Singing Teachers Talk is hosted by BAST Training and features interviews and conversations aimed at singing teachers and singers who want to teach. It offers inspiration and practical information for developing the knowledge, skills, and understanding needed in the profession. The show also highlights BAST Training's courses, including an introductory Foundition course and a Level 5 qualification. It is designed both for those starting out and for experienced singers with gaps to fill.
Episodes
Ep.285 Can AI Teach You to Sing? with Sergey Kühne from Singing Carrots
Could AI be the future of singing education, or is there something about human connection that technology simply can't replace? In this episode, Alexa is joined by Sergey, founder of Singing Carrots, an AI-powered singing platform helping people build confidence and develop their voices. They explore the journey behind Singing Carrots, some of the data collected, and how AI is changing the wa
Ep.284 Finding the Right Repertoire: What SIX Can Teach Singing Teachers with Alexa Terry
How do you choose the right repertoire for musical theatre auditions? In this episode of Singing Teachers Talk, we explore the many musical styles of contemporary musical theatre, using SIX the Musical and its six queens as our inspiration. From Beyoncé and Avril Lavigne to Adele and Alicia Keys, discover how pop influences, vocal demands, character and storytelling can help shape repertoire choic
Ep.283 Exploring Gender-Affirming Voice and Vocal Identity with Renée Yoxon
What does it really mean to help someone find a voice that feels like their own? This week, Alexa is joined by gender-affirming voice specialist - Renée Yoxon - to explore the fascinating relationship between voice, gender and identity. From rethinking traditional approaches to vocal training to creating more inclusive spaces for singers, Renée shares fresh perspectives that might just challenge t
Ep.282 How to Support Neurodivergent Singers with Sarah Marrion
How can singing teachers better support neurodivergent singers? In this insightful episode, Alexa is joined by singer, educator and former hospital school deputy head Sarah Marion to explore neurodiversity in singing lessons. From ADHD, autism, Tourette’s and anxiety, to sensory overload, perfectionism and performance overwhelm, Sarah shares practical ways teachers can create safer, more flexible
Ep.281 Becoming Céline: Preparing the Voice for Titanique with Corrine Priest
What does it take to be ready to step into multiple roles in the musical theatre industry Today, Alexa is joined by West End performer and vocal coach Corinne Priest to talk about her time in Titanique, where she covered Céline Dion, Rose and Molly Brown alongside her role as a backing vocalist. Corinne shares how she prepared to embody Céline’s unmistakable vocal style, the realities of switching
Ep.280 What Singing Teachers Need to Understand About Performance Anxiety with Mel Toy
What if performance anxiety isn’t just about what happens on stage? In this episode, Alexa is joined by performance rehabilitation coach and PhD researcher Mel Toy to dig beneath the surface of music performance anxiety. They unpack the surprising factors that can shape anxiety, why common advice doesn’t always help, and how singers and teachers can approach performance with more curiosity, compas
Ep.279 On Vocal Crashes, Career Lessons and Sustainable Singing with Chris Killik
What does it really take to build a sustainable career as a performer? In this episode, Alexa is joined by performer and vocal coach Chris Killik for a warm, funny and refreshingly candid conversation about life in the performing arts. From memorable auditions and unexpected career opportunities to versatility, vocal health and the lessons that only come from experience, Chris shares stories from
Ep.278 Behind Vocalzone: Singers, Stories, and a Century of Vocal Care with Vocalzone's Maria & George
What’s the story behind one of the best-known vocal products on the market? In this episode, Alexa is joined by Maria and George from Vocalzone to uncover the fascinating history behind the century-old family business, and why its distinctive pastilles have become a backstage staple for performers around the world, including Tom Jones, Katherine Jenkins and Michael Ball. They also get into some o
Ep.277 Identity, Self-Worth and Burnout in the Performing Arts with Claire Cannon
What happens when being a singer becomes more than what you do, and starts to define who you are? In this episode, Alexa is joined by vocal coach Claire Cannon to explore the connection between burnout, identity and life in the performing arts. They unpack the idea of identity foreclosure, the pressures of tying self-worth to success, and why burnout is about far more than simply feeling tired. Fr
