Curious Vocalists

Grace Hancock Music
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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. 4 DAYS AGO

    #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

  2. 30 APR

    #26 Exploring Hypnotherapy for the Self-Doubting Musician

    In this episode of Curious Vocalists, RTT Practitioner and Hypnotherapist Laura Paton joins the show to de-mystify the world of hypnotherapy. She clarifies that the process is far from the freaky stereotypes of swinging clocks or losing consciousness; instead, it is a grounded method of relaxing the nervous system where the individual remains fully in control. The conversation explores how subconscious beliefs dictate our confidence and how to handle those moments when you feel like you’re in so much of a negative ‘funk’ that you BECOME the funk! Laura shares specific somatic techniques to shift out of those heavy mental states, offering performers practical ways to move through self-doubt and find their most authentic voice.   Key Topics What is Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) and how it works The role of subconscious beliefs in self-identity and confidence Techniques for overcoming performance anxiety and self-doubt The importance of self-acceptance and somatic practices in healing How RTT can help creatives and performers find their authentic voice   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Laura Paton 03:47 Exploring Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) 12:01 The Process of RTT and Client Experience 13:56 How Unpicking Past Experiences Can Help Your Identity as a Performer 18:45 Navigating Identity and Self-Worth in Creativity 26:50 The Impact of COVID-19 on Personal Growth 30:02 Finding Courage and Passion in Creativity 31:40 Turning a Negative Funk into Creative Flow 40:48 Future Projects and the Power of Audio Therapy   Resources/ Mentions Laura Paton, RTT Hypnotherapist on Instagram - instagram.com/rtthypnotherapist/ Tree of Life Centre in Hove - www.tolcentre.com/ Muswell Health Centre in North London - www.muswellhealth.uk/ Dr Gabor Mate 3-7-8 breathing Marisa Peer - the founder of the Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) method - https://marisapeer.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

    45 min

  3. 23 APR

    #25 For The Anxious Performer: Nervous System Regulation with Emily Kennedy Barnes

    Why does the voice tighten just when we need it most? In this episode, we sit down with Mind-Body Neuroscientist and Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner Emily Kennedy-Barnes to decode the physiological override that happens on stage.   Emily offers practical exercises beyond basic stress management to explore how neuroscience and somatic experiencing can transform your relationship with your instrument. Emily explains that stage anxiety is a survival response that can bypass your technical training. Instead of traditional poses, we explore somatic yoga as a tool for interoception—learning to understand the signals your body sends to your brain.   Whether you’re a semi-professional or a seasoned pro, this conversation offers a valuable insight into embodiment and nervous system regulation. Try these subtle, practical exercises backstage or in the wings before show to ensure your biology works with you rather than against you.   Key Topics Nervous system and performance Somatic experiencing and trauma release Neuroscience and movement connection   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Somatic Practices 02:55 Understanding Somatic Experiencing and Yoga 06:33 The Body-Mind Connection Explained 08:58 The Impact of Past Experiences on Performance 10:33 Stage Nerves on a Biological Level 14:32 Techniques to Manage Performance Anxiety 19:14 Practical Exercises for Nervous System Regulation 27:36 Exploring the Lymphatic System and Circulation 37:28 Breathwork for Singing with Unregulated Nervous System 41:08 How to Be a More Grounded Performer 47:33 Recovery Strategies After Performances 52:18 Get In Touch with Emily   Mentions: Emily Kennedy-Barnes Instagram - www.instagram.com/somaticyogatherapist/ Emily’s Website: www.somaticyogatherapist.co.uk Emily’s Email - emily@somaticyogatherapist.co.uk The Tree of Life Centre, Brighton - https://www.tolcentre.com/   Extra Info on today's Guest: Emily has a paper currently in press at BJPsych Open -a feasibility randomised controlled trial of somatic yoga therapy for functional neurological disorder, conducted within the NEUROADS Lab at King’s College London. - The first study of its kind!   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 www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

