BU BÖLÜM HAKKINDA
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
http://www.gracehancockmusic.com
