Curious Vocalists

Grace Hancock Music
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated weekly

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.

  1. 19 hr ago

    #34 From Classical to Contemporary: Navigating the Technical Shift to a Commercial Sound

    In this episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace is joined by Annie Little, an LA-based actress, vocal coach, and founder of The Unlimited Voice. Together, they look at the mechanical and mental shifts required to move from classical aria setups to contemporary commercial singing. They discuss how their opposite starting points led to similar hurdles with their mixed voices. While Grace struggled with a heavy chest voice that flipped into an airy head register, Annie found herself living exclusively in a head-dominant classical placement, fighting extrinsic tension just to find her lower register. They break down the exact vocal exercises and mental perspective shifts that helped them untangle old habits, including speech-level vocal concepts, larynx stabilisation, vowel modifications, and using acting prompts to get out of your head. Whether you are dealing with a stubborn vocal flip, unmanaged volume at the top of your range, or a tongue that wants to pull back, this conversation offers practical, unconventional tools to help you build a flexible, contemporary sound.   Takeaways Vocal exercises should focus on speech-like sounds to enhance contemporary singing. Using playful sounds can help students break out of their singing mode. Understanding vowel modification is crucial for effective singing. Acting and emotion can enhance vocal performance and expression. Singers often struggle with transitioning between vocal registers. Finding a balance between chest and head voice is key to a successful contemporary sound. Patience is key; changes can take months or even years. Finding joy in singing is essential for progress. Adjusting songs to fit your current vocal abilities can enhance enjoyment. Curiosity and playfulness are crucial in vocal training. Singing should be about expression, not perfection.   Chapters 00:36 Introduction to Vocal Coaching and Backgrounds 02:59 Challenges in Transitioning from Classical to Contemporary Singing 05:48 Techniques for Developing a Contemporary Sound 08:54 The Role of Speech in Singing 12:06 Building Non-Classical Habits 17:49 Understanding the Differences Between Classical and Contemporary Styles 19:58 Issues with Singing Like You Speak 25:16 Common Transition Challenges from Classical to Contemporary 32:27 Techniques for Breath Control 39:06 How to Keep the Joy in the Process 45:05 Navigating Psychological Barriers 49:24 Quickfire Insights and Final Thoughts   Contact Annie: www.theunlimitedvoice.com/ instagram.com/theunlimitedvoice/   Mentions institute for vocal advancement (IVA) - https://www.vocaladvancement.com/   Brett Manning’s Singing Success and Mastering Mix courses that Grace benefitted from. The Mastering Mix course is particularly effective on female voices for the transition from classical contemporary singing - https://singingsuccess.com/author/brett-manning/ https://singingsuccess.com/mastering-mix-is-a-manning-masterpiece/#down   Previous episode on the vowel alterations: #10 Modify Your Vowels Like A Pro: A Whitney Houston Study - www.podbean.com/ew/pb-f4ydq-1a122c9   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 gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com instagram.com/gracehancockmusic facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    57 min

  2. 18 Jun

    #33 How to Add a Bluesy Touch to Your Singing Voice: Ray Charles Case Study

    In this case study episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace breaks down the distinctive qualities and vocal techniques that defined Ray Charles as a legendary singer and performer. Discover how he balanced a raw, unpolished grit with a deeply rooted chest resonance and forward placement to create an incredibly emotive and timeless sound. The episode explores his masterful, unpredictable phrasing that rejected a square, predictable rhythm in favour of emotional storytelling. Grace also highlights his intentional use of vocal imperfections—such as breaks, cries, and audible breaths—to drive the narrative of a song rather than simply showing off vocal acrobatics. Packed with practical, joy-driven exercises you can try at home, this episode offers actionable insights into incorporating bluesy colours, pentatonic scales, and genuine emotional intent into your own unique voice. To hear these techniques in action, you can access the curated YouTube playlist matching the order of the songs discussed in this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxmpDkAsBTotUBLX5IoKQWHu0bcw1jU5Q   Key Topics Ray Charles' vocal tone and placement Phrasing and timing in singing Adding bluesy colour and emotion Vocal resonance Breath control and emotional delivery Using imperfections for authenticity Pentatonic and blues scales mastery Expressive embellishments and riffs   Takeaways Ray Charles' tone combines roughness and refinement, rooted in chest resonance. Phrasing is about storytelling—artistic fluidity with the rhythms and being lead by the emotion. Bluesy colour comes from a solid internalisation of the minor pentatonic and blues scales. Emotions are conveyed through tone colour, dynamics, and intentional imperfections. Breath and timing are crucial for emotional impact and authenticity.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ray Charles' Vocal Techniques 00:54 Trying out Ray's Tone and Placement 05:05 Riffs and Bends: Get The Bluesy Signature Sound 10:24 How to Use Vocal Imperfections for Emotional Connection 14:06 How to Communicate Emotion Only Through Vocal Tone 17:43 Conclusion: Character Over Perfection   Resources: Youtube Playlist with songs mentioned: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxmpDkAsBTotUBLX5IoKQWHu0bcw1jU5Q   Songs mentioned: I Gotta Woman Georgia A Fool For You The Night time is the Right Time I Can’t Stop Loving You   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 gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com instagram.com/gracehancockmusic facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    20 min

