Curious Vocalists

In this conversation, Dan Jarvis, a musical director and vocal expert, discusses the intricacies of vocal tone, the anatomy of the voice, and various singing techniques to manipulate tone to suit the genre of music being sung. He discusses the differences between head voice and falsetto, nasal tonality and twang, the role of vowels and consonants in achieving a desired tone, and the techniques for developing a mix voice and belt. The discussion also touches on the essence of good singing, highlighting the need for emotional connection and storytelling in performance.
 
Takeaways
There's a lot you can change and manipulate in your vocal tone.
Vocal folds vibrate to create sound, and their thickness affects pitch.
Head voice and falsetto are different, with varying anatomical positions.
Vowels alterations are used in shaping vocal tone and quality.
You don’t need more air to sing loud/high
Nasality and Twang both create bright tone and are often confused for one another
Vibrato often emerges as a byproduct of good vocal technique.
A good singer connects truthfully with the material they perform.
Technique work should complement performance, not overshadow it.
 
Chapters
00:00 Exploring Vocal Tone and Choices
02:12 Understanding Head Voice and Vocal Folds
04:56 Navigating Vocal Techniques: Chest Voice vs. Head Voice
07:44 Falsetto vs. Head Voice: Anatomical Differences
10:38 The Role of Vowels in Vocal Tone
16:19 Twang vs. Nasality in Singing
19:04 Impressions and Natural Singing
21:53 Ways to Use and Improve Breath Control
26:28 Good Posture Makes a Big Difference!
29:48 Vibrato: Byproduct of Good Technique
34:18 What Makes A Good Singer?
37:02 Wrap Up and Where to Find Dan's Work
 
Mentions/ resources:
Dan’s Website: https://www.danieljarvismusic.com/
Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danjarvis7
Video showing the structure of the Cricoid and Thyroid cartilages: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QhVoaVUGmM 
Video of the vocal structures (Aryepiglottic Sphincter) used in Twang https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPTBdcYiMy4. 
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
 
#vocaltone #singingtechniques #headvoice #falsetto #mixvoice #belt #vocalanatomy #musicaltheatre #vocalexercises #vocalscience

In this episode, Grace delves into the intricacies of vowel alterations in singing, explaining their importance in achieving better pitch, resonance, and vocal health. She goes through the 12 vowels in the English dialect, practical ways to use them and how they resonate in different areas of the mouth. The conversation also includes an analysis of Whitney Houston’s vowel manipulation, how she gravitates each vowel towards the ‘neutral vowels’ for more powerful and fluid singing.
 
Takeaways
Vowels are your steering wheel for tone and placement.
The right vowel alterations can help relieve vocal strain and improve resonance
Avoid dipthongs - sing into the widest part of every vowel
Vowels are formed more by the tongue and less by the face and mouth than you think
Different pitches resonate better with specific vowels.
Closed vowels need to open and wide vowels need to round off as you go higher.
Whitney Houston’s vowels keep the airflow as consistent as possible
 
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Vowel Sounds in Singing
00:43 Two Big Adjustments You Can Make Right Now
07:11 The 12 Vowels and Where They Resonate
13:26 Analysing Whitney Houston's Vowels
19:19 Vowel Modification Exercises and Experiments
23:30 Outro
 
Mentions/ Resources:
The diagram of vowels within the mouth from Heart of Florida Chorus (now singwithhof.com) -
https://www.heartoffloridachorus.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Craft.Singing-Better-Vowels.pdf
 
The 12 vowel sounds in the English dialect:
‘Ee’ as in ‘Pete’
‘Ih’ as in ‘Jim’
‘Ay’ as in ‘Dave’
‘Eh’ as in ‘Ted’
‘Aah’ as in ‘Dan’
Ah’ as in ‘Father’
‘Uh’ as in ‘Bud’
‘Er’ as in ‘Word’
‘Aww’ as in ‘ Aww look at that puppy’
‘Oh’ as in ‘Joe’
‘Ouhh’ as in ‘Woody’
‘Oo’ as in ‘Shoe’
 