Ep.276 Inside a Singer's Larynx: Live Laryngeal Scoping With Dr Jennifer Rodney
What’s really happening inside the larynx when we sing? In this fascinating episode, Alexa is joined by laryngologist and singer Dr Jennifer Rodney - aka Singing Surgeon MD - for a rare look inside the voice in action. From vocal registers and tension to vibrato, breathiness, vocal fry and more, Jennifer brings vocal anatomy to life - and even scopes herself live to show us what’s happening in rea
Ep.275 Starting the New Academic Year on the Right Note with Alexa Terry
As September rolls around and a new academic year begins, Alexa reflects on what it means to return to singing, teaching and learning with a fresh perspective. She shares some gentle reminders for singers and singing teachers alike about progress, curiosity, collaboration and being a little kinder to ourselves and each other along the way. Whether you’re heading back into the studio, starting some
Ep.274 The Singer As An Athlete: A Useful Metaphor or a Limiting One? with Line Hilton
In this episode, Alexa and Line take a closer look at the familiar idea of the singer as a ‘vocal athlete’. Drawing on examples from across the performing arts, they explore what the comparison can teach us about the demands placed on singers, and where it might not tell the whole story. From training and performance to vocal health and wellbeing, this conversation invites us to think differently
Ep.273 How to Use Repertoire to Build Vocal Technique with Alexa Terry
What if the ‘right’ song could help bridge the gap between vocal exercises and repertoire? In this episode, Alexa explores how snippets of songs can become useful technical stepping stones. Discover how to analyse repertoire for its vocal demands, identify opportunities for skill-building, and weave them into your lessons so that the singer is always ‘singing.’ About the presenter HERE RELEVANT
Ep.272 Rethinking How We Teach Breathing for Singing with Barbara Tanze and Flexiflow
What do we really know about breathing for singing? Breathing specialist Barbara Tanze returns to explore the evolving science of airflow and pressure regulation in the singing voice. We discuss what research tells us about the diaphragm and respiratory muscles, and why what singers feel may not reflect what is actually happening physiologically. Barbara also introduces the Flexiflow, a tool that
Ep.271 Singer & the Self: Rethinking Singing Teacher CPD with Becky Gilhespie
In this episode, Alexa shares her experience of attending the very first Singer & the Self Singing Teacher CPD Holiday in Slovenia before sitting down with organiser Becky Gillespie to discuss how the event came to life. From voice science, business and wellbeing to spa days, cultural adventures and meaningful conversations, they explore why combining professional development with a holiday cr
Ep.270 How to Help Singers Overcome Fear and Build Confidence with Linor Oren
What happens when a singer desperately wants to sing, but fear, self-doubt and past criticism keep getting in the way? In this episode, Alexa is joined by vocal coach and Sing Anyway author - Linor Oren, to explore singing confidence, stage fright and mindset, questioning what happens when we stop chasing a ‘good’ sound and start exploring what the voice can actually do? Plus, before the conversat
Ep.269 How to Help Singers Learn Faster and Retain More with Noa Kageyama
In this fascinating conversation, performance psychologist Noa Kageyama explores what learning science really tells us about effective practice, mindful learning, and why repetition alone isn't enough. Discover practical, research-backed strategies that can transform the way you plan lessons, deliver them, and help singers structure practice more efficiently, giving you and them fresh ideas t
Ep.268 What Happens When You Fall Out of Love with Performing? with Grace Hancock
Alexa is joined by singer, songwriter and vocal coach Grace Hancock to explore the relationship between music and craft. Together, they have honest conversations about the moments when making music hasn’t felt good and when it has stopped being joyful for them. They discuss burn out, self-worth, comparison and perfectionism, and how singers can reconnect with their craft in a healthier, more authe
Ep.267 Acting Through Song: Practical Tools for Singing Teachers with Molly Marie Walsh
What makes a performance truly believable? In this episode, Alexa is joined by fellow BAST teammate Molly Walsh to explore acting through song and the power of gesture mapping. Together they unpack practical acting techniques that help singers communicate emotion authentically, make purposeful physical choices, and create performances that are both vocally sustainable and dramatically compelling.
