Curious Vocalists

In part one of this two-part conversation, host Grace Hancock sits down with popular music voice specialist, researcher, and creativity coach Jess Baldwin. Together, they explore trauma-informed voice pedagogy, addressing common pain points such as creative burnout, perfectionism, decision fatigue, and the fear of judgment in the studio. Jess shares how establishing safety and choice forms the groundwork for genuine play, offering structured frameworks for vocalists, songwriters, and voice teachers navigating periods of life transition or creative stagnation. (Note: Part two will focus on building artist identity, accepting your sound, and applying self-compassion during creative despondency.)   Key Takeaways: Psychological Safety as the Foundation for Play: Play cannot occur without safety. Singers who struggle with perfectionism or people-pleasing often need time to build trust with themselves and their instructor before taking creative risks. Offering Choice & Agency: For students feeling anxious or reluctant to sing, providing small choices (such as choosing between two exercises) restores autonomy and lowers nervous system activation. Overcoming Decision Fatigue with Constraints: Unbounded creative options often lead to overwhelm. Setting specific boundaries—such as syllable counts, rhyme schemes, or specific prompts—lowers cognitive load and makes songwriting accessible. Managing Creative Flux & Nervous System Safety: Transitions (like moving or career shifts) destabilise our nervous system. During these periods, find small instances of comfort/delight. These shouldn't be forced into productivity; instead, simple, comforting non-musical routines help restore baseline safety. Structuring Popular Music Pedagogy: Unlike traditional classical training, popular music education requires self-reflection, learning by ear, and collaboration without a single authoritative director. Intention Over Perfection: Moving away from a rigid "right or wrong" mindset happens when artists clarify their underlying intention (e.g., the specific vibe or emotion they want to convey) and test choices against that goal. Chapters List 01:51 Establish Safety First Before Creativity Can Flow 12:26 Using Delight as a Compass to Creative Direction 17:44 How Structure Can Support Creativity 22:35 Setting Intentions Helps Make Artistic Choices 25:19 How to Choose When There's TOO MUCH Choice Resource Links Jess Baldwin’s Official Coaching Website: https://truecolorscreativity.com/ Jess Baldwin’s Official Website: https://www.jessbaldwin.com/ Jess's Previous 2024 Podcast Interview Mentioned (Valerie Day's Living A Vocal Life): https://livingavocallife.com/living-a-vocal-life-podcast/living-a-vocal-life-jess-baldwin — Empowering Singers Through Creativity Coaching with Jess Baldwin Ohio University School of Music: Discover the https://www.ohio.edu/fine-arts/music Discover the degree course at Ohio University, where Jess teaches voice and artist development. 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 [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

Celebrating Episode 50! Please note: Curious Vocalists is now on a biweekly schedule. See you in two weeks! In this episode of Curious Vocalists, host Grace Hancock speaks with Sergey Kuhne, the founder of Singing Carrots. They discuss how artificial intelligence and interactive software function within vocal education. Sergey explains the platform's dual approach: a free video conferencing and transcription tool designed to help voice teachers manage and track student progress, and an AI chat assistant equipped with a virtual piano that guides independent students through pitch and range exercises between lessons. The conversation explores the limitations of automated vocal assessment, particularly regarding timber, physical tension, and bodily posture, while emphasizing that technology acts as a supportive practice partner rather than a replacement for human pedagogy.   Chapters 00:47 How Singing Carrots Works for Singers and Teachers 06:45 The Role of AI as a Vocal Training Companion 08:03 Uses for Various Singing Levels 11:29 Copyright Limitations on Practise Content 13:13 Assessing Vocal Performance: Capabilities and Limitations 16:31 Caution Advised Not to Over-Trust 21:59 Watch Out For AI Hallucination 25:29 8000 Users Have Measurable Improvements 26:00 Pricing and Accessibility of AI Tools 27:53 Speculations on The Future of AI 32:25 How Singing Carrots Might Evolve In The Future   Key Takeaways Dual Platform Design: Singing Carrots offers a free video and transcription tool for teachers to monitor homework, alongside a paid AI assistant that acts as a virtual practice partner for students. The Gym Analogy: The platform functions similarly to a gym or a personal trainer's equipment, providing structured workouts and pitch tracking between lessons rather than replacing the instructor. Technical Limitations: While reliable for measuring pitch, tempo, and vibrato, current AI technology struggles to consistently and accurately assess complex vocal attributes like timber and physical register breaks without professional calibration. Beginner Confidence: The app provides a safe space for timid or tone-deaf beginners to practice privately, build self-esteem, and eventually transition to human teachers or singing communities. The AI Threat Debate: Sergey notes that while technology will continue to evolve slowly, teachers have time to adapt, integrate these tools into their workflows, and enhance student engagement. Find Out More About Singing Carrots: Platform Website: Singing Carrots https://www.facebook.com/singingcarrots https://www.instagram.com/singingcarrotsapp/ https://www.youtube.com/@singingcarrots   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 [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

