Helena Daffern

Helena Daffern is a Professor in Music Technology at the University of York, specifically within the School of Physics, Engineering and Technology. Her expertise spans singing voice analysis, vocal pedagogy, choral practices, and voice synthesis, with a focus on voice science and acoustics. She has led initiatives like the York Centre for Singing Science and the York Audio Network to foster cross-disciplinary research. A trained BBC expert, she has appeared on programs such as BBC Breakfast and Click for the World Service. Helena also maintains an active professional singing career as a soloist and ensemble member with groups like Opera Holland Park and Yorkshire Baroque Soloists, alongside recording work for Warner Music UK and Oxford University Press.

Education:

• PhD in Music Technology (University of York, 2008)
• MA in Singing Performance (University of York)
• BA (Hons) in an unspecified field
• Postgraduate training at Trinity College of Music

Her research emphasizes the acoustic properties of classical singing techniques, vocal health, and the application of technology in music. By bridging engineering and music, she explores how acoustic spaces and digital tools influence performance and well-being. Recent work includes virtual reality choir interventions for elderly care and the impact of vocal vibrato across genres. She advocates for gender equality in music production and has collaborated on infant vocalization apps like BabblePlay.

Scientific Awards: None explicitly mentioned in the provided text.

Advising and Grants: While no formal advisees or grant details are listed, Helena leads major research projects such as the York Centre for Singing Science and York Audio Network, which likely involve institutional and collaborative funding. Her work with the BBC Maida Vale Recording Studios and the WHO-Lancet Global Series suggests partnerships with external organizations.

Labs and Teams: She runs the York Centre for Singing Science and the York Audio Network, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration in voice research and audio technology. These platforms support her exploration of acoustic environments, immersive music performance, and health-related musical interventions.