Ep.266 8 Tips to Make Belt More Impressive with Alexa Terry
Want a more impressive belt? Before you search for another vocal exercise, you might want to question what you think makes great belting in the first place. In this episode, Alexa Terry shares eight thought-provoking ideas - some that might surprise you. About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Amanda Flynn Voice Study Centre Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.133 Mastering Belt in Musical
Ep.265 Why Singers Get Jaw Tension (And What Actually Helps) with Physiotherapist Emer Tully
In this episode, Alexa is joined once again by physiotherapist Emer Tully to explore the jaw. They unpack why jaw tension isn't always about the jaw itself, how posture, breathing, hypermobility and stress all play a role, and what singers and teachers can do to improve jaw health and function. Whether you struggle with clenching, clicking, or simply want to better understand the biomechanics
Ep.264 Gender Equality in the Music Industry: Where Are We Now? with Vick Bain
In this episode, Alexa is joined by researcher, musician and founder of The F-List, Vick Bain, for an important conversation about gender equality in the UK music industry. Drawing on her PhD research and years of experience, Vick explores the barriers that women and gender-diverse musicians continue to face, from pay gaps and career progression to representation, discrimination and the realities
Ep.263 The Creative Juggle: Singer, Songwriter and Teacher with India Bourne
This week, Alexa chats with artist, songwriter, choir leader, and vocal coach India Bourne about life beyond the stage. From touring the world with Ben Howard to building a thriving teaching career, India shares how completing the BAST Foundation Course deepened her understanding of the voice, transformed her songwriting, and enriched her work with singers. She also opens up about balancing creati
Ep.262 Breaking Down Barriers: Making Arts Education Accessible for All with RABBLE Theatre
What happens when arts education becomes truly accessible? In this inspiring episode, Alexa speaks with Georgina from RABBLE Theatre about breaking down barriers to participation, building confidence through performance, and creating meaningful pathways for young people and adults in the arts. From nurturing performers to supporting wellbeing, creativity, and community engagement, this conversatio
Ep.261 Managing Performance Nerves: Tools For Singers & Singing Teachers with Laura Dumbleton
Why do performers experience stage fright, even when they love being on stage? In this episode, voice coach and breathwork teacher Laura Dumbleton joins Alexa to unpack performance anxiety, fight-or-flight responses, and practical tools to manage nerves before, during and after singing or public speaking. Expect honest stories, functional techniques, confidence strategies, and advice for singers,
Ep.260 The Return of In-Person Training: Our Singing Teacher Intensive in Manchester with Line Hilton
What happens when singing teachers step away from screens and come together in one room? In this episode, Line Hilton shares why BAST is bringing back live, in-person singing teacher training with a special intensive weekend in Manchester, exploring the power of community, CPD, vocal pedagogy, networking, and hands-on learning. Discover who the event is for, what topics will be covered, and why in
Ep.259 Can You Teach Singing Without Demonstrating? with Line Hilton
How important is it that the singing teacher can actually demonstrate the sound they are asking of the singer? This week, Line and Alexa are unpacking the hidden realities behind vocal demonstration, and why giving a demo isn’t always that simple. From physiology and hormones to stamina preservation, this conversation might just make you rethink the expectations we place on ourselves as singing te
Ep.258 10 Plus ‘Legit’ Songs for Musical Theatre Singers with Alexa Terry
In this episode, Alexa dives into the often-misunderstood world of legit musical theatre singing, unpacking what the style really means, why so many performers feel lost when approaching it, and how teachers can guide singers through the journey with confidence. From Golden Age roots to contemporary legit crossovers, she explores key vocal characteristics, common challenges, and practical repertoi
Ep.257 Inside the Voice Clinic: Common Vocal Problems & What Happens Next with ENT Mr Nicholas Gibbins
What are the most common vocal issues singers actually face, and how can we prevent them without falling into the trap of overthinking every tiny symptom? In this engaging and refreshingly honest chat, ENT voice specialist Nick Gibbins breaks down the patterns he sees in clinic, alongside practical insights on building vocal stamina and injury prevention. The conversation tackles what can actually
Ep.256 The Neuroscience of Singing: What the Singer's Brain Needs with Heidi Moss Erickson