  3. 11 Jun

    #32 Future-Proof Your Voice: Pre-habilitation for Singers and Speakers

    Vocal fitness is not a topic to store away for later life. On this episode of Curious Vocalists, Dr. Rebecca Moseley-Morgan, researcher, educator, and incoming President of the British Voice Association, breaks down the physiological shifts that begin in our late 20s and 30s. Using insights from voice science and organology, she outlines the early structural changes affecting our respiratory muscles and vocal folds. Dr. Moseley-Morgan shares highly practical prehabilitation techniques—including sirens, straw-phonation hacks, and tongue-root tension releases—designed to fit effortlessly into a busy, modern routine. Whether you are gigging nightly, teaching, or speaking on mic, this conversation delivers essential lifestyle habits and data-backed tools to stop early vocal strain and protect your long-term acoustic health.   Key Topics Vocal aging misconceptions Impact of aging on respiratory muscles and vocal folds Effective vocal exercises and techniques Importance of hydration and breath control Recognising early signs of vocal strain and damage   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vocal Health and Aging 02:14 Rebecca's Journey from Opera to Research 03:43 Understanding Vocal Changes Over Time 06:38 Easy Daily Techniques for Vocal Health 10:39 How to Care For Your Voice in Your 20s/30s 14:39 Recognising Vocal Issues Early 15:13 Exercises to Improve Breathy Voices 18:58 The Stigma Attached to Vocal Injury 20:22 Effect of Emotion on Voice Function 22:01 Managing Vocal Load and Care 24:56 Establishing a Vocal Routine 26:31 Managing Tension in Singing 29:07 How to Harness Power From the Belly 34:51 Menopause and Myths About Vocal Changes 38:54 Maintaining Vocal Range with Age 40:02 Key Takeaways for Singers   Resources: Rebecca’s Website: www.singstrongerforlonger.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 gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com instagram.com/gracehancockmusic facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    44 min

  4. 4 Jun

    #31 Studio Mastery: Communicating Your Artistic Vision with Confidence

    In this episode of Curious Vocalists, we step into the studio with Kimberly Shires, a classically trained clarinetist turned independent music producer, audio engineer, and owner of Hear Me Roar Studios. Kimberly shares powerful insights from her recent festival panel about breaking down technical barriers and eliminating the gatekeeping that often leaves artists feeling lost during the production process.   We explore why walking into a session relying solely on emotion can lead to miscommunication, as human feelings are entirely unique. Kimberly explains how artists can use reference tracks as a translation tool to dissect songs, identify specific sonic elements, and communicate effectively with engineers without needing to know complex technical jargon. The conversation also covers practical studio preparation—from the necessity of practicing with a metronome and marking breathing points on lyric sheets, to the psychological benefits of fixed-price recording sessions that eliminate the pressure of the clock.   Finally, Kimberly discusses the realisation that led her to launch Hear Me Roar Studios as a dedicated, welcoming environment for women, queer, and gender-expansive creators. Describing her role as "part music producer and part empowerment," Kimberly explains why a successful recording session often requires the skills of a therapist—building deep trust, reading an artist's hesitation, creating a space where it is safe to say "no," and ultimately helping vocalists access a level of confidence and power they never knew they possessed.   Key Topics Studio environment barriers and solutions Using reference tracks to communicate sound Empowering artists through language and collaboration   Chapters 00:00 Empowering Artists in the Studio 02:57 Navigating Emotions and Reference Tracks 06:03 How to Communicate Vision and Sound 10:17 How to Keep the Vision You Want for A Song 14:34 Co-Creation Rather Than Blind Trust 18:15 Bringing Out the Best in Reserved Artists 22:15 Navigating Creative Pressure 22:41 Preparing for A Studio Session 25:13 Mastering Timing and Rhythm 26:46 Prep for Voice and Lyrics Performance 30:26 No Music Theory Knowledge? - No Problem 31:36 The Journey to Empowerment in Music Production 34:21 The Studio As A Safe Space for Connection and Creation 36:41 Get In Touch With Kimberly   Mentions: Kimberly’s Studio: hearmeroarstudio.com  Follow her on Instagram: instagram.com/hearmeroarstudio/ Kimberly’s Free Guide to Recording Vocals From Home: https://hearmeroarstudio.com/free-vocal-guide   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 gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com instagram.com/gracehancockmusic facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    40 min