Mastering diaphragmatic breathing can feel elusive, especially if you lack initial body awareness or default to upper-chest movement while singing. In this episode, Grace shares her top ten simple, tried and tested techniques she uses daily for her students, designed to help you connect with your core and build healthy breath support naturally. From everyday physical triggers like coughing, laughing, and smelling a rose to postural adjustments and gravity-assisted positions, this episode offers a diverse toolkit so you can find the specific method that clicks for your body.   Chapters 00:00 Importance of General Bodily Awareness Before Singing 02:03 1: Cough or Laugh to Feel Natural Movement 03:28 Quick Anatomical Description 04:35 2: Pretend You're Shouting For a Taxi 05:51 3: Hands Behind Your Head Posture Corrector 07:05 4: Breathing Exercise Lying Down 08:14 5: Ab Engagement - Brace For A Punch 09:55 6: Exercise for Breathing Low Down 'Into Your Hips' 12:03 7: Sniff the Rose 14:37 8: Squeeze All The Air Out, Then Relax 16:09 9: Let Gravity Help You 17:20 10: Check You're Doing it Right   Key Takeaways Before attempting diaphragmatic breathing exercises, building general bodily awareness through gentle stretching, swaying core twists, or ab crunches helps loosen up your midsection. Coughing, laughing, or being startled naturally engages your diaphragm and core muscles, providing the exact physical activation needed for singing. Using conversational vocal triggers like hailing a taxi or shouting a friend's name allows your support to kick in naturally without over-manipulating your muscles. Correct posture, such as imagining a string pulling you up from the crown of your head or lacing your fingers behind your skull, keeps your sternum raised and encourages downward breath movement. Practicing while lying down or on your hands and knees uses gravity to help your belly move correctly, making it easier to feel the breath expanding your lower core. Many of the muscles we use for singing are involuntary muscles which are often more easily manipulated by envisaging an environment or carrying out an act that inadvertently uses those muscles, like smelling a rose or the kind of slow, silent breathing we do when hiding during a game of hide and seek. Explosive consonant blows like angry s, f, and sh sounds check that your airflow is being driven entirely by your belly while your throat and chest stay completely open and relaxed.   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 [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician    

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, Claire Turner, classical singer, singing teacher, and research and evaluation advisor for the Singing for Health Network, shares how breath work can transform both vocal performance and well-being. Holding an MA in voice pedagogy, Claire explains how intentional breathing practices like coherent breathing, nasal breathing, and breath work techniques calm the nervous system, lower anxiety, and build performance confidence. Claire and Grace discuss how students in one to one voice lessons can often open up and share things in the voice studio space and how, as voice teachers it is important for us to know our boundaries and be clear on our role. They discuss the surprising areas of connection between singing and wellbeing and the untapped potential of breath work in every day life.   Key Takeaways Coherent breathing at five to six breaths per minute lowers stress levels, balances the nervous system, and improves cognitive clarity for singers and students. Breathing through the nose stimulates calming neural pathways, reducing performance anxiety and improving vocal ease. Integrating structured and informed breath work into lessons offers voice teachers a way to expand their services and support students dealing with anxiety. Vocal practitioners can boundary their role effectively while using evidence-based breath work to support student well-being without acting as a counselor. Singing teachers can diversify their career pathways through specialised training with organisations like the Singing for Health Network. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Singing For Health Network 03:05 Claire's Research on Breath work and Anxiety 05:35 Knowing the Boundaries As A Coach 06:57 How Singers' Natural Breath work is a Superpower 08:30 Breathing For Nervous System Balance 11:32 The Benefits of Nose Breathing 15:34 Singing and Health: Exploring Connections 16:38 Integrating Breath work Into Daily Life 19:11 The Science of Breath and Cognition 21:45 Singing for Health Training Opportunities 24:01 Enquire at Singing For Health Network 25:16 Encouragement to Train in Breath work Facilitation 25:48 Get in Touch With Claire   Contact Claire and the SHN: Singing for Health Network: https://www.singingforhealthnetwork.co.uk The Singing For Health Network offers some training and advice and can also signpost you to other organisations that have established training offerings, such as Sing to Beat Parkinsons https://www.singtobeat.co.uk/ and Singing for Lung Health, https://www.themusicalbreath.com/online-training/ . Compassionate Voice (Claire Turner): https://compassionatevoice.co.uk www.linkedin.com/in/claire-turner-compassionatevoice   www.instagram.com/compassionate_voice     www.facebook.com/compassionatevoiceandbreath   Resources Mentioned: Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor (Book) Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeown (app)   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 [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician  

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, host Grace Hancock connects with Florida-based performer Eddie Z, the talent behind The One-Man Singing Drummer Band. Together, they share an honest, encouraging conversation about the daily reality of running a niche solo music business completely independently. The conversation explores the physical realities of singing behind a drum kit and what it takes to stay grounded and optimistic while managing booking, marketing, load-ins, and performance entirely on your own, using artificial intelligence tools as an administrative assistant to save time. From navigating seasonal gig lulls to reconnecting with what your business would look like if you ‘couldn’t fail’, Grace and Eddie discuss career strategy, focusing on how independent performers can package a niche act for international travel on cruise ships and stay on track with their goals whilst keeping the love for it alive. Filled with humour and positive energy, this conversation offers a supportive space for working vocalists and solo acts who could do with a gratitude re-vamp for the self-employed musician lifestyle!   Chapters 00:36 Introduction to Eddie Z and His Unique Act 03:01 The Art of Singing and Drumming 05:48 Challenges of Being a Solo Performer 10:55 Hardest Parts of Wearing All the Hats 17:04 Don't Be Afraid to Think Big 19:15 Insights on Performing on Cruise Ships 22:18 Aligning with Purpose and Daily Routines 24:11 Balancing Business and Creativity 27:16 Embracing Technology and Uniqueness 28:55 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights   Key Takeaways Physical Adjustments for Stationary Performers: Switching from a standard boom stand to a wireless headset microphone (like the Shure SM35) allows singing drummers to maintain vocal posture, eliminate mic-distance fatigue, and increase physical movement on stage. Managing Multiple Roles: Running a solo performance business requires handling marketing, booking, driving, and roadie duties. Automating administrative tasks with modern technology tools helps prevent burnout. Strategic Venue Alignment: Instead of forcing a unique act into standard bar circuits, align your performance style with venues that value specialised entertainment, such as country clubs, luxury resorts, and corporate events. Repertoire Diversity: Maintaining an expansive setlist (500+ songs) provides the flexibility needed to pivot across different demographics, from country club crowds to rock venues. Packaging for Cruise Lines & Resorts: High-paying guest-entertainer contracts often require concise, themed 45-minute show sets. Packaging niche acts with clear, cohesive themes makes them far easier for cruise directors to book. Protecting Your Artistic Passion: Keep gigging fun by selecting music you genuinely love, ignoring unhelpful external opinions, and focusing on generating positive energy from the stage. Mentions & Resources Eddie Z Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EddieZDrumBand Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eddiezdrumband/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@EddieZ-TheOneManSingingDrummer Gear Mentioned: Shure SM35 Performance Headset Condenser Microphone   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 [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace is coached through the notoriously tricky belt technique of Hayley Williams in the Paramore song ‘All I Wanted’ by renowned vocal coach, singer, and educator Alexandra Pengler. Together they break down what makes Hayley’s chest-dominant mix voice so massive yet sustainable. The discussion and exercises centre on subtle vowel modification and vocal tract shaping, allowing Grace to thin out her vocal folds while maintaining a rich, authentic and speech-level chest resonance. Hear in real-time how the practical exercises, including tongue placement and mouth positioning, navigate Grace through the vocal passaggio without losing power, flipping into a softer register or sounding too manipulated.   