A fascinating deep dive into what really happens inside the singer’s brain, this episode explores the surprising intersection of neuroscience, pedagogy, and creativity. Joined by renowned voice expert Heidi Moss Erickson, the conversation unpacks how singing is both incredibly complex and beautifully instinctive revealing why play, imagination, and even a bit of “crazy” can unlock better vocal per
Ep.255 ‘Stop Faking It! Sound’ Book Review with Alexa Terry
Get the honest lowdown before you buy in this fun, insightful review episode of Stop Faking It! Sound. Alexa breaks down whether this book really delivers for singing teachers and vocal coaches, without the usual dry, sleep-inducing science. Along the way, Alexa unpacks key concepts in a way that actually sticks, complete with stories and real-world examples. If you’ve ever felt intimidated by sou
Ep.254 Lessons Learned in the First Year of Teaching Singing with Mark Lowman
Ever wondered what really happens in that all-important first year of teaching? The leap from passion to profession, from ‘maybe one day’ to ‘this is it’ - it’s rarely a straight line. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the journey of Mark Lowman - from a career in hospitality and travel to stepping into life as a vocal coach. What does it take to start from scratch, build a studio, and back yo
Ep.253 The S-Word: Why It's Time to Rethink 'Support' in Singing Teaching with Line Hilton
Line Hilton hosts the Singing Teachers Talk podcast and challenges the continued, vague use of “support” and appoggio in breath management teaching, arguing that research shows no single correct breathing strategy among elite singers and that singers often misidentify what their respiratory muscles are doing. She explains how singing uses much larger lung-volume ranges than speech, often requiring
Ep.252 Cross-Training Through a Latin American Lens: A Modern Vocal Pedagogy with Dr Luciano Simões
This week, Alexa is joined by Dr Luciano Simões to explore cross-training as a modern vocal pedagogy through a Latin American lens, unpacking how singers can develop flexibility, resilience, and stylistic authenticity across different genres. Drawing on the rich hybridity of Latin American music Luciano shares how cross-training equips singers to navigate diverse vocal demands with both technical
Ep.251 10 Plus Songs for Tween Girls with Alexa Terry
In this episode, Alexa explores how to choose repertoire that sits comfortably within developing ‘tween’ voices while still feeling relevant and exciting for young singers today. From musical theatre gems to contemporary chart hits, the episode offers a thoughtfully curated selection of songs alongside practical considerations around vocal range, lyrical appropriateness, and the ever-evolving cult
Ep.250 Building a Musical Theatre Rep Folder That Actually Works with Grace Galloway
In this episode, Alexa is joined by performer and vocal coach Grace Galloway, fresh from her run in Ride the Cyclone in London. Together they dive into one of the biggest questions for musical theatre performers: how to build a rep folder that actually works in the audition room. Grace shares practical advice on choosing songs you can rely on “come rain or shine,” shaping material to fit different
Ep. 249 Why Your Singing Studio Isn’t Growing (And What to Do About It) with Meta Ads Strategist Danny Young
Do you have a stellar service or a product you truly believe in… but you’re just not attracting the right people? In this episode Meta Ads strategist Danny Young breaks down how advertising really works in 2026 — and why understanding strategy and buyer psychology matters more than simply “running ads.” From navigating today’s trust recession to building a powerful Connect & Convert Ecosystem,
Ep.248 Thyroid Tilt Under the Microscope: Perception vs Physiology with Dr Mathias Aaen
What’s really happening inside the larynx when we ‘tilt?’ In this episode, Alexa is joined by voice researcher Dr Mathias Aaen to unpack the science behind thyroid tilt - exploring what his latest studies reveal about pitch, vocal fold lengthening, and healthy singing. The pair cut through common misconceptions, translate research into studio-ready language, and ask the big question: are our teach
Ep.247 The 5-Day Challenge: Clarity, Confidence, and Getting Started as a Singing Teacher with Line Hilton
What if you’re not stuck because you don’t know enough, but because you think you should know everything before you begin? If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by where to start, unsure how to market yourself, or quietly battling imposter syndrome, this episode is for you. We’re exploring why so many singers hesitate to step into teaching — and how a simple 5-Day Challenge might be the reset that bring
Ep.246 Inside TV Drama Voice Work: Coaching Matt Smith, with Candi Underwood