    55 min

  4. 16 APR

    #24 Songwriting as Healing: Turning Your Past into a Powerful Future With Emma G

    How do you break through the old habits and creative "scar tissue" that keep you stuck? In this episode, Grace sits down with award-winning singer-songwriter, author, vocal coach, and TEDx speaker Emma G. After surviving 10 brain surgeries by age 14, Emma didn't just find a way to live—she found a way to rewrite her narrative through music. They discuss her new book, Mental Health Sounds Like This, and take a close look into cognitive reframing. Emma explains how songwriting isn’t just about making music; it’s a neuroscientific tool for moving past trauma, silencing self-sabotage, and reclaiming your voice. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your lyrics or paralysed by your past, this conversation will show you how to use your voice as a precision tool for empowerment and self-discovery.   Key Topics Music as a tool for cognitive reframing The impact of music on brain development after trauma Using songwriting to process emotions and trauma   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emma G's Journey 02:53 The Healing Power of Music 05:53 Neuroscience of Music and Emotion 08:23 Transforming Trauma into Growth 10:49 The Five Stages of Songwriting for Healing 13:54 Using Your Voice as a Tool for Empowerment 16:51 Navigating Emotions and Self-Identity 19:19 Understanding Self-Sabotage and Growth 25:38 Exploring Emotions Through Writing 28:20 Creating a Safe Space for Self-Expression 30:48 Redefining Self-Worth Beyond Productivity 33:54 Learning from Indigenous Cultures 35:58 Taking Control of Your Narrative 38:11 Using Music as a Tool for Self-Discovery 41:43 The Importance of Authentic Expression 45:32 Building Your Own Musical Affirmations   Resources and Mentions: Krav Maga - a form of self defence Emma G's Website - https://emmagmusic.com Mental Health Sounds Like This (Book) - https://shorturl.at/BBn4y https://www.instagram.com/emmagmusic/ My Episode on Meredith Miller’s 5 Archetypes of Self-Sabotage as mentioned: https://admin5.podbean.com/gracehancockmusic/stats/episodes Meredith Miller’s website: https://www.innerintegration.com/ Kimberly Shires - founder of Hear Me Roar Studios  - music production for women and non-binary Artists:  https://hearmeroarstudio.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

    50 min

  5. 9 APR

    #23 Vocal Longevity & Stamina: A Performer’s Maintenance Guide

    Performing every night isn't just an art—it’s an athletic feat. In this solo episode, Grace talks about the rigorous vocal demands of life as a cruise ship performer, sharing the exact strategies she uses to maintain peak stamina while on the go. Whether you’re a professional touring artist or an aspiring singer, this episode serves as a masterclass in vocal longevity. Grace walks you through her personal daily routine, providing live demonstrations of Targeted Warm-Ups to activate every register and faucet of your voice. She gives tips on the mechanics of placement, hydration, breath support, and active vocal injury prevention. Stay listening to the end for a sing along of Grace’s exercise and warm up routine inspired by the vocal runs and riffs of Tori Kelly.   Key Topics Vocal stamina and longevity Hydration and nutrition for singers Warm-up and cool-down routines Breathing techniques and posture   Takeaways Hydrate constantly and eat nourishing meals to support vocal health. Use strategic napping and rest to recover during demanding gigs. Warm up your voice with gentle swoops and lip trills before singing. Practice diaphragmatic breathing to improve stamina and reduce strain. Maintain overall fitness and flexibility through yoga and stretching. Avoid excessive throat clearing and coughing to prevent vocal damage. Use proper vocal placement and resonance to reduce strain.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vocal Stamina 02:18 Hydration and Nutrition for Singers 04:53 The Importance of Vocal Warm-ups 08:06 Movement and Fitness in Singing 10:56 Breathing Techniques for Singers 13:49 Performance Techniques and Vocal Control 17:05 Post-Performance Care and Warm Down 19:34 Vocal Exercises and Practical Tips   Mentions: Tori Kelly’s version of ‘PYT’ by Michael Jackson and the runs I base my exercise routines off of: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZCCPE-b1BQ   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 Grace's Instagram Grace's Facebook