Key Takeaways Master Vowel Modification: High belts rely on adjusting internal vowel shapes rather than pulling raw chest voice upward or widening the lips. Vowel shaping happens at the back of the mouth as well as with the lips. Nasality is often not needed on high notes and can even be an indicator that some over-compensation is happening that a correct vowel would fix. Avoid the Passaggio Trap: To transition smoothly through the passaggio (A to C range), the vocal folds must thin out gradually while maintaining steady subglottal pressure. Internal Space / Outer Shape: Creating space at the back of the mouth (a letterbox or rectangular shape) prevents the larynx from rising and eliminates unwanted nasality. Keep the Tongue Forward: Placing the tongue flat and forward near the bottom front teeth prevents tongue root tension and maintains a natural, speech-level tone. Root the Base Notes: A solid chest voice foundation provides the necessary balance for high-register belting. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alexandra Pengler 01:51 Understanding Chest Dominant Mix and Vowel Modification 03:22 Common Mistakes in Belting Techniques 07:11 Grace's First Attempt 07:32 Exercises For A More Speech-Like, Rock Sound 17:05 Finding The Right Vowel & Tongue Position 19:42 How the Mouth Shape Alters the Vocal Register 25:23 Grace's Final Attempt - Much Better! 25:59 Sum Up and Takeaways 30:05 General Rules for Modifying the Vowels 31:19 Get In Touch With Alexandra   Mentioned Resources & Links Alexandra Pengler Official Website: https://alexandrapengler.com Alexandra Pengler Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandra.pengler.vocals/?hl=en Institute for Vocal Advancement (IVA): Vocal education organisation referenced in the discussion. BIMM University Hamburg: Music higher education institution Alexandra previously lectured at. Alexandra is Vocal Technique Lecturer at Hamburg University for Music and Theatre: https://www.hamburg.com/residents/study/hfmt-19310   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 [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace sits down with vocalist and self-described “neuro-spicy, sensitive bean” Emily Parker (Emily Jean) who’s varied skills and interests in nature art and animals informs the incredibly intuitive and empathetic perspective on emotion and the voice. Packed with easy banter, laughs and spontaneous growth noises, the pair explore the direct link between a singer's emotional state and their physical voice. Emily shares her personal journey from experiencing extreme physical performance anxiety to discovering simple grounding habits that bring ease back into her performances. The conversation delves into using singing as a tool for emotional processing rather than a high-stakes performance for judgment, dismantling the culture of vocal perfectionism, and learning to celebrate other singers' talents without falling into the trap of self-comparison. From the healing power of songwriting to spontaneous Pokemon references, this chat is an uplifting reminder that authenticity will always trump perfection.   Key Takeaways The Physical Mind-Voice Link: Mental fatigue, anxiety, and unaddressed emotional stress frequently show up as physical tension in the body, making singing feel constrained or heavy. Simple Grounding Techniques: Grounding habits like standing barefoot on natural ground (grass or soil), running cold water over the face, or using the physiological sigh help send safety signals to the nervous system before going on stage. Singing as Emotional Processing: Approaching songs as a safe avenue to process grief, joy, and raw emotion creates a cathartic experience for both the performer and the listener. Ditching Perfectionism: Embracing small performance mistakes and sharing imperfect moments creates authenticity and reduces the societal pressure of "all-or-nothing" performance standards. Overcoming Comparison: Recognising that every voice has an individual, inherent value prevents singers from tying their self-worth strictly to technical vocal prowess or competitive hierarchies. Inherent Worth Over Technical Ability: Moving away from analysing every vocal riff or belt allows singers to lean into their unique, natural sound and build real connection with an audience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to How Emotions Influence Singing 08:05 Grounding Techniques for the Anxious Performer 13:29 Emotions Stored in Funny Places 16:28 Using Singing As Emotional Processing 26:36 Celebrating Individuality In Voices 27:45 Celebrating Others' Voices Without Comparison 30:58 Not Placing Your Worth on Your Singing 32:53 Fight The Perfectionist Culture! 