How does a singing teacher land a vocal coaching job on a TV drama? In this episode, Alexa is joined by vocal coach, performer and returning guest - Candi Underwood, who shares her experience coaching Matt Smith for the Sky Atlantic adaptation of The Death of Bunny Munro, based on the novel by Nick Cave. They explore how the opportunity came about, what was required on set, and which skills singin
Ep.245 Technique Meets Artistry: Working with Contemporary Singers with Juliet Russell
Alexa is joined by vocal performance coach Juliet Russell for a rich conversation about identity, artistry, and contemporary vocal training. Juliet shares how she helps singers identify and trust what makes them unique, evolve their voices alongside life and experience, and connect more deeply with audiences — drawing on her work across major TV formats as well as her one-to-one coaching with arti
Ep.244 10 Ways to Help a Singer with Tempo with Alexa Terry
In this episode, Alexa explores tempo and timekeeping in the voice studio — and why struggling with tempo might not be “just a rhythm problem.” If you find yourself working with a singer who rushes, drags, freezes, or falls apart this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and plenty of practical takeaways — all wrapped up in a very relatable Sunday afternoon analogy. About the presenter HERE
Ep.243 House Talent Agency Can Open New Possibilities in Your Singing Studio with Josephine Lancuba
What if your singing studio could open doors to the industry, too? In this episode, Alexa is joined by talent agent and educator Josephine Lancuba, founder of Studio Talent Collective, to lift the curtain on in-house talent agencies. From creating real audition opportunities for your singers to boosting retention, revenue, and industry credibility, Josephine breaks down how singing teachers can st
Ep.242 Understanding Motor Learning: How It Can Help Us Give Better Singing Lessons with Dr Jenevora Williams
To kick off the 2026 season, Alexa and Jenevora Williams dive into the fascinating world of motor learning and what it really means for singing and teaching singing. From walking toddlers and chocolate metaphors to the neuroscience behind skill acquisition, the conversation unpacks why learning to sing is far more complex—and far more human—than we often assume. Together they explore implicit vers
Ep.241 Is Your Pelvic Floor Affecting Your Voice? A Deep Dive with Physiotherapist Emer Tully
We’re wrapping up 2025 with a conversation that will change the way you think about the voice forever. Physiotherapist Emer Tully from Neuro Tour joins us to unravel the vital — and often underestimated — role of the pelvic floor in singing. From breathing mechanics to alignment, from recognising tightness vs. weakness, to understanding why singers, dancers, teachers and performers of all kinds sh
Ep.240 Inside the Master’s Degree: How Postgraduate Study Can Transform Your Teaching & Career with Kaya Herstad-Carney
Thinking about taking your teaching to the next level, diving deeper into your specialist interests, or even writing a degree of your own? In this episode of Singing Teachers Talk, Alexa is joined by educator, performer, and MA creator Kaya Herstad-Carney, who pulls back the curtain on what a master’s degree in the performing arts really offers. From choosing the right pathway and understanding le
Ep.239 10 Common Barriers to Being a Singing Teacher. And How to Overcome Them with Line Hilton
Thinking about becoming a singing teacher but not sure what’s holding you back? In this episode, Alexa and Line break down the most common barriers aspiring singing teachers face. Learn how to get started with what you already know, build confidence step by step, choose the right training, and grow your teaching practice with clarity and purpose. If you’re ready to take the next step in your singi
Ep.238 10 Festive Songs for Your Studio with Alexa Terry
Alexa Terry unwraps ten fresh, fun, and fabulously festive Christmas songs to help singing teachers bring new sparkle into their studios, offering a mix of musical theatre treasures, modern pop tunes, heartfelt ballads, and powerful rock renditions that give both students and teachers a welcome break from the usual overplayed holiday hits. With vocal range guidance, technical teaching opportunitie
Ep.237 Beyond the Vocal Tract: How the Brain Shapes What We Hear with Ian Howell
This week, Alexa chats with the brilliant Ian Howell to explore how we really hear the singers we work with. From psychoacoustics and functional listening to timbre, bias and intention, Ian unpacks the hidden processes behind vocal perception—and how understanding them can transform the way we teach. A deep, fascinating conversation for any singing teacher wanting sharper ears and smarter tools. W
Ep.236 The Academic Path to Pop-Rock with Becky Morton
