Alexa Terry unwraps ten fresh, fun, and fabulously festive Christmas songs to help singing teachers bring new sparkle into their studios, offering a mix of musical theatre treasures, modern pop tunes, heartfelt ballads, and powerful rock renditions that give both students and teachers a welcome break from the usual overplayed holiday hits. With vocal range guidance, technical teaching opportunities, and stylistic notes for each song this episode provides a studio-ready repertoire list designe...
This week, Alexa chats with the brilliant Ian Howell to explore how we really hear the singers we work with. From psychoacoustics and functional listening to timbre, bias and intention, Ian unpacks the hidden processes behind vocal perception—and how understanding them can transform the way we teach. A deep, fascinating conversation for any singing teacher wanting sharper ears and smarter tools. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:53 What is psychoacoustics? 5:28 How is sound perceived by ...
In this episode, Becky Morton, Principal of Further Education at ACM and Alexa explore what the FE academic route can offer young singers stepping into today’s music industry. Becky shares curriculum structure with project-based training, and how this helps students to build both industry awareness and artist identity. The pair dig into why early professional habits matter, how the diploma pathway compares to traditional A-levels, and what young performers gain from learning to work with prod...
In this episode, Alexa shares 10 brilliant songs that sit in the A4–D5 low-belt zone for female singers — a range full of character, energy, and storytelling potential. From Standard Broadway favourites, 90s pop-rock anthems and modern hits this episode is packed with fresh repertoire ideas, stylistic insight, and creative inspiration for singers and teachers alike. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST 0:38 Why might these songs be helpful? 2:07 10 ‘low belt’ songs for female sin...
What if the secret to better singing practice isn’t doing more, but understanding why we avoid it in the first place? Voice educator Tessa Smith Whicker joins Alexa to explore how her master’s research reshaped her view of practice — from battling guilt and distraction to embracing curiosity and compassion. Discover how to get singers excited about their own practice, how teachers can reframe “you need to practice” into empowering questions, and why small, playful tasks can make all the...
In this insightful episode, Alexa chats with Sami Wong, a speech and language pathologist who helps clients navigate communication challenges such as aphasia. Sami shares her personal journey into speech therapy, inspired by her late father’s recovery from a stroke, and explains what aphasia really is, and the role music and singing can play in therapy. We also dive into Sami’s creative side hustle—her successful Etsy shop where she sells educational anatomy prints for SLPs and voice professi...
Ever wondered how world-class singers keep their voices strong night after night on global tours? In this episode, we go behind the curtain with Mindy Pack — elite vocal coach to stars like Miley Cyrus, Lil Nas X, Sabrina Carpenter, and Justin Timberlake — to explore the science, strategy, and stamina behind life on the road. Discover how artists build vocal endurance, plus the secrets behind Mindy’s legendary 'Vocal 911 Kit' From vocal warm-ups and bodywork to tour prep and mental resilience...
Who decides what’s in when it comes to singing styles — how do voice teachers keep up? In this fun and insightful episode, Alexa chats with April Young about how changing trends in pop, musical theatre, and CCM are reshaping vocal training. From falsetto and belt to the science of registers and resonance, we explore how singers can stay healthy, expressive, and ahead of the curve. Perfect for voice teachers, performers, and anyone curious about the ever-evolving art of singing. WHAT’S IN THIS...
Drama school auditions can feel like a mix of excitement, nerves and big dreams. In this episode, Alexa shares her top strategies for surviving and thriving in drama school auditions. From preparation to presence, discover how to bring your best self into the room and make the most of every opportunity. Whether you’re auditioning for the first time or guiding others through the process, this episode will leave you feeling ready to go. About the presenter, click HERE ...
In this episode of the Singing Teachers Talk Podcast, vocal coach and business mentor Zoe Stibi shares how she turned a career crisis into thriving studios, a booming YouTube channel, and multiple income streams. From raising your rates with confidence to building an online presence that attracts students worldwide, Zoe breaks down practical strategies to help you earn more while working less. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:14 What would you if you won the lottery? 3:44 Turning...
