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Curious Vocalists
Curious Vocalists episodes
- #9 How to Become a Cruise Ship Musician
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
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
Keywords
#cruiseshipmusician #musiccareer #performancetips #vocalhealth #showreel #networking #musicpreparation #travel #musicianlifestyle
23 min - #8 Techniques for Vocal Versatility with Stephanie Webber
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
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
33 min - #7 Seven Ways to Conquer Your Inner Critic
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
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
#innercritic #selfdoubt #performanceanxiety #uniquevoice #personalgrowth #negativity #selfacceptance #NegativeVoice #innervoice #Audienceengagement #vocalist #stageperformer
18 min - #6 Thrive as a Full-Time Gigging Musician (feat. Adam in the Hat)
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
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
55 min - #5 Stop Stalling, Just Start: Imperfect Action in Creativity (with Gabe Silva)
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
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
#music, #musician, #vocaltechniques, #creativity, #performance, #failtosucceed, #songwriting, #artistic #expression, #vulnerability, #vocalrange, #artistmindset #imperfectaction
35 min - #4 Improve Your Chat Between Songs
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
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
#singer #liveperformance #audienceconnection #stagepresence #banter #confidence #music livemusic #engagement #publicspeaking #improvisation
14 min - #3 Tina Turner's Sound and Finding your Artistic Path with Avionce Hoyles
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
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
#TinaTurner #Singing #Alignment #musicindustry #artistlife #gospel #gospelgrit #vocalcoach
53 min - #2 Improve Your Singing Through Mindset Alone
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
www.gracehancockmusic.com
Instagram: @gracehancockmusic
Facebook: @gracehancockmusician
#singing #mindset #beginner #joy #consistency #hardwork #storytelling #practice #growthmindset #vocal training
20 min - #1 Conquering Stage Fright (with Emmerdale Star Tom Lister)
Tom Lister, best known for his time on Emmerdale and his experience in the televised West End production of 42nd Street, opens up about the challenges of stage fright, forgetting all the lines onstage, tackling voice failures during illness and how the most rude and insensitive advice helped him override his fear of failure. Hear how he feels like an imposter in every job he’s ever had and how he prepares for those big musical theatre high notes. Lastly get a fun insight into Tom’s subconscious with light-hearted quickfire questions.
Takeaways
- Tom Lister has been performing for nearly 25 years, best known for his role in Emmerdale.
- Stage fright is a common challenge for professional performers, including Tom.
- Internalised vocal techniques are essential for overcoming performance anxiety.
- You can conjure up self-belief and override fear by being ‘Johnny Big Bollocks’
- Storytelling in music is crucial for connecting with the audience.
- Personal growth often comes from facing fears and stepping out of comfort zones.
- Tom believes that every job he has done has made him feel like an imposter.
- The best performances come from a place of conviction and feeling.
Chapters and Best Bits
00:00 Introduction
01:00 From Soap Star to Stage Sensation
05:04 Forgetting all the Words Onstage!
08:04 Good Advice like a Slap Around the Face
09:07 Pushing Through Nerves for those Big Notes
11:33 Singer’s Worst Nightmare!: Flu On Stage
17:34 Imposter Syndrome With Every Role
21:51 Make Time to Face your Fears
23:12 What Makes a Good Singer
26:30 Insight into Tom’s Subconscious: Quickfire Questions
27:52 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
www.gracehancockmusic.com
www.Instagram.com/gracehancockmusic
www.Facebook.com/gracehancockmusician
#Tom Lister #singing #musical theatre #stage fright #imposter syndrome #vocal techniques #Emmerdale #explicit
'Lullaby of Broadway' (clip in the intro) - Music by: Harry Warren, Lyrics by: Al Dubin
28 min
About Curious Vocalists
From the publisher's feed
For the curious singers who want to find more fulfilment from their craft, join Grace for a deep dive into comprehensive vocal training techniques and profound emotional awareness.
Featuring insightful interviews with experienced performers and practitioners, listen in as Grace gleans wisdom about the technical know-how, mental resilience and ways to navigate this turbulent industry with integrity and purpose.