Singing For Our Minds

Together Productions
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Singing For Our Minds is a podcast about the power of group singing to uplift, heal, and connect. Hosted by Jeremy Haneman, Aga Serugo-Lugo, and Nicola Wydenbach, each episode dives into themes like mental wellbeing, communication, imposter syndrome and much more. With expert guests, practical tips, and inspiring stories, it’s a must-listen for group singing leaders, vocalists, musicians, and anyone passionate about creating inclusive singing spaces that foster real change. Produced by Together Productions.

Episodes

  1. 07/05/2025

    Ep 8: Mental Health Essentials for Singing Leaders

    In this episode, hosted by Nicola Wydenbach, we delve into the intersection of mental health and music, specifically for singing leaders. Joined by Dr. Yoon Irons from the University of Derby and Ian Noonan, a consultant nurse and senior lecturer, the discussion covers mental health awareness, effective resource signposting, and fostering supportive rehearsal environments. Insights from music therapy and practical tips for choir leaders emphasise hydration, supervision, proactive mental health strategies, and self-care. The episode also touches upon the balance between artistic integrity and mental wellbeing, especially in performance settings.    00:00 Introduction to Mental Health for Singing Leaders  00:22 Meet the Experts: Dr. Yoon Irons and Ian Noonan  01:06 Personal Journeys in Music and Mental Health  05:51 Challenges and Tips for Singing Leaders  11:12 Supporting Choir Members' Mental Wellbeing  17:41 Handling Mental Health Crises in Choir Settings  27:41 Best Practices for Inclusive Choir Leadership  35:55 Balancing Mental Health and Performance  44:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    Presenters: Nicola Wydenbach  Producer: Julia Valentini   Editor: Nouria Bah  Music: Will Gardner

    43 min

  2. 07/05/2025

    Ep 7: Choir Leadership: Balancing Inclusivity and Artistic Vision

    In this episode, hosts Aga Serugo-Lugo and Nicola Wydenbach discuss how choir leaders can balance inclusivity and their artistic vision. Special guests Amy Bebbington, a choral conductor and educator, and Naveen Arles, a vocal leader, share their journeys and experiences. They delve into strategies for navigating choir dynamics, the importance of collaboration, and the role of communication and flexibility in fostering a supportive environment.    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions  01:36 Amy Bebbington's Journey in Choir Leadership  03:26 Naveen Arles' Journey in Choir Leadership  05:31 Advocacy and Inclusivity in Music  10:42 Balancing Inclusivity and Artistic Vision  19:04 Handling Conflicts and Choir Demands  27:51 Effective Communication and Collaboration  35:06 Final Thoughts and Takeaways    Presenters: Aga Serugo-Lugo and Nicola Wydenbach  Producers: Julia Valentini   Editor: Nouria Bah  Music: Will Gardner

    36 min

  3. 07/05/2025

    Ep 6: Balancing Artistic Integrity and Self-Care as a Singing Leader

    In this episode, hosted by Jeremy Haneman, the focus is on self-care and artistic integrity for leadership, particularly for those managing community choirs. Special guest Zena Edwards, a poet, vocalist, and cultural activist, shares her journey and insights on balancing personal well-being with creative responsibilities. Zena discusses the importance of reflection, maintaining dignity, and using one's craft for self-care. The conversation also emphasises having personal mission statements and setting achievable goals for self-empowerment. Zena highlights the necessity for leaders to openly communicate their needs and the value of creating a supportive community atmosphere.    00:00 Introduction to Self-Care and Artistic Integrity  00:23 Meet Zena Edwards: A Journey in Art and Activism  02:30 Zena's Personal Journey and Inspirations  03:24 The Importance of Integrity in Art  04:11 Challenges and Self Care in the Artistic Journey  09:10 Breathing Techniques for Singers  11:09 Staying Purposeful in Your Craft  13:22 Personal Mission Statements for Artists  15:33 Balancing Leadership and Personal Well-being  18:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    Presenters: Jeremy Haneman  Producer: Julia Valentini   Editor: Nouria Bah  Music: Will Gardner

    20 min

  4. 07/05/2025

    Ep 5: Supporting Vocal Recovery: Understanding Trauma's Impact on the Voice

    In this episode, hosted by Nicola Wydenbach, guests Darren Abrahams and Nadine Benjamin discuss the complex ways trauma can affect the voice and how singing leaders can support vocal recovery and resilience. Abrahams, a trauma therapist and coach, emphasises the importance of a regulated nervous system in leading groups, while Benjamin, an acclaimed soprano, shares her personal journey from trauma to healing. They offer insights and strategies for recognising and addressing trauma-related behaviours in singers, highlighting the crucial role of community and self-care for leaders in creating a safe and therapeutic musical environment.    00:00 Introduction to Vocal Trauma  00:14 Meet Our Experts: Darren Abrahams and Nadine Benjamin  02:42 Defining Trauma: A Deep Dive  04:27 Personal Stories of Trauma and Singing  07:26 Clinical Insights on Trauma and the Voice  09:39 Recognising Trauma Responses in Singers  15:42 Strategies for Singing Leaders  17:50 The Importance of Self-Care for Leaders  25:22 Understanding the Vagus Nerve  28:44 Practical Resources and Exercises  33:15 Final Thoughts and Conclusion    Presenters: Nicola Wydenbach  Producer: Julia Valentini   Editor: Nouria Bah  Music: Will Gardner