In this episode, Becky Morton, Principal of Further Education at ACM and Alexa explore what the FE academic route can offer young singers stepping into today’s music industry. Becky shares curriculum structure with project-based training, and how this helps students to build both industry awareness and artist identity. The pair dig into why early professional habits matter, how the diploma pathway
Ep.235 10 ‘Low Belt’ Songs for Female Singers with Alexa Terry
In this episode, Alexa shares 10 brilliant songs that sit in the A4–D5 low-belt zone for female singers — a range full of character, energy, and storytelling potential. From Standard Broadway favourites, 90s pop-rock anthems and modern hits this episode is packed with fresh repertoire ideas, stylistic insight, and creative inspiration for singers and teachers alike. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST 0:38 Why
Ep.234 How to Motivate Student Singers to Practice with Tessa Smith Whicker
What if the secret to better singing practice isn’t doing more, but understanding why we avoid it in the first place? Voice educator Tessa Smith Whicker joins Alexa to explore how her master’s research reshaped her view of practice — from battling guilt and distraction to embracing curiosity and compassion. Discover how to get singers excited about their own practice, how teachers can reframe “you
Ep.233 How Speech Therapy and Aphasia inspired an Etsy Side Hustle with Sami Wong
In this insightful episode, Alexa chats with Sami Wong, a speech and language pathologist who helps clients navigate communication challenges such as aphasia. Sami shares her personal journey into speech therapy, inspired by her late father’s recovery from a stroke, and explains what aphasia really is, and the role music and singing can play in therapy. We also dive into Sami’s creative side hustl
Ep.232 The Vocal Athlete: Inside Touring Life with Mindy Pack
Ever wondered how world-class singers keep their voices strong night after night on global tours? In this episode, we go behind the curtain with Mindy Pack — elite vocal coach to stars like Miley Cyrus, Lil Nas X, Sabrina Carpenter, and Justin Timberlake — to explore the science, strategy, and stamina behind life on the road. Discover how artists build vocal endurance, plus the secrets behind Mind
Ep.231 Evolving Vocal Trends: Training Functional Registration in Contemporary Commercial Music with April Young
Who decides what’s in when it comes to singing styles — how do voice teachers keep up? In this fun and insightful episode, Alexa chats with April Young about how changing trends in pop, musical theatre, and CCM are reshaping vocal training. From falsetto and belt to the science of registers and resonance, we explore how singers can stay healthy, expressive, and ahead of the curve. Perfect for voic
Ep.230 How to Survive Drama School Auditions: 10 Expert Tips with Alexa Terry
Drama school auditions can feel like a mix of excitement, nerves and big dreams. In this episode, Alexa shares her top strategies for surviving and thriving in drama school auditions. From preparation to presence, discover how to bring your best self into the room and make the most of every opportunity. Whether you’re auditioning for the first time or guiding others through the process, this episo
Ep.229 Ways to Make More Money as a Singing Teacher with Zoe Stibi
In this episode of the Singing Teachers Talk Podcast, vocal coach and business mentor Zoe Stibi shares how she turned a career crisis into thriving studios, a booming YouTube channel, and multiple income streams. From raising your rates with confidence to building an online presence that attracts students worldwide, Zoe breaks down practical strategies to help you earn more while working less. WHA
Ep.228 10 Ways to Make Singing Lessons Fun with Alexa Terry
As singing teachers, we might often wonder: are my students actually having fun? Fun doesn’t have to mean over-the-top excitement—it’s about creating moments of joy, curiosity, and connection. In this episode, Alexa shares 10 practical ways to make singing lessons more enjoyable for students of all ages. From playful games and tongue twisters to using props, humour, and mindful moments, these idea
Ep.227 Following Your Bliss: How to Align Your Life and Business
What does it really take to reinvent yourself as a coach or creative? In this episode, we welcome back Gemma Sugrue; singer, entrepreneur, and business mentor to explore how she’s turned her own career pivots into powerful lessons for others. From wedding singer to studio owner, online educator to branding coach, Gemma has never been afraid to follow her curiosity and shed what no longer feels ali
Ep.226 The Rise of AI: Practical Tools and Strategies For the Singing Teacher with Rachael Drury
In this episode of The Singing Teachers Talk Podcast, Alexa chats with Rachael Drury about practical ways voice teachers can use AI to save time, spark creativity, and streamline admin — without losing the vital human connection that makes teaching so powerful. From lesson planning and practice tools to lyric writing and accountability, find out how AI can become a helpful ally in your teaching to