34:31 Being Yourself Trumps Being 'The Best'   Resources and Mentions Emily’s Vocal Work: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilyjeanvocalist Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyjeanvocalist/   Emily’s Make up Artistry: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EJGArtistry/ Instagram:@EJGArtistry   Curious Vocalists Episode No.40 “Acceptance is Not Defeat” https://gracehancockmusic.podbean.com/e/40-acceptance-is-not-defeat-align-with-your-path-to-success/ Curious Vocalists Episode with Emma G No.24 “Songwriting As Healing” https://gracehancockmusic.podbean.com/e/24-songwriting-as-healing-turning-your-past-into-a-powerful-future-with-emma-g/ Emma G's Book on Mental Health and Songwriting: Mental Health Sounds Like This https://emmagmusic.bandcamp.com/merch/mental-health-sounds-like-this-book   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 [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, host Grace Hancock sits down with European voice teacher, author, and SingWell founder, Linor Oren to explore the world of vocal coaching from behind the piano. Designed for singing teachers, vocal coaches, and those looking to branch out into the industry, this conversation is an honest and insightful look into the different approaches to teaching and ways to make it sustainable and fulfilling for student and teacher. They strip away the pressure of quick-fix culture and discuss managing expectations, protecting teacher energy against burnout, and using a flexible, curious and open approach which doesn’t demand the teacher to have all the answers straight away. Linor shares practical approaches from her new book, Sing Anyway, which shows how to guide students past performance anxiety, a common issue in students of all levels and they discuss ways to help students develop a healthy, authentic relationship to music through curiosity, playfulness and long-term vocal progress.   Key Takeaways Abandon the "Miracle Worker" Pressure: A great vocal coach does not need to have all the answers instantly. Framing lessons around trying multiple solutions takes the weight off the teacher while keeping the student empowered. Streamline Lesson Preparation: Avoid spending hours planning every single minute. Grouping exercises by functional category (e.g., jaw release, tongue tension, core engagement) allows you to improvise effectively based on what you hear in real time. Holistic Bodywork First: Prioritise whole-body preparation— release upper-body strain before diving into vocal drills. Don’t be afraid to deploy the ‘I’m not a therapist, but…’ approach to psychological issues when constant scales and drills alone don’t help the issue. Isolate Skills with Easy Songs: When working on vocal technique, work on one at a time. Then apply new mechanics to simple songs first. Reserve complex, challenging repertoire for fun, performance-focused sing-throughs. Transform "Dirty Fuel" into Curiosity: Reframe the student's need for external validation or perfection. Praise process, play, and individual expression over flawless execution to build long-term confidence. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Linor Oren 02:50 Transitioning from Performer to Teacher 05:29 The Pressure To Be a Know-It-All 07:22 Managing Student Expectations and Energy 09:10 Protecting Yourself from Teacher Burnout 10:59 Holistic Approaches in Vocal Teaching 13:11 Body Work and Its Importance in Singing 16:08 Lesson Prep Vs No Lesson Prep 16:44 Planning Lessons: To Plan or Not to Plan? 18:39 Finding Flexibility in Teaching Methods 21:08 Common Anxieties Among Vocal Coaches 22:29 Focusing on One Thing at a Time 25:04 Easy Songs First for Bedding in Technique 26:18 Nurturing Healthy Relationships With Music 30:47 Expectations and the Pressure to Perform 32:18 Promoting Individuality and Authentic Expression 33:50 Creating a Playful Learning Environment 39:55 Introducing 'Sing Anyway' - A Guide to Finding Your Voice   Resources & Links Mentioned Linor Oren's Official Website & Studio: https://singwell.eu/ Book by Linor Oren: Sing Anyway: https://singwell.eu/book/ Linor’s Guest Appearance Mentioned: Singing Teachers Talk Podcast by BAST Training: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-270-how-to-help-singers-overcome-fear-and-build/id1477544802?i=1000778790022 Curious Vocalists Episode mentioned on Tori Kelly’s Melisma Mastery: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ni8mm-1b3e012 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 [email protected] http://www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