  5. 28 May

    #30 Truth, the Inner Critic, and Creative Wellbeing with Life Coach Tom Fogg

    In this episode of Curious Vocalists, life coach Tom Fogg joins a relaxed, conversational, yet profound exploration of the the relationship between truth, authenticity, and creativity. Rather than a structured interview, this is an open dialogue centred on the concept of truth and its foundational role in maintaining creative wellbeing. They discuss practical techniques for embracing self-compassion, overcoming creative blocks, and living in harmony with the natural flow of life, inspired by philosophies like Taoism. The conversation is honest, personal and explores psychologically grounded ways to navigate the inner critic we all have, moving past superficial solutions to examine what happens when we face our internal voices with absolute honesty. This episode offers an unhurried, substantial look into the psyche, making it a perfect match for those who appreciate meaningful, psychological exploration rather than a bit of light listening.   Key Topics The relationship between truth and creativity The three capabilities of autonomy: awareness, spontaneity, intimacy Techniques for entering flow state and overcoming creative blocks The role of self-compassion and acceptance in artistic work The influence of Taoism and the Tao Te Ching on creative practice   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Authenticity and Creativity 05:21 Navigating the Creative Process 13:06 How Creativity Can Be Stifled as a Child 18:25 Overcoming Stigmas Around Being an Artist 21:56 Our Thoughts as Self-inflicted Suffering 26:30 Allowing Creativity Rather Than Forcing It 31:41 Compassionate Living and Acceptance 33:06 Navigating Creative Blocks 36:33 Lower Your Expectations But Never Your Standards 42:24 Confronting the Inner Critic 44:56 The Power of Sharing Your Truth 49:16 The Courage to Share   Resources Mentioned: The Games People Play - Book by Eric Burn The Creative Act - Book by Rick Rubin The Tao Te Ching - Book (translation by Stephen Mitchell) Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway - Book by Susan Jeffers Dr. K’s The Healthy Gamer podcast - Episode title: Your Standards are Way Higher Than They Should Be The Blind Boy Podcast Tetragrammaton - Rick Rubin’s Podcast    Get in contact with Tom: Instagram - instagram.com/tomfoggcoach/   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 gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com instagram.com/gracehancockmusic facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    54 min

  6. 21 May

    #29 Be Your Own Kind of Funny: Master Authentic Onstage Chat With Logan Murray

    What happens when the music stops and it is time to talk to the crowd? For many musicians and vocalists, bridging the gap between songs is the most nerve-racking part of the show. In this episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace sits down with comedian, author, and comedy workshop leader Logan Murray—who has taught the likes of household names like Greg Davies and Rhod Gilbert. Logan shares invaluable insights into transforming performance anxiety into focused energy, treating the audience like your mates, and tapping into the power of the conversational afterthought. Whether you are an introverted performer looking to connect more naturally or someone looking to inject a bit of playful humour into your set, this conversation explores how to get out of your own head and step into the flow zone. To learn more about Logan's work, books, and upcoming creativity workshops, visit his regular comedy hubs or check out his sessions at the Museum of Comedy in London.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Stage Nerves and Performance Anxiety 04:54 Connecting with the Audience: Treating Them as Friends 08:12 The Art of Conversation in Performance 11:31 Rehearsed vs Spontaneous 12:14 The Importance of Playfulness in Performance 17:13 Workshop Techniques To Find Your Inner Idiot 21:05 All Comedy is A Reaction 23:01 The Impact of Nutrition on Performance 25:39 How much to Prepare for Audience Interaction 27:31 Logan's Various Comedy Workshops 29:03 How to Turn Fear into Playfulness 34:58 The Balance of Stupidity and Cleverness in Comedy 39:31 The Importance of Play in Art and Performance 39:59 Exploring Logan's Creative Ventures 42:02 The Quickfire Round   Mentions/ Resources: Info on Logan’s comedy courses: https://loganmurray.com/news Logan’s Book: Get Started in Stand-Up Comedy - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Started-Stand-Up-Comedy-Teach-Yourself/dp/1473607183   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 gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com instagram.com/gracehancockmusic facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    47 min