Ep.225 6 Vital Non-Musical Teaching Principles with Conor Angell
In this episode, Alexa sits down with voice teacher and performer Conor Angell to explore his influential article How Do You Teach Voice? Six Vital Non-Musical Teaching Principles. They discuss how these principles shape effective teaching, what’s changed since 2019, and the importance of kindness, agency, and adaptability in the studio. Conor also reveals what he’d now add as a seventh principle,
Ep.224 Your Brain on Art: The Science of Creativity and Healing with Susan Magsamen & Ivy Ross
In this episode we welcome Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross - co-authors of New York Times bestseller Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us, where they explore how the arts are not just entertainment, but vital to human health, learning, and wellbeing.Our guests reveal how art physically changes the brain and body. We discuss neuroaesthetics—the science of how art impacts us—alongside practical
Ep.223 10 Songs for Child Singers with Alexa Terry
Looking for fresh and engaging repertoire for young voices? In this episode, Alexa shares 10 fantastic song choices for pre-pubertal singers (ages 7–11), blending pop, musical theatre, Disney magic, and lyrical gems. Along the way, she unpacks how to adapt tricky material, and keep young singers inspired without shutting down their curiosity. Whether you’re a singing teacher or choir leader, you’l
Ep.222 The Rise of AI: What It Means for Singers & Teachers with Rachael Drury
AI is shaking up the music industry — but what does that mean for singers, teachers, and creatives? In this episode, Alexa chats with Dr. Rachael Drury to unpack how generative AI is impacting songwriting, session work, copyright law, and even live performance. We explore what’s at risk, what’s protected, and what we can still hold onto as humans in a digital age. Whether you’re AI-curious or alre
Ep.221 How Knowing Musical Theatre History Makes You a Better Performer with Molly Marie Walsh
What sets a technically strong performer apart from a truly unforgettable one? In this episode, Molly Marie Walsh — performer, educator, and MT history advocate — unpacks how a deep understanding of musical theatre’s roots enriches performance, informs vocal style, and builds lasting careers. From the social commentary of Hadestown to the escapism of 1930s musicals, Molly and Alexa explore how his
Ep.220 Time Management: Making Time When There Isn't Any with Line Hilton & Alexa Terry
Feeling like there’s never enough time? You’re not alone. In this episode, Alexa and Line tackle one of the biggest challenges for singing teachers (and humans): time management. With humour and practical wisdom, they share simple, effective strategies, from time-blocking and micro-goals to prioritisation hacks and the Pomodoro technique. Whether you’re juggling students, study, or life in general
Ep.219 10 Songs for Male Contemporary Musical Theatre Singers with Conor O’Hara
This week, Alexa is joined by performer and vocal coach Conor O’Hara (fresh from the UK tour of Wicked) to explore 10 standout songs for male singers in the contemporary musical theatre space. From smart audition choices to vocal technique tips, Conor offers practical, performer-led insight that both singers and teachers will find invaluable. Whether you're building your rep book or guiding a
Ep.218 8 Things I’ve Learnt in 8 Years as a Singing Teacher with Alexa Terry
From cruise ship stages to kitchen-table career pivots, Alexa Terry reflects on eight transformative lessons learned over eight years as a singing teacher in this honest, funny, and heartfelt episode of the Singing Teachers Talk podcast. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your teaching journey, this is the perfect mix of personal storytelling, practical insights, and the occasional exis
Ep.217 Setting Up for Success: Singing Teacher’s Studio Essentials with Alexa Terry
Ever wondered what makes a great singing studio setup? In this solo episode, Alexa Terry explores the key elements of a well-equipped singing studio, offering practical insights for teachers working in both private and institutional settings. From essential tools to thoughtful touches that support vocal, emotional, and educational needs, this episode is packed with practical tips for building a sp
Ep.216 Dialects and Accents in the Singing Studio: Challenges & Choices with Louisa Morgan
How do actors convincingly switch accents, and what happens when singing enters the mix? Voice teacher, researcher and spoken voice expert Louisa Morgan returns to explore the rich world of accents and dialects—from phonetics and oral posture to emotional authenticity and ethical considerations. Louisa dives into the challenges singers face when shifting from speech to song in character, how to ma
