVA Master Teachers charge the same amount for their lessons: $ 160 USD per
60min unit
Q) Can I take all lessons with the same MT and also test with that MT?
A) You can take all lessons with the same Master Teacher, however we do recommend
studying with more than only one Master Teacher. You will have to do your testing
with one of the Master Teachers that you haven’t studied with in that year. And all
units of testing must be completed with that same MT.
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9. Leave of Absence and Prolonged Absence
9.1 Leave of Absence
At IVA, we understand circumstances can sometimes make it very difficult to pursue
your education. In situations of hardship, you have the option to apply for a 1 Year
Leave of Absence. In effect, your education will be frozen in time for 12 months.
During the LOA period, your IVA license will be suspended, meaning you won't enjoy
any license benefits during this time (see section 2.2).
The Leave of Absence application can be found in the Teacher Dashboard.
9.2 Prolonged Absence
If you complete one or more certificates and then discontinue your license with IVA,
you must remove the Instructor logo and references to IVA from your marketing
materials. You may still list any certificates in your CV or bio as education completed at
IVA.
However, if, some years later, you wish to return to IVA and re-license, please be aware
that the IVA pedagogy is constantly expanding and you will have to go through a
period of re-education and re-testing specific to the highest level of certification you
held. Any certificate requirements partially completed before the absence will be lost.
Here are the requirements you must complete and testing you must pass in order to
re-license:
1-Year absence:

2 hours private lessons with the MTs

2 hours testing with ONE MT

1 full day TT or 1 webinar covering new KeyNotes and Revised education
2-Year absence:

4 hours private lessons with the MTs

2 hours testing with ONE MT

1 full-day TT and 2 webinars, including new KeyNotes and Revised education
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
1 mini-panel test with TWO MTs observing you teach
Longer than 2-years absence:
Your requirements for re-licensing will be determined on a case-by-case basis. A mini
panel test will most likely be required to help the MTs design your path of reeducation.
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10. Final Note
The information in this manual is subject to change and may be updated by quarterly
updates.
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