Tricia Leines - Youtube Series ‘Perfect Vowels’ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLR0uR6OzjcfZFlFUjLgBGtofu8lidaPUu
 
Vowel Modification Cheat Sheet: - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1N73mYP-qQKbmHRguPAx4rZGDJYj48CPq/view?usp=sharing
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
 
#singing #vowels #vocaltechnique #resonance #pitch #tension #WhitneyHouston #vocalexercises #singingtips #vocalrange

In this episode of the Curious Vocalists podcast, Grace Hancock shares her journey to becoming a cruise ship musician, offering valuable insights and tips for aspiring performers. She discusses the challenges of preparing for the role, including learning a vast repertoire of songs, building a showreel, and networking with agents. Grace also addresses the health challenges musicians face on board, emphasising the importance of vocal care and managing seasickness. Throughout the conversation, she encourages listeners to embrace their passion for music and take the leap into the world of cruise ship performance.
 
Takeaways
You don't need to be a master instrumentalist to succeed.
You need at least 150-200 songs in your repertoire to start as a solo musician on ships
You don’t have to read music to be a solo cruise ship musician
Store all your arrangements of songs as videos on a Google Drive
With the right incentive, anything is possible
Vitamin C and other health boosting products are crucial for performers on ships.
It’s not the motion that creates seasickness but your resistance to the movement
Invest in good equipment for practicing in your cabin.
Managing your voice and avoiding over-talking is key to longevity.
Confidence grows with experience; don't wait to feel ready.
 
Chapters
00:00 The Allure of Cruise Ship Musicianship
01:29 The Journey to Getting Hired
03:22 Building Your Repertoire by Ear, from Scratch
07:07 Navigating Challenges on Board
10:36 Tech and Packing Essentials
16:27 Dealing with Seasickness
18:00 Vocal Longevity Tips
20:09 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Taking Action
21:40 Outro
 
Resources/Mentions:
The relatively lightweight keyboard with weighted keys I first took onboard with me in my cabin: Casio CDP-S110 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og2OyW6G454
 
My fold up Keyboard: OYAYO 88 key, semi-weighted, foldable keyboard -
https://shorturl.at/Q8FbN
 
Gator TSA 88 Hard Flight case that fitted the Casio keyboard: https://shorturl.at/Hojgl
 
Agents:
Hatch Box Talent
Gary Parkes Music
Suoni Music Management
Sonic Artistes
East West Entertainment
Warshaw Entertainment
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
 
Keywords
#cruiseshipmusician #musiccareer #performancetips #vocalhealth #showreel #networking #musicpreparation #travel #musicianlifestyle

Stephanie Webber shares her experience as a full-time vocalist and how she has developed such versatility and longevity in her voice. Hear about her time as a contestant on The Voice, being so flustered that she made the judges laugh, performing in front of Tom Jones, Rita Ora, Will.I.Am and Ricky Wilson and being mentored by Sir Tom. She discusses her vocal techniques, the importance of ongoing training, and the challenges of performing various genres. Stephanie also reflects on her growth as an artist and her aspirations for the future.
 
Takeaways
Stephanie Webber is a versatile vocalist with a rich background in various music genres.
It’s important to do ongoing vocal training and lessons even as a professional.
You need less air than you think to sing. Especially high and loud.
The Estill technique teaches how to sing with less air.
Understanding vocal placement is crucial for achieving different singing styles.
Warm-up routines are essential for maintaining vocal health and performance quality.
Performing in front of an audience requires constant self-checking and awareness of technique.
Stephanie's journey reflects the importance of resilience and adaptability in a singing career.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Stephanie Webber
01:26 Vocal Health and Versatility
04:02 The Importance of Placement and Air Pressure
13:08 Watching Yourself Back Can Be Painful!
15:33 Stephanie’s Experience on ‘The Voice’
22:13 Stephanie’s Pre-Gig Exercises
30:09 Future Aspirations
31:59 Outro
 
