203 | Non-Competitive Singing Festivals with Linda Fletcher

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⭐ Find links mentioned in this episode here: https://www.fullvoicemusic.com/podcast/203/ ⭐

In episode 203 of The FULL VOICE Podcast, Nikki talks with esteemed vocal educator Linda Fletcher about the Oakville Vocal Arts Festival. Unlike traditional competitive festivals, this non-competitive event offers singers of all ages a transformative experience that fosters growth, creativity, and a genuine love for singing in a supportive, pressure-free environment.

Linda shares her motivation for moving away from competitive events and why this new format resonates with everyone, including adjudicators. She’ll explain how the festival’s mission creates incredible opportunities for vocalists to thrive, why stepping away from competition is so important for developing confidence and artistry, and how events like these are crucial for long-term musical development.

🔹[1:42] Oakville Vocal Arts Festival

🔹[9:10] Adjudicators

🔹[21:40] Workshops

🔹[25:57] Singer Songwriter Categories

🔹[35:20] Challenges of prepping for exams

🔹[52:19] Tips on starting your own festival

⭐ MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

🔗 Oakville Vocal Arts Festival https://oakvillevocalartsfestival.ca/

🔗 FVM Podcast 176 | Accompanying Young Singers with Linda Fletcher https://www.fullvoicemusic.com/podcast/176

⭐ ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Linda Fletcher is an award-winning music educator who maintains a thriving private voice studio as well as directing two church choirs. Her choral and vocal compositions are performed worldwide, and her songs are favourite exam selections for young singers. In 2016, she was honoured by the Royal Conservatory of Music as a Teacher of Distinction in recognition of her commitment and contributions to music education. With a song in her heart, Linda encourages students to find joy in singing and creating music.

🔹website: http://www.lindafletcher.com/

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ℹ️ Hosted by Nikki Loney; Edited and Theme Music by Shawn Trotter; Released February 28, 2025

ℹ️ Offers, discounts, and promotions offered in this episode may be time-sensitive and no longer available at time of listening.