    32 min

  5. 07/05/2025

    Ep 4: Creating Harmony: The Role of Communication in Choir Leadership

    Hosts Aga Serugo-Lugo and Jeremy Haneman discuss the impact of effective communication on choir performance and environment with guests Tom Herring, co-founder and artistic director of Sansara, and Edward Price, a renowned vocalist with the BBC Singers. They delve into mental health challenges in professional singing, the importance of holistic excellence, and the need for open, two-way communication between conductors and singers.    00:00 Introduction to Effective Communication in Choirs  00:46 Meet Our Esteemed Guests  01:53 Mental Health in Professional Singing  03:28 The Impact of Choir Dynamics on Mental Health  11:30 Communication in Choir Rehearsals  22:00 Balancing Artistic Needs and Wellbeing  25:53 Future of Choir Leadership  29:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    Presenters: Aga Serugo-Lugo and Jeremy Haneman  Producers: Julia Valentini and Nouria Bah  Editor: Nouria Bah  Music: Will Gardner

    30 min

  6. 07/05/2025

    Ep 3: Embedding the 5 Ways to Wellbeing in Choirs

    In this episode, host Nicola Wydenbach, along with co-hosts Aga Serugo-Lugo and Jeremy Haneman, discuss the integration of the five ways to wellbeing into choir and music group practices. They share their extensive backgrounds in community music-making and provide clear examples of how choir activities can enhance mental and physical health. The episode explores practical exercises for choir leaders, the importance of understanding song lyrics, and ways to balance musical excellence with participant wellbeing.    00:00 Introduction and Host Introduction  00:11 Meet the Co-Hosts: Aga and Jeremy  02:20 Understanding the Five Ways to Wellbeing  02:54 Applying Wellbeing in Choir Rehearsals  09:18 Practical Exercises for Choir Leaders  29:13 Balancing Wellbeing and Musical Excellence  38:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    Presenters: Aga Serugo-Lugo, Jeremy Haneman, and Nicola Wydenbach  Producer: Julia Valentini   Editor: Nouria Bah  Music: Will Gardner

    38 min

  7. 07/05/2025

    Ep 2: Mindfulness in Music Groups

    In this episode, host Jeremy Haneman, alongside co-hosts Aga Serugo-Lugo and Nicola Wydenbach, dive into the concept of integrating mindfulness into music group practices. Aga, a versatile musician and composer, and Nicola, a dedicated music director and vocal coach, share their methods and techniques for fostering mindfulness during rehearsals and performances. The discussion covers definitions of mindfulness, practical breathing exercises, handling performance anxiety, and managing post-performance reflections. The episode culminates in a conversation about maintaining positivity and coping with imposter syndrome as choir leaders.    00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome  00:12 Meet the Co-Hosts: Aga and Nicola  02:08 Defining Mindfulness  04:20 Mindfulness Techniques in Rehearsals  10:28 Managing Performance Anxiety  18:45 Post-Performance Rituals and Feedback  25:28 Maintaining Positivity and Self-Care  29:03 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome  35:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    Presenters: Aga Serugo-Lugo, Jeremy Haneman, and Nicola Wydenbach  Producer: Julia Valentini   Editor: Nouria Bah  Music: Will Gardner

    34 min

  8. 07/05/2025

    Ep 1: Mastering Group Dynamics

    Hosts Aga Serugo-Lugo, Jeremy Haneman, and Nicola Wydenbach discuss mastering group dynamics in choir settings. They explore topics such as supporting singers to sing in tune, maintaining group happiness, and mental health awareness. Jeremy and Nicola share insights from their extensive backgrounds in choir leadership, emphasising the importance of empathy, mutual respect, and the delicate balance between musical discipline and emotional support. They also provide practical tips for choir leaders to enhance group cohesion and performance.    00:00 Introduction to Group Dynamics in Singing  00:24 Meet the Co-Hosts: Jeremy and Nicola  02:43 The Importance of Internal Dynamics in Choirs  04:55 Empathy and Leadership in Choirs  14:14 Balancing Musical Discipline and Emotional Support  23:03 Handling Out of Tune Singers  29:54 Top Tips for Choir Leaders  33:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    Presenters: Aga Serugo-Lugo, Jeremy Haneman, and Nicola Wydenbach  Producer: Julia Valentini   Editor: Nouria Bah  Music: Will Gardner

    33 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

Singing For Our Minds is a podcast about the power of group singing to uplift, heal, and connect. Hosted by Jeremy Haneman, Aga Serugo-Lugo, and Nicola Wydenbach, each episode dives into themes like mental wellbeing, communication, imposter syndrome and much more. With expert guests, practical tips, and inspiring stories, it’s a must-listen for group singing leaders, vocalists, musicians, and anyone passionate about creating inclusive singing spaces that foster real change. Produced by Together Productions.

Information

  • Creator
    Together Productions
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Together Productions
  • Show Website
    Singing For Our Minds