    33 min

  6. 2 APR

    #22 Stuck in Your Head On Stage? The 5 Archetypes of Performance Self-Sabotage

    Are you trapped in your own head when you’re on stage? You’re hitting the notes and wearing the smile, but internally, you’re calculating the audience's reaction rather than feeling the music. In today’s episode, Grace goes deep into the archives of your mind to understand why the flow state feels so elusive for many vocalists. Using Meredith Miller’s transformative framework from her course, Ending Self-Sabotage, Grace explores the five primitive archetypes we develop in childhood to navigate stress: The Pleaser — > becomes the Boundary Setter (note: I said ‘Runner’ becomes the Boundary Setter in the recording. This was an ERROR) The Rationaliser — > becomes the Balanced Thinker The Runner The Aggressor The Eraser The heart of the episode focuses on The Pleaser and The Rationaliser—the archetypes that turns the piano into a "beast" and the stage into a courtroom. Grace shares her own journey from the rigid, "pleasing" stages of cruise ship life to finding a more grounded, authentic connection to music through teaching and boundary-setting. Whether you’re a professional struggling with perfectionism or a student trying to trust your intuition, this episode is a roadmap to moving from a "Primitive" survival mode to becoming a Balanced Thinker and a Healthy Boundary Setter on stage and improving your relationship with your music. Chapters 00:00 The 5 Primitive Archetypes 08:43 How Rationalisers and Pleasers are Hindered on Stage 10:41 Famous Artists and Their Motives to Perform 17:33 How Boundaries and Balanced Thinking Improves Your Singing 25:00 Other Signs You're a Rationaliser or Pleaser in Your Music 30:03 Questions to Reflect On   References & Resources: The framework of the 5 Primitive/Immature Archetypes (Pleaser, Rationaliser, Runner, Aggressor, Eraser) and their Mature counterparts mentioned in this episode is based on the teachings from the course Ending Self-Sabotage by Meredith Miller. For those interested in exploring these archetypes further, I highly recommend checking out her work at www.innerintegration.com   The Link to the course ‘Ending Self-Sabotage’: https://www.innerintegration.com/store/PSAHd5gz   Note: This podcast is a personal commentary and exploration of these concepts as they apply to vocal pedagogy and is not an official representation of the original course material.   Further Listening/reading: Meredith’s Podcast: Inner Integration Podcast - www.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/prisoners-of-childhood-a-commentary-on-alice/id1418633395?i=1000452245309 - Prisoners of Childhood: A commentary on Alice Miller’s The Drama of the Gifted Child Book: Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway - Susan Jeffers   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 Grace's Instagram Grace's Facebook

    35 min

  7. 27 MAR

    #21 Low Range Wins & Vocal Longevity: Ukulele Simon’s ‘Bolicious’ Gigging Strategies

    In this episode, Grace dives into the energetic world of Ukulele Simon, the "beatboxing, looping ukulele guy" known for turning festivals into full-blown "rave-e-leles." They explore the unique challenges and triumphs of having a lower vocal range in a music industry full of tenors or above. Simon reveals how he has leaned into his bonkers ukulele, beatboxing niche that turns even the lowest, chest infected vocal delivery into a raving success. For the professional gigging musician who might view singing as secondary to their instrument, this conversation offers a refreshing masterclass in vocal maintenance and longevity, covering everything from rigorous fitness and dietary rituals to the technical benefits of vocal straw training for warming up on the road. Packed with "silly face noise" beatboxing demos and live looping, this episode is a toolkit for any vocalist ready to embrace their unique power and keep their voice tour-ready.   Key Takeaways: Own the Low End: Stop fighting the "high-voice" industry standard. Embracing a lower range allows for more authentic, sustainable performances. Strategic Rituals: Vocal health isn't just about the throat; it’s about dietary choices and physical fitness to support the breath. The Power of the "Silly Face Noises": Incorporating beatboxing and texture into your vocals can fill out a sound as a solo or small-group performer. Consistency is Key: Using vocal straws regularly is recommended as it can drastically increase vocal performance and recovery.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ukulele Simon 00:00 Beatboxing and Looping Demonstration 06:18 Live Looping and its Challenges 09:09 Embracing Your Low Range Voice 16:33 Gig Preparation Routine 22:03 Physical Fitness and Maintenance for Gigging 29:29 Pre-Gig Rituals and Voice Maintenance 32:12 Vocal Straws Alleviate Strain and Strengthen Your Registers 33:54 2026 Upcoming Gigs and Festival Excitement 37:30 Where to Find Simon Online 37:52 Quickfire Questions and Fun Insights 43:17 Bonkers Baby Shark Rave Demo   Resources & Links Loopy Pro - Looping software mentioned for live performance Simon’s Website - to order his Loop-e-lele Vol.1 tutorial book, upcoming gig information and tutorials Instagram Facebook   Vocal Straw Info: Small Diameter (High Resistance): Best for a deep "reset" and intense vocal fold workout to help with agility and blending your registers before a gig. Large Diameter (Low Resistance): Ideal for gentle warm-downs after a high-energy "rave-e-lele" set. The back-pressure of the bubbles up through the thicker straw acts as a ‘massage’ for your vocal cords after a strenuous vocal session.   Silicone straw for use with water as a ‘vocal massage’ Link to Silicone straw on Amazon UK UK Made singing Straws Company: www.rayvox.co.uk   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 Grace's Instagram Grace's Facebook