Many singers dream of accompanying themselves on piano but back away due to self-doubt, technical overwhelm, or the fear of sounding childish. This episode tackles the biggest obstacles holding vocalists back from sitting at the keys. By breaking down complex playing into simple, manageable pieces, lower-stakes practice techniques, and essential 4-chord songs, this episode shows how any singer can build the skills and mindset needed to play piano while singing. Download the Free PDF Guide Here!: The 12 Major Keys on Piano  https://gracehancockmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/The-12-Major-Keys-on-Piano.pdf Key Takeaways Most popular songs rely on just four basic chords, meaning you do not need advanced music theory to sound great. The most impressive musical performances often rely more heavily on expression and conviction, rather than technical prowess. Lower your expectations during practice; give yourself permission to spend 20 minutes focusing on just one single element at a time. To avoid sounding basic, focus on simple chord inversions and gentle pedal work rather than complex finger work. Overcome singing and playing coordination issues by separating rhythm exercises from your voice before combining them. Being an adult beginner is a strength: leave your ego at the door, lower the stakes, and embrace curiosity over perfection. Trust your ears when practicing to judge if a chord progression sounds right and feels physically efficient. Chapters 00:36 Introduction to Self-Accompaniment 01:04 Overcoming Technical Myths 05:57 Your Starting Point - 4-Chord Song Suggestions 09:33 Tips to Sound More Professional Straight Off the Bat 14:01 Building Momentum and Avoiding Frustration 16:04 Hand and Voice Co-ordination Exercises 21:40 Embracing the Beginner's Mindset 22:10 There Is No Shame In Being A Beginner 23:58 There Is No Chance of 'Failure' 25:00 The Role of Self-Belief and Incentive 25:32 Self Belief Can Be Built Through Encouragement & Incentive 28:46 How to Know If You're Practising Right   Resources & Mentions   Free PDF Guide: The 12 Major Keys on Piano (for all your chords at your fingertips!) - https://gracehancockmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/The-12-Major-Keys-on-Piano.pdf   YouTube Tutorial: Easy Piano Chord Inversions - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xuuq8DtUy_g   Ultimate Guitar website for song chords - https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/ Suggested 4-chord song to start you off in the key of C: (all use C G Am & F, but not necessarily in that order) Female Suggestions in C: Price Tag (Jessie J), A Thousand Years (Christina Perri), She Will Be Loved (Maroon 5), Fast Car (Tracy Chapman), Shotgun (George Ezra). Male Song Suggestions in C: Demons (Imagine Dragons), With Or Without You (U2), Someone You Loved (Lewis Capaldi), Otherside (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Zombie (The Cranberries).   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 [email protected] https://www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic https://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

Tori Kelly is renowned for intricate, agile vocal runs that move with hummingbird-like speed and agility. In this episode of Curious Vocalists, host Grace Hancock breaks down the foundational elements behind these irresistible melismas and shares the training exercises used to emulate her style. Drawing from R&B influences like Alicia Keys and Justin Timberlake, the episode covers how light vocal coordination, balanced air pressure, and strong diaphragmatic support create a nimble foundation. Listeners will learn the mechanics of upward agility, the laryngeal bounce for crystalline articulation, pentatonic scale mastery, and diaphragm-driven staccato exercises to transform heavy, forced runs into weightless, percussive vocal lines.   Key Takeaways Light Vocal Coordination: Singing with less vocal weight allows for faster, more nimble movement across notes while encouraging a quick vibrato that adds instant texture to longer tones. Air Pressure Balance: Straw exercises help maintain balanced breath pressure across your entire range, letting you travel through your vocal break with total volume control. Upward Agility: Developing fast upward scales builds the signature show-off sound characteristic of modern R&B melismas. The Laryngeal Bounce: Fast runs rely on subtle micro-pulses from the larynx rather than breath pushes, creating distinct, percussive notes without slurring. Pentatonic Scale Mastery: Decoupling complex runs by slowing them down reveals the exact pentatonic patterns needed to execute fast melismas accurately. Diaphragm-Driven Staccato: Practicing isolated diaphragm engagement builds clean, rhythmic micro-attacks that align naturally with the beat. Chapters 00:35 Exploring Vocal Agility and Influences 03:04 Signature Sounds and Personal Experiences 04:40 Key Elements of Tori Kelly's Vocal Technique 07:19 Exercises for Balanced Air Pressure When Singing 11:57 The Mix Voice Belting Illusion 18:35 The UPWARDS Agility 19:54 Laryngeal Bounce and Articulation 21:42 Mastering the Pentatonic Scale 23:23 Diaphragmatic Support   Resources Mentioned Brett Manning Singing Success Mastering Mix singingsuccess.com Featured Artists and Track References: Tori Kelly - Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing (Stevie Wonder Cover) Tori Kelly - Pretty Young Thing (Michael Jackson Cover) Tori Kelly - God Must Really Love Me (Album and Title Track) Alicia Keys - Fallin' and How Come You Don't Call Me (from Songs in A Minor) Justin Timberlake - Cry Me A River (From the Justified Album)   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 [email protected] www.gracehancockmusic.com instagram.com/gracehancockmusic facebook.com/gracehancockmusician