Michael Bonshor
University of Sheffield
United Kingdom

Michael Bonshor is a PhD candidate in the Department of Music at the University of Sheffield. He holds a Masters degree in music psychology, specializing in the management of performance anxiety in adult singers. Michaels doctoral research is an exploration of some of the factors relating to differing levels of confidence amongst adult amateur choral singers. This is a qualitative study, including focus groups and in-depth interviews with singers and conductors, and is based on a phenomenological approach. Michaels research interests include vocal development; the aetiology of self-professed non-singer status; musical development and education; choir building and choral training; collective self-efficacy and group dynamics within musical ensembles; musical leadership; concepts and attributions of musical ability; the benefits of participation in musical activities throughout the life span, and the facilitation of inclusiveness in adult amateur choral ensembles. These research interests are informed by Michaels previous experience as a professional singer, as well as by his career as a vocal coach, accompanist and choral director. He is currently completing a collection of original choral arrangements designed for beginner and intermediate choirs, which includes arrangements suitable for mixed choirs and upper-voice or cambiata ensembles.