Singing Teachers Talk

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 of building a sustainable career in music. It's a thought-provoking discussion that challenges assumptions, shares the evidence behind the headlines, and asks what role we can play in creating a more inclusive future for the artists we teach. Just to let you know some listeners may find some of the topics discussed distressing - take a pause, and we will be right there waiting when you’re ready. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:28 About Vick’s PhD: Women's Careers in the UK Music Industry 2:02 What are some of the biggest gender inequality issues currently? 5:50 Age discrimination and pay gap statistics 15:55 The ‘what about Adele’ question 25:06 Where are women missing? 27:13 What happens when women ‘over-represent’ in a field? 29:44 Being a freelancer 32:57 The red flags 36:11 Political landscapes 40:15 The F-List About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS The UK Music Diversity Taskforce Musicians Union Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.263 The Creative Juggle: Singer, Songwriter and Teacher Musician Census of 2024 Government pay gap reports Intellectual Property Office Gov Misogyny in Music PRS for music Independent Society of Musicians Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.117 The ISM: What Singers and Singing Teachers Need to Know Reform Our Contract With You ABOUT THE GUEST Vick Bain is an EDI and Research Consultant with nearly 30 years' experience in the music and creative industries. Formerly CEO of the Ivors Academy and Past President of the Independent Society of Musicians, she now leads a consultancy specialising in strategic research, impact evaluation, and diversity and inclusion. A Henley Business School MBA graduate, Vick is completing a PhD at Queen Mary University of London on women's careers in music. She is the Founder of The F-List for Music CIC, a not-for-profit supporting women and gender diverse musicians across the UK and serves as a board director of the ISM. Her clients include IMPALA, Counterculture, Beggars Group, UK Music, Beatport and Attitude is Everything. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and Companion of LIPA - appointed by Sir Paul McCartney - she is included in both the Music Week Women in Music Roll of Honour and the BBC Radio 4 Woman's Hour Music Industry Powerlist. Vick trained as a classical singer in the early 1990s, holding Grade 8 singing, an HND in Classical Music (Voice) and a BA in Performing Arts. She recorded and performed with experimental artist Rapoon, sang for many years with the London Bulgarian Choir – during whose time they were runners-up in the BBC Choir of the Year and performed alongside numerous pop and rock acts. She recently joined a Cornish choir, continuing a lifelong relationship with singing. Website The F List Instagram LinkedIn 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 creativity, teaching, and motherhood, revealing how life as a mum has shaped her artistry, sharpened her instincts, and helped her to continue creating a sustainable, fulfilling career in music. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:08 What venues are India’s favourite to play? 3:38 What has India learnt through touring and being a human in the music industry? 6:06 Does teaching ever feel in tension with being an artist? 12:37 India’s experience with BAST 14:50 How has being a classically trained cellist influenced artistry and teaching? 18:10 Songwriting and creative ideas 25:07 Singing and training emotion in music 30:02 Being the creative juggler 33:26 Protecting your own creativity 35:35 India’s new music About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Ben Howard Man and Superman by George Bernard Shaw Why Doing Nothing Can Change Your Life by Joseph Jebelli Heidi Moss Erickson Singing in the Brain: Ep.2: The Spaces in Between - Part1 Rest Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.256 The Neuroscience of Singing: What the Singer’s Brain Needs Middle Farm Studios Outside venue ABOUT THE GUEST India Bourne is a classically trained musician, songwriter and vocal coach whose voice has travelled the world as a long-time member of Ben Howard's live band. Singing and playing cello, bass and percussion, she has spent years immersed in shared stages and shifting landscapes. Alongside this, she has released music as Tender Central, where electronica and folk intertwine in songs that echo the emotional depth of Massive Attack, Lamb and Joni Mitchell. Now, India returns to releasing music under her own name. This new collection is shaped by long-standing musical relationships, featuring collaborators Mickey Smith, Nat Wason and Rich Thomas alongside her all-female choir, The Big Skirts. Recorded live to tape at Middle Farm Studios with producer Peter Miles, these are songs of initiation and becoming - of motherhood, grief, nature, and new life - held together by the rare chemistry of old friends playing in the same room. At the heart of the record is the voice, or rather voices. India writes with her women vocalists in mind, weaving their lines together as a living fabric from which melodies emerge. The result is music that feels both grounded and expansive, rooted in collective breath, resonance and connection. Website Instagram The Big Skirts 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 conversation is packed with insights for singing teachers, drama educators, arts leaders, and anyone passionate about the transformative power of creative education. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 3:25 What is RABBLE Theatre? 5:00 The RABBLE mission 7:27 Education and Youth programmes at RABBLE 12:07 RABBLE is looking for freelance singing teachers! 13:31 The wellbeing benefits of the arts 15:36 Getting financial support from RABBLE 17:22 Nurturing Performers 19:53 Fundraising tips 23:21 Pushback and grants 25:25 Make a donation About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Seamus Allen (Improvisation) Holiday Activities Fund Chris Mitchell Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.222 The Rise of AI: What it Means for Singers and Singing Teachers Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.226 The Rise of AI: Practical Tools and Strategies for the Singing Teacher Arts Council Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.162 Voices of the South West: Building Community with the Southwest Voice Hub Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.224 Your Brain on Art: The Science of Creativity and Healing ABOUT THE GUEST RABBLE Theatre is an education charity that tells local stories of national significance. They have a large education department, engaging over 2,000 young people and adults every year, 141 of whom access their work through the RABBLE access fund. Website @rabble_theatre on Instagram @rabbletheatre on Tik Tok Contact RABBLE to collaborate 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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, performers and vocal coaches navigating stage fright. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 2:39 What is stage fright? 4:17 Why might a singer experience stage fright? 5:55 Why has performing not evolved to become less stress-provoking? 9:40 Symptoms of stage fright to look out for 12:59 Is it true that ‘some nerves can be helpful?’ 15:25 The Boiling Pot Analogy 19:20 Stage fright myth busting 21:39 Strategies for stage fright About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.155 Part One: Building Neurodiversity-Inclusive Voice Studios Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.156 Part Two: Building Neurodiversity-Inclusive Voice Studios Dave Cottrell: @mindsetbydave Stress Less: Breath More - Simple Breathing Exercises for Stress Relief Sarah Joyce: @sarahjoycesings Jessie J - Watch Me Work Through a Panic on Stage Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.80 Understanding Music Performance Anxiety ABOUT THE GUEST Laura Dumbleton is a Stage Fright Coach, Voice Coach and Breathwork Teacher with over fourteen years of experience working with singers and voice teachers. She specialises in why technically prepared singers still struggle under pressure, and what can be done about it. She is passionate about getting rid of “just practice more!” as a solution and instead replacing it with actual tools to address the underlying problem. Laura works from her studio in Lincolnshire and online with clients worldwide, offering 1:1 coaching, group workshops, and courses covering musical theatre voice, stage fright, and performance confidence. Her Stage Fright workshops bring together the science of performance anxiety, vocal technique, and nervous system regulation, giving singers and teachers practical tools for building genuine confidence that holds up under pressure. Breathwork runs through everything she does, from coherence breathing to conscious connected breathwork, whether as a standalone session or woven into performance coaching. She holds a Masters of Research from the University of Edinburgh specialising in performance anxiety in singers, alongside being an IVA Advanced Instructor and qualified Breathwork Facilitator and Teacher with Breathing Space. Website Instagram 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 investing in your development as a singing teacher could transform both your confidence and your teaching. Plus, find out how to get your tickets, access an exclusive podcast discount, and join us on 20–21 June. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:36 What happens in a room full of singing teachers that can’t happen online? 3:00 What has BAST been cooking up? 7:11 How to get a ticket 8:37 The BAST Intensive schedule 11:17 What might I take away from a weekend intensive event? 14:32 What if I don’t know anyone? 