As singing teachers, we might often wonder: are my students actually having fun? Fun doesn’t have to mean over-the-top excitement—it’s about creating moments of joy, curiosity, and connection. In this episode, Alexa shares 10 practical ways to make singing lessons more enjoyable for students of all ages. From playful games and tongue twisters to using props, humour, and mindful moments, these ideas keep lessons fresh and engaging. Discover how to balance progress with play, while building a s...
What does it really take to reinvent yourself as a coach or creative? In this episode, we welcome back Gemma Sugrue; singer, entrepreneur, and business mentor to explore how she’s turned her own career pivots into powerful lessons for others. From wedding singer to studio owner, online educator to branding coach, Gemma has never been afraid to follow her curiosity and shed what no longer feels aligned. She shares how we can tune into our energy, recognise when it’s time for change, and build ...
In this episode of The Singing Teachers Talk Podcast, Alexa chats with Rachael Drury about practical ways voice teachers can use AI to save time, spark creativity, and streamline admin — without losing the vital human connection that makes teaching so powerful. From lesson planning and practice tools to lyric writing and accountability, find out how AI can become a helpful ally in your teaching toolkit. WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST? 1:24 What can AI NOT do? 14:02 How can we use AI positively ...
In this episode, Alexa sits down with voice teacher and performer Conor Angell to explore his influential article How Do You Teach Voice? Six Vital Non-Musical Teaching Principles. They discuss how these principles shape effective teaching, what’s changed since 2019, and the importance of kindness, agency, and adaptability in the studio. Conor also reveals what he’d now add as a seventh principle, offering fresh insights for voice teachers, singers, and educators alike. WHAT’S IN ...
In this episode we welcome Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross - co-authors of New York Times bestseller Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us, where they explore how the arts are not just entertainment, but vital to human health, learning, and wellbeing. Our guests reveal how art physically changes the brain and body. We discuss neuroaesthetics—the science of how art impacts us—alongside practical ways teachers and creatives can use these insights in their own work. Whether you’re curious abo...
Looking for fresh and engaging repertoire for young voices? In this episode, Alexa shares 10 fantastic song choices for pre-pubertal singers (ages 7–11), blending pop, musical theatre, Disney magic, and lyrical gems. Along the way, she unpacks how to adapt tricky material, and keep young singers inspired without shutting down their curiosity. Whether you’re a singing teacher or choir leader, you’ll leave with practical tips, creative workarounds, and plenty of musical inspiration for the next...
AI is shaking up the music industry — but what does that mean for singers, teachers, and creatives? In this episode, Alexa chats with Dr. Rachael Drury to unpack how generative AI is impacting songwriting, session work, copyright law, and even live performance. We explore what’s at risk, what’s protected, and what we can still hold onto as humans in a digital age. Whether you’re AI-curious or already feeling the shift, this is your essential guide to understanding AI’s role in music today, an...
What sets a technically strong performer apart from a truly unforgettable one? In this episode, Molly Marie Walsh — performer, educator, and MT history advocate — unpacks how a deep understanding of musical theatre’s roots enriches performance, informs vocal style, and builds lasting careers. From the social commentary of Hadestown to the escapism of 1930s musicals, Molly and Alexa explore how history shapes artistry, interpretation, and authenticity on stage. A must-listen for performers, te...
Feeling like there’s never enough time? You’re not alone. In this episode, Alexa and Line tackle one of the biggest challenges for singing teachers (and humans): time management. With humour and practical wisdom, they share simple, effective strategies, from time-blocking and micro-goals to prioritisation hacks and the Pomodoro technique. Whether you’re juggling students, study, or life in general, this episode will help you reclaim your time and reduce overwhelm. Bonus: details on BAST’s new...
This week, Alexa is joined by performer and vocal coach Conor O’Hara (fresh from the UK tour of Wicked) to explore 10 standout songs for male singers in the contemporary musical theatre space. From smart audition choices to vocal technique tips, Conor offers practical, performer-led insight that both singers and teachers will find invaluable. Whether you're building your rep book or guiding a student through their next audition, this episode is packed with gold. WHAT’S IN THIS PO...