  7. 14 May

    #28 The Compelling Speaking Voice (Part 2: How to Captivate and Lead from Any Stage

    In the second half of this special two-part series on the compelling speaking voice, the focus shifts from the physical foundations of voice to the art of delivery and leadership presence. This episode explores how to move beyond a monotone or repetitive delivery to find a voice that commands authority while maintaining a genuine connection with your audience. Through practical exercises and mindset shifts, the discussion covers:   Pitch Variety and Emotional Truth: Learning to use intentional inflection to avoid the repetitive patterns of news reporting and ensure your message lands with gravitas. Projection and Pacing: How to fill a room without shouting by utilising supported breath and forward resonance. The Power of the Pause: Embracing silence to create tension, show self-assuredness, and allow your audience to lean in. The Inner Game: Mindset tools to shift from self-judgment to a focus on service, allowing for a magnetic combination of vulnerability and strength.   Whether you are introducing a song on stage, leading a rehearsal, or presenting in a professional setting, these tools are designed to help you integrate your technical skills with a grounded, authentic presence.   Chapters 00:00 Foundations of Authentic Speaking 00:36 Exploring Pitch and Variety 06:38 Projection and Pacing Techniques 16:31 The Power of Pauses 21:29 Building Confidence and Stage Presence   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 gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com instagram.com/gracehancockmusic facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    27 min

  8. 7 May

    #27 The Compelling Speaking Voice (Part 1): How to Captivate and Lead from Any Stage

    In this first instalment of a special two-part series, Curious Vocalists shifts the spotlight from the singing voice to the speaking voice. While musicians spend countless hours perfecting their melodies, the words spoken between songs—introductions, workshop instructions, and audience gratitude—are just as vital for establishing authority and authentic connection. Grace guides you through the essential physical pillars of a confident stage presence: posture, breath, and resonance. This episode is designed to be interactive, featuring three specific exercises you can perform in real-time to reset your posture, anchor your breath for steady delivery, and find your natural resonant "home" voice. Learn how to stop speaking from the throat and start commanding the room with a tone that is both warm and authoritative. In this episode, you will: Learn a 45-second posture reset to instantly feel more powerful on stage. Discover how to avoid speaking on residual air by using a supported breath anchor. Practice finding your resonant chest tone to move away from nervous, thin, or throat-based speaking. Explore the difference between performing a persona and delivering your natural, unencumbered voice with intention. Featured Exercises: Exercise 1: Posture Reset (03:31) Exercise 2: Breath Anchor (07:46) Exercise 3: Finding Your Resonant Home Voice (19.43)   Takeaways Good posture and diaphragmatic breathing are essential for confident speaking. Recording yourself helps identify and correct breathing habits. Engaging the body through exercises like yoga and handstands reduces tension. Your speaking voice starts in your body, not your throat. Hum and vocal warm-ups stimulate nitric oxide and improve resonance.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Confident Speaking 01:25 Engaging the Diaphragm and Body Awareness 06:41 Exercises for Better Breath Support 11:11 Why Handstands Help Your Voice 14:38 Tone, Resonance and Authenticity   Resources Episode 25 For The Anxious Performer: Nervous System Regulation with Emily Kennedy-Barnes - Curious Vocalists Episode 25 For The Anxious Performer More info on the health benefits of humming, nitric oxide and its roles in your health - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVoGbaq8xos   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 gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    26 min
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out of 5
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Grace Hancock Music
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Curious Vocalists