17:15 What is Line the most excited about? About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Line Hilton Focus On Events Manchester College GET YOUR TICKETS FOR THE BAST MANCHESTER INTENSIVE 2026 HERE YOUR SPECIAL DISCOUNT CODE: STTINTENSIVESPECIAL 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 teachers, whilst also recognising the very real importance of keeping our own voices ready. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 2:33 How important is it for a singing teacher to demonstrate? 4:32 When should a singing teacher demonstrate? 6:33 Demonstration and physiology 10:49 Demonstration and the opposite sex 15:48 Demonstration and illness 20:55 Demonstration and injury 25:54 Demonstration and the working singer 31:00 Demonstrating and hormones About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Line Hilton Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.254 Lessons Learned in the First Year of Teaching Singing with Mark Lowman Vocalzone Vocalzone, Saviours or Destroyers? Article Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.257 Inside the Voice Clinic: Common Vocal Problems & What Happens Next with ENT Mr Nicholas Gibbins Ejae Renée Fleming Singing and The Premenstrual Voice Article Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.102 Understanding Singing and Menopause with Joanna Bozeman Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.201 Working with Hypermobile Singers with Sarah Algoet 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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 repertoire suggestions to help singers build versatility without overwhelm. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST 0:42 Defining ‘legit’ 4:16 Common technical challenges 5:44 10+ ‘legit’ song ideas About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS musicnotes.com So You Want To Sing Musical Theatre by Amanda Flynn NATS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.133 Mastering Belt in Musical Theatre ABOUT THE GUEST Alexa runs a singing tuition practice in the South of England, and is a singing tutor at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools – Italia Conti, where she also regularly panels auditions and assessments. Alexa is the host of the BAST Training Singing Teachers Talk podcast, mentors for the BAST Training Level 5 qualification, and has presented on topics of Musical Theatre repertoire, authentic Musical Theatre performance, and imposter syndrome for Vocology in Practise and The Sing Space. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website Instagram: @AlexaTerryVocalCoaching 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 be detected via laryngostroboscopy, reflux, hypermobility, rehabilitation, and Nick also tackles some questions from you, the listeners. Expect expert knowledge, myth-busting, and plenty of down-to-earth, relatable discussion that every singer and teacher will benefit from hearing. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 5:21 What singers does Nick see in clinic? 8:16 Patterns of challenge and injury in singers 13:06 Reflux 17:38 Preparing for vocal load increase 24:10 What can you actually tell about a singer via laryngostroboscopy? 26:46 Hypermobility 36:25 Surgery and recovery 41:08 Singing teachers and rehabilitation 47:52 Can you feel your vocal folds? 54:22 Vocal hygiene without the hype About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Declan Costello Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.87 87 How to Manage Allergies and Upper Respiratory Infections Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.201 Working with Hypermobile Singers British Laryngological Association CEORL-HNS Congress ABOUT THE GUEST Mr Nicholas Gibbins is a Consultant Laryngologist and Head & Neck Surgeon at the University Hospital Lewisham. Trained in London and the South-East of England, Nick has built a reputation as an excellent surgeon, teacher and lecturer. Patient outcomes are a key focus for Nick and, along with the whole of the renowned voice team at Lewisham, has built the largest Voice Database in Europe to analyse outcomes. His key interests in the voice are the diagnosis and treatment of vocal fold scars and sulci, and the care and treatment of the professional voice. More recently he has been sought after to lecture on musculoskeletal problems that can either originate in the larynx causing muscle tension imbalance or that arising distally and effect the biomechanics of the voice. He has built a team that can address all these issues that includes speech therapists, osteopaths, vocal rehabilitation coaches, kinetic chain specialists, gastroenterologists, neurologists and more. He writes and publishes regularly and is the current Editor of the Chapter on the Larynx for Gray’s Anatomy (43rd Ed). His term of office as President of the British Laryngological Association began in 2025. 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 performance. This episode challenges singers and teachers alike to embrace a more brain-friendly, joyful approach to vocal training. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 4:19 Is singing really that complex? 7:58 Nature Vs. Nuture 10:19 Brain data for singing 12:03 The order of things: The Holy Grail P1 23:10 Integral parts to the brain’s prediction for singing 29:42 Neurodiversity inclusivity 34:02 The role of intention 39:12 The order of things: The Holy Grail P2 46:26 The brain and learning expectations 54:29 Who needs to understand ‘singing in the brain?’ About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS The work of Richard Miller Erich Jarvis Heidi’s Singing in the Brain Series The work of Ingo Titze Voce Vista Singing With Your Whole Self by Samuel H Nelson & Elizabeth L Blades Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.63 Developing a Singer’s Self Awareness And Clarifying Intention Edward Chang UCSF Journal of Singing ABOUT THE GUEST Heidi Moss Erickson is an acclaimed soprano, educator, and scientist who has performed on major national and international stages and with leading regional opera companies. A strong advocate for contemporary music, she has premiered works by renowned composers and collaborated with artists such as Jake Heggie and Tarik O’Regan. She has earned top honors in prestigious vocal competitions, including the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. Her academic background in voice, biology, and neuroscience has also led to contributions to significant scientific publications. After a rare nerve injury, Erickson developed an innovative, neuroscience-based approach to vocal pedagogy, now applied across multiple musical genres. She teaches and lectures internationally and shares her work through publications, courses, and her “Singing in the Brain” series. Committed to accessibility, she founded a non-profit providing voice lessons to underserved communities and continues to connect science and singing through her research and writing. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 sound science or wondered which resources are truly worth your time and money, this episode will help you decide with confidence. About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS (NSTA) National Science Teaching Association Evolve by Chris Johnson Brian Diskin Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.248 Thyroid Tilt Under the Microscope: Perception vs Physiology Ken Bozeman Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.146 How to Understand and Apply Vocal Acoustic Pedagogy Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.172 Understanding Acoustic Registers Chadley Ballantyne Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.52 Getting to Grips with Vocal Acoustics Ian Howell Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.237 Beyond the Vocal Tract: How the Brain Shapes What We Hear ABOUT THE GUEST Alexa runs a singing tuition practice in the South of England, and is a singing tutor at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools – Italia Conti, where she also regularly panels auditions and assessments. Alexa is the host of the BAST Training Singing Teachers Talk podcast, acts as mentor and unit tutor for the BAST Training Level 5 qualification, and has presented on topics of Musical Theatre repertoire, authentic Musical Theatre performance, and imposter syndrome for Vocology in Practice and The Sing Space. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website Instagram: @AlexaTerryVocalCoaching 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 yourself when imposter syndrome creeps in? This is an honest look at that first year: the turning points, the practical steps, and the mindset shifts that make it all possible. It’s about more than technique - it’s about courage, reinvention, and finding your voice not just as a singer, but as a teacher. Let’s get into it. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 0:50 A bit about Mark 9:05 Putting ‘transferable skills’ to use 11:26 Choirs: Managing different personalities, needs and abilities 16:50 Demonstration: The challenge as a male presenting singing teacher 21:20 The first steps to becoming a singing teacher 27:38 Managing imposter syndrome 35:04 What has changed Mark’s mind on? 39:03 Mark’s mission 47:32 What keeps Mark excited about teaching? About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Vocalize Choirs Singing Teachers Talk Ep.102 - Understanding Singing and Menopause Singing Teachers Talk Ep.247 - The 5-Day Challenge: Clarity, Confidence and Getting Started as a Singing Teacher Singing Teachers Talk Ep.154 - Managing Imposter Syndrome, Low Confidence and Overwhelm as Singing Teachers Chris Johnson Vocal Coach Singing Teachers Talk Ep.195 How Unlocking Your True Values Can Transform Your Teaching and Life Singing Teachers Talk Ep.227 Following Your Bliss: How to Align Your Life and Business Teach Voice ABOUT THE GUEST Mark Lowman is a vocal coach