Resources
Estill Technique - https://estillvoice.com/
Tim Richards - https://www.howthevoiceworks.co.uk/tim-richards
Ken Tamplin - https://kentamplinvocalacademy.com/
Madeleine Harvey - https://www.youtube.com/@MadeleineHarveyVoice
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
 
#StephanieWebber #SirTomJones #RitaOra #Will.I.Am #RickyWilson #vocaltechniques #TheVoice #BBCradioWales #singing #cruiseshipperformer #warmuproutines #vocaltraining #performance  #music industry #estill
 

In this conversation, Grace Hancock shares her insights on overcoming the negative voice in our heads, particularly in the context of performance. She discusses the importance of recognising this inner critic, practical strategies to combat it, and the significance of embracing one's unique voice. Grace emphasises the paradox of performance, where caring less can lead to better outcomes, and highlights the inevitability of change and growth in both life and art.
 
Takeaways
Everyone has a negative voice in their head.
Regular diary entries can help clear mental clutter.
Connecting with the audience can alleviate performance anxiety.
Imagine your biggest supporter in the crowd.
Your unique ‘package’ as a performer is your strength.
Care less, do better.
Watching funny dog reels before performing can be a game-changer
Paradox, Humour and Change are the only constants in life and art.
Embrace the wisdom that comes with age and experience.
 
Chapters
00:00 Confronting the Inner Critic
02:16 Write out What's In Your Head
03:16 Seek Connection
05:50 See Yourself Through the Eyes of Your Best Friend
06:46 Embracing Your Unique Identity
09:49 The Power of Carefree Performance
11:35 The Role of Humour and Change in Performance
16:46 Outro Like & Subscribe
 
Resources/ Mentions
Books:
Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway - Susan Jeffers - https://mybook.to/7k7d 
The Artist’s Way - Julia Cameron - https://mybook.to/o956 
The Way of the Peaceful Warrior - Dan Millman - https://mybook.to/GzvX7H 
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
#innercritic #selfdoubt #performanceanxiety #uniquevoice #personalgrowth #negativity #selfacceptance #NegativeVoice #innervoice #Audienceengagement #vocalist #stageperformer 

Charismatic function band frontman, Adam Moran (aka Adam in the Hat), shares his journey as a full-time musician, discussing the challenges and rewards of gigging, the importance of building a personal brand, and the balance between performing cover songs and creating original music. With his infectious, comedic energy, Adam emphasises the importance of letting go of worries and ego to grow as a performer and maintain healthy creative relationships. Full of funny stories and anecdotes, hear about the weirdest gig he's ever done, how you can totally misread a crowd and laugh along with him as he shamelessly recounts his most embarrassing moment on stage involving a dodgy stomach and a high note...
 
Key Takeaways
Full-time musicianship can be eased into safely and is not always a ‘risk takers’ game
He averages between 130 and 150 gigs a year.
Building a personal brand is essential for success and longevity in the music industry.
How you perceive audience reactions can be very wrong.
Mindset plays a crucial role in performance quality and creative fulfilment
Proactive collaboration and live performance is the best form of marketing
Finding fulfilment in music often requires balancing cover songs with original work.
It's just one gig; don't overthink it.
Feeling the least accomplished in your band is good. It’s the best way to grow.
Leaving a band can be done gracefully.
The worst moments on stage make the funniest stories.
 