    47 min

  8. 20 MAR

    #20 Vocal Cringe: Why Your Recorded Voice Sounds Strange (& How to Overcome it)

    Ever wonder, "Is that really me?" when you hear a recording of yourself? In this episode Grace talks about the phenomenon of voice confrontation—the psychological and physiological "cringe" we feel when hearing our own voices played back, the importance of recording ourselves as singers and practical ways we can overcome our discomfort. She breaks down the science of bone conduction versus air conduction to explain why the voice in your head sounds different to the one on tape. Beyond the anatomy, learn from psychological insights, famous artists' experiences of vocal cringe, and simple exercises to improve self-acceptance. Takeaways Your voice sounds different to you because your own anatomy acts as a low-pass filter Many artists disliked their recorded voices, including John Lennon and Bowie. Recording yourself and watching back is crucial for singers’ and musicians’ improvement Practicing recording and listening desensitises you to your voice. The slightest anxiety or discomfort causes you to subtly ‘hold back’ which disproportionately affects how your voice comes across. Your voice mirrors your body language. Throwing an imaginary ball as you vocalise can help bring out confidence in your tone.   Chapters 00:00 The Discomfort of Hearing Our Own Voices 01:23 The Science Behind Voice Perception 02:52 Demonstration of Why Your Voice Sounds Different to You 04:06 How Beethoven Used His Bone Structures to Hear 05:58 The Disconnect Between Your Voice and Your Identity 07:43 Is Your Subconscious Sabotaging Your On-Air Voice? 09:22 Famous Voices and Their Insecurities 11:38 A Trick to Bridge the Gap to Your Recorded Voice 13:22 Reasons Why We MUST Record Ourselves as Singers 16:29 Outro    References & Further Reading: 'How Did Beethoven Hear Music?' - Rick Beato: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bA2V0jZMo4 John Lennon’s "Tomato Ketchup" Vocals: As famously recalled by producer Sir George Martin in the Beatles Anthology. Lennon’s insecurity was so high he often asked Martin to "smother" his voice in effects and ADT (Artificial Double Tracking) to hide its natural sound. David Bowie’s Vocal Identity: See Bowie’s 2003 interview on the Parkinson show (BBC), where he admits he never viewed himself as a "singer" and only took the microphone because no one else was performing his songs. Bono’s "Early Recording" Cringe: In a 2022 interview on the Awards Chatter podcast, the U2 frontman revealed he "turns scarlet" when hearing his early vocals (specifically on the album Boy), describing his younger voice as "strained" and lacking the resonance he has today. Jimi Hendrix’s Studio Shyness: Legendary engineer Eddie Kramer has often shared how Hendrix—despite his wild stage persona—was incredibly self-conscious about his singing. He famously requested recording screens or partitions in the studio so he could sing without the engineers or other musicians watching him. Dolly Parton’s "High and Trilly" Critique: Dolly has often joked in interviews (including her memoirs) about her "cartoonish" or "high and trilly" natural tone. She famously credited her success to leaning into that "twang" to cut through the noise, despite her initial personal critiques of her own pitch. 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: @gracehancockmusic Facebook: @gracehancockmusician

    18 min
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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
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Curious Vocalists