and performer with over 15 years of international experience across the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. After a successful career in the travel industry leading events, sales, and marketing teams, he moved into coaching and personal development. His passion for music began as a hobby, later performing with choirs and bands, and he started vocal coaching in 2018 with Vocalize Choir, which has since grown into a thriving, successful community. After training with leading vocal coaches and completing the BAST 20-Hour Course, he transitioned to full-time teaching. In 2025, he founded Mark Lowman Vocals, now supporting over 50 students across Dorset in its first year. Website Instagram Facebook 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 controlled braking against passive recoil rather than pushing more air, and notes that trained singers don’t have bigger lungs—just better coordination. Drawing on sources including Miller, McCoy, Titze, Sundberg, and EMG research, she reframes “support” as task-specific breath management shaped by genre, physiology, and performance demands, and offers practical studio strategies such as audiation, mental rehearsal, the Underwood method, SPLAT, physiological sigh, sustained S/counting, straw phonation, gestural calibration, score marking, CO2 tolerance work, and respiratory hygiene. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 00:19 Why the term support bothers me 01:47 What the research says 04:23 Why breath is complex 08:42 The problem with support 14:55 Reframing as Breath Management 15:32 Studio tools and exercises 23:43 Bigger picture and hygiene 24:42 Key takeaways and language shift About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL LIST OF RESOURCES HERE 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 freedom and cultural awareness. This conversation challenges the idea of fixed vocal identities, inviting teachers and singers alike to embrace versatility, curiosity, and the vibrant diversity of global vocal styles. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 2:10 Who is Dr Luciano Simões? 6:42 Understanding Latin American music 21:13 What functional technique is included in cross-training? 27:57 What does a cross-training singing lesson look like? 37:41 Technical conflicts in cross-training About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Jeanie LoVetri Alexander Technique Feldenkrais Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.245 Technique Meets Artistry: Working with Contemporary Singers ABOUT THE GUEST Dr. Luciano Simões is a baritone, voice pedagogue, conductor, and researcher with over 30 years of teaching experience. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts from Michigan State University, alongside advanced degrees in choral conducting and musicology, and has undertaken postdoctoral research on Fado and musical theatre belting. He previously taught at institutions including the Latin American Integration University, where he developed a pioneering cross-training voice programme based on Latin American styles. Now based in Germany, he runs an independent voice studio and lectures internationally on cross-training and hybrid vocal technique. His work has been presented at major global conferences and published in leading voice journals. As a performer, he has sung across genres from opera to Brazilian jazz and maintains an active profile in both solo and choral music. SEE FULL BIO HERE Instagram: @lucianosimoes_dma 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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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 cultural world of 9–12 year olds—helping teachers feel a little more in touch (and maybe even a little bit cooler) in the process. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST 1:10 Defining ‘tween’ 2:24 Considerations for the tween girl 5:35 10+ songs for tween girls About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.223 10 Songs for Child Singers Vocal Health Education Teaching Singing to Children and Young Adults by Jenevora Williams Sing Up Foundation Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.181 The Role of Singing in Mental Wellness musicnotes.com Sarah Joyce War Child UK ABOUT THE GUEST Alexa runs a singing tuition practice in the South of England, and is a singing tutor at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools – Italia Conti, where she also regularly panels auditions and assessments. Alexa is the host of the BAST Training Singing Teachers Talk podcast, mentors for the BAST Training Level 5 qualification, and has presented on topics of Musical Theatre repertoire, authentic Musical Theatre performance, and imposter syndrome for Vocology in Practise and The Sing Space. SEE FULL BIO HERE Website Instagram: @AlexaTerryVocalCoaching 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated

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