Mariam SARKISSIAN

The Sarkissian Method® is a cognitive vocal technique method created by lyric mezzo‑soprano and pedagogue Mariam Sarkissian after a long post‑traumatic self‑reeducation of her own voice. Rooted in the great bel canto tradition yet formulated in contemporary cognitive terms, the method offers a clear, structured way to train and optimise sung and spoken vocal expression for singers, actors, amateurs and professional voice users of all ages, styles and levels.

At the heart of the method lies the Balance Triangle®, an original pedagogical concept that links three interdependent dimensions of vocal expression: creative thought (intention, text, style, imagery, emotion), technical thought (breath, tone, connection, high position) and physical execution. By learning to place every vocal gesture within this mental “coordinate system”, students acquire precise technical automatisms while preserving freedom of imagination, creativity and emotional truth.

Mariam Sarkissian’s synaesthetic notebooks In Search of B Flat offer a literary and poetic gateway into this universe. Through childhood memories, colours, sounds and the essential B flat that structures her inner vector of life and creativity, she describes how mental images, emotions and vocal gesture are linked and constantly interact.

In practical terms, the Sarkissian Method proposes a progressive set of daily exercises and “mental algorithms” that install a stable professional technical base: high vocal position, balanced breath management, unified timbre and healthy powerful and effortless projection. The same core tools are adapted to each voice type and repertoire, and can be used both for initial training and for rehabilitation after vocal fatigue, accidents or technical dead‑ends.

Because its concepts are clearly defined and verbally shareable, the method also provides a common language for teachers and students. It is taught today in numerous conservatoires and schools for actors and singers in France and Belgium, in workshops and masterclasses, and through an online Virtual Course, created by Mariam Sarkissian, that allows singers and speakers worldwide to explore the tools of the method.

Over time, the way the Balance Triangle® organizes technical thought and serves the creative thought has naturally given rise to Vocal Cognitive Stimulation® (VCS): a direct extension of the Sarkissian Method®, in which the same mental algorithms and vocal exercises are used not only for musical or artistic goals but also for other forms of creative thinking and everyday objectives that are not necessarily linked to singing.

Described in Mariam Sarkissian’s book I think, therefore I sing or The Praise of Cognitive Belcanto, the Sarkissian Method® is the first known vocal technique method to explicitly unite artistic creation and cognitive organisation of thought, offering artists a reliable path to technical mastery and the fullest expression of their creativity.