Ep.215 10 Invaluable Resources for Singing Teachers with Alexa Terry
In this episode, Alexa shares 10 game-changing resources that have transformed her own practice as a singing teacher. From essential books and pitch apps to surprising finds, this episode is packed with fresh inspiration for teachers at every stage of their journey.Which resource could become your new secret weapon? Tune in to find out. About the presenter click HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS
Ep.214 The Secret to a Portfolio Career: Singing, Teaching and Creating with Rosie Williamson
What happens when you mix Julie Andrews, musical theatre, and a dash of cheeky cabaret? This week, Alexa chats to performer and singing teacher Rosie Williamson about her show What Would Julie Do?—a musical comedy cabaret. Rosie shares how she built a heartwarming, hilarious, harmony-filled show that uplifts audiences and champions mental health causes. Plus: perfectionism, parody law, and why you
Ep.213 Medicine to Music. A Journey Back to A Creative Calling with Estelle Idoko
In this episode of Singing Teachers Talk, Estelle Idoko shares her journey from medical school to music school. We explore how she helps others reconnect with their creativity, and what holds so many back from living artistically. Whether you're a singer, teacher, or someone wondering: “Is it too late to live creatively?”, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, stirred, and ready to e
Ep.212 10 Songs to Find Your Pop Style with Hannah Smikle
Want to help your singers master pop stylings like belt, riffing, breathy tone, and yodel flips? Alexa has invited singing coach Hannah Smikle back to the podcast for this practical episode, to share 10 killer pop songs that unlock vocal agility, texture, and expressive flair. What vocal tools can help singers to progress into certain melodies, and how do you apply pop texture in a piano-only spac
Ep.211 Learning Vocal Anatomy through Mindful Colouring with Eimear McCarthy Luddy
In this episode, we chat with Dublin-based singing teacher and voice science enthusiast Eimear McCarthy Luddy. Eimear shares the story behind her #AnatoMonday Vocal Anatomy Colouring Book—a fun, creative resource designed to make vocal anatomy accessible and engaging. We explore her journey from struggling with traditional anatomy materials to creating her own, how she uses anatomy in teaching, an
Ep.210 10 Songs to Celebrate Pride in your Studio with Alexa Terry
In this episode ahead of Pride Month, Alexa Terry shares 10 vibrant, emotional, and empowering songs to celebrate LGBTQ+ voices in your singing studio. From folk rock belting to acoustic remixes and Broadway ballads, discover repertoire that not only expands vocal technique, but also tells meaningful stories. Which of these tracks will you be adding to your Pride playlist? About the presenter clic
Ep.209 From DC To Nashville: The Art of Gospel Singing with Amos Evans
How can we define ‘gospel,’ and what are the nuances of the style that give it its name? This week, Alexa joins Nashville-based vocal coach and music producer, Amos Evans, to chat about chords, riffs, vibrato and other textures which can contribute to an aesthetic gospel sound. Hit play for teaching tips, advice to choir leaders - and to be serenaded! WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 0:52 Who is Amos Eva
Ep.208 The Best Vocal Exercises for Warm Ups & Cool Downs with Line Hilton & Alexa Terry
Are ‘warm ups’ and ‘cool downs’ really necessary for singers? In this episode, Alexa and Line dive into the why, when, and how of warming up and cooling down the voice. With a mix of science, personal insight, and practical tips (yes, including vibrators!) Tune in to rethink your routine and pick up tools that actually work for your voice. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 0:43 Should singers warm up? 2:01
Ep.207 Singing at the End of Life: The Magic of Music in Hospices with Joseph Cavalli-Price
What if one of the most powerful moments of someone’s life happened in their final days? And what if that moment was because of music? Founder of Music in Hospices, Joe Cavalli-Price, shares astonishing stories of how live music can transform palliative care, and how singers can bring joy to the dying. This emotional and uplifting episode might just change the way you think about music, care, and
Ep.206 Singing, Psychotherapy and the Voice: Exploring Deeper Connections with Stephen King
In this thought-provoking episode, Stephen King returns to explore the deep links between psychology and voice. How can we integrate body psychotherapy into our lessons without a psychology degree? And how can we respond when we don’t have all the answers? This episode invites you to rethink what it means to really listen. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 2:40 From vocal coach to psychotherapist 16:30 How