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of a Full-Time Musician
02:22 Designing a Full-Time Musician Life
05:51 Building a Personal Brand
08:40 Overnight Success
11:05 How to be in Many Places at Once
13:30 Fulfilment and Creativity Through Gigging
19:47 Don't Believe Everything You Think
26:29 The Mindset for Musical Success
31:23 How to Get Started on Your Musical Journey
34:46 The Best Advice He's Had for Healthy Musical Relations
37:21 The Ego and the Creative Space
41:20 Navigating Today's Live Music Industry
46:27 What Makes a Good Singer?
48:35 Quickfire Questions
49:19 Uptown Funky Smell: Adam's Most Explosive Performance
52:22 Where to Hear Adam Sing
53:57 Outro
 
Resources & Mentions
Artigianos Espresso and Wine Bar, London & Exeter - https://artigiano.uk.com/
Richard James- https://richardjamesofficial.com/#home
Adam in the Hat’s Guest List (Feat. Joss Stone) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5mwuINlj3Y
Marvin Moneuke - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/marvin-muoneke/904719956
Bill Ding & The Sky Scrapers - https://www.bdsmusic.uk/
The Drat Pack - https://thedratpack.co.uk/
Rob Maxwell - https://www.robmaxwell.co.uk/
Leigh Coleman - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xpvY-dee6Q
Club Brothers Spotify - Heart You Hold - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16mS3JdZpJI
 
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician

Grace chats to fellow Piano Vocalist, Gabe Silva, whilst they work onboard a Luxury Yacht as musicians. They talk about their struggles and breakthroughs on board, including how a late night somehow made Gabe sing ‘like an angel’, how they both had to embrace regular failures to get where they are, and how making art of any kind can cleanse your mind, - (apologies to those listening at meal times when you hear Grace’s analogy). The conversation is centred around the importance of play, imperfect action, embracing vulnerability as artists and the joy of artistic expression.
 
Takeaways
You shouldn’t wait until you feel ‘ready’ to put yourself out there as a musician.
We must learn to get comfortable with failure in order to succeed.
Community and networking are crucial for success in the music industry.
Emotional fatigue has a big impact vocal performance.
Making art of any kind is a cleanser of the mind and encourages creative thinking
Artistic expression should be playful and enjoyable.
The perception of art varies among audiences, making it important to share one's work.
 
Valuable Resources / Mentions:
Book - The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron
Gabe’s Youtube: @itsyoboygabe6557
Gabe’s Instagram: @itsgabesilva
‘Insomnia’ on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/31yOpsrbghZQtn2aOCzyoC?si=9537b20693ff4961
Gabe Performing on The Voice Portugal:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9hMpNsQbx8
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Musical Journey
03:39 The Importance of Community in Music
06:17 Struggles of a Gigging Musician
09:26 Vocal Techniques and Range Development
12:25 The Role of Performance Experience
15:16 Learning to Accompany Ourselves on Piano
18:14 Embracing Vulnerability in Creativity
21:18 The Process of Writing and Sharing Music
24:05 Finding Joy in Artistic Expression
30:35 Quickfire Questions and Wrap-Up
33:19 Outro
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
 
#music, #musician, #vocaltechniques, #creativity, #performance, #failtosucceed, #songwriting, #artistic #expression, #vulnerability, #vocalrange, #artistmindset #imperfectaction 

In this episode of the Curious Vocalists podcast, Grace Hancock shares her insights on how to enhance the chat between songs during live performances. Drawing from her experiences performing on ships, she emphasises the importance of speaking with conviction, connecting with the audience on a personal level, avoiding clichés, and finding a balance between improvisation and preparation. Grace encourages performers to embrace their individuality and enjoy the experience of engaging with their audience.
 
Takeaways
Say it with conviction, regardless of the content.
Speak louder and slower to ensure clarity.
Engage with the audience as individuals.
Use eye contact to build trust and connection.
Avoid clichés to keep the performance fresh.
Be aware of your surroundings for inspiration.
Balance chat and music to maintain momentum.
Improvisation can lead to more genuine interactions.
Trust your instincts and read the room.
Enjoy the performance and be your own cheerleader.
 
Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:22 Speaking with Conviction: The Power of Tone and Clarity
02:34 Personal Touch: Making Connections with Individual Audience Members
04:45 Avoiding Clichés: Cultivating more Authentic Chat
08:13 Pacing Your chat in the Set List
10:41 Improvisation vs. Rehearsal: Finding Your Natural Flow
12:02 Mindset Matters: Building Confidence on Stage
13:15 Outro
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
 
#singer #liveperformance #audienceconnection #stagepresence #banter #confidence #music livemusic #engagement #publicspeaking #improvisation

Grace interviews Avionce Hoyles, a talented musical theatre and TV performer known for his tribute to Tina Turner named ‘Dear Tina’ and his role in the Award winning Titanique the Musical in NYC. As well as his appearances in FBI Most wanted on NBC and Orange is the new Black on Netflix… They discuss the essence of Tina's music, how she reinvented herself as an artist at the age of of 50, and the soulful, gospel vocal techniques that Avionce employs. Grace even has a (rather pathetic) go at imitating it! Throughout, Avionce emphasises the importance of alignment, personal rituals, and the journey of finding one's path in the music industry. 
 
Takeaways
The Southern Black Church is a foundational influence on both Avionce and Tina's singing styles.
The raw, raspy gospel tone is made from excess air and an open throat - not restriction.
The most common mental blocks for singers is breathing and placement.
High notes are not reached for but opened up to.
Vowel sounds play a significant role in singing and should be emphasised.
Daily rituals and personal time are vital for maintaining mental health in the arts.
What is meant for you will not pass you by; trust the journey.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:38 The Essence of Tina Turner and Vocal Technique
06:26 The Journey of Vocal Development
09:17 Vocal Exercises for Longevity
12:20 Understanding Vocal Tone and Resonance
18:27 Breath Control and Diaphragm Usage
21:32 Grace’s Comical Attempt at Gospel Grit
22:57 Most Common Mental Blocks in Singing
28:12 Creating a Tribute Show for Tina Turner
30:08 The Legacy of Tina Turner
32:07 Finding Your Artistic Path
33:59 The Importance of Intuition in Music
36:18 Aligning with Your Purpose
40:21 Self-Care in the Arts
46:00 The Essence of a Good Singer
50:33 Quickfire Questions
 
Mentions:
Tina Turner, Brandy, Fantasia Barrino, Ryan Shaw
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
 
#TinaTurner #Singing #Alignment #musicindustry #artistlife #gospel #gospelgrit #vocalcoach 

In this conversation, Grace discusses the critical role of mindset in improving singing skills. She emphasises the importance of embracing a beginner's mindset, finding joy in the learning process, and rewarding hard work over natural ability. Grace also highlights the significance of storytelling in music and encourages singers to shift their perspective from obligation to opportunity in their practice.
 
Takeaways
Mindset is crucial for improving singing skills.
Embrace being a beginner, regardless of age or experience.
Focus on the joy of learning rather than pressure to perform.
Consistency and small daily habits lead to significant improvement.
Reward hard work instead of just natural talent.
Artists should prioritise storytelling over showcasing their vocal abilities.
Shift your mindset from 'have to practice' to 'get to practice.'
Creating sound is a gift that should be enjoyed.
Tap into the joy and playfulness of singing, just like a child.
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:15 Learn to be Comfortable as a Beginner
04:47 Don't Let Your Ambition Immobilise You
07:57 Small Habits Make BIG changes
10:00 Rewarding Hard Work Over Natural Ability
13:28 Glorify the Song, Not Your Voice
17:39 The Joy of Singing: A Mindset Shift
19:05 Outro Like & Subscribe.mp3
 
Resources
Book - Atomic Habits by James Clear
Book - Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D
Brett Manning’s Singing Success - https://singingsuccess.com/
 
About the Host
Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.
 
Contact Method
gracehancockmusic@gmail.com
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
 
#singing #mindset #beginner #joy #consistency #hardwork #storytelling #practice #growthmindset #vocal training