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. 6 DAYS AGO

    #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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 13 MAR

    #19 Losing Your Love of Music? Understanding Burnout with Psychotherapist Jessica Quiñones

    In this conversation, Grace Hancock and Jessica Quiñones delve into the complexities of musical burnout, exploring its symptoms, the impact of perfectionism, and the relationship musicians have with their craft. They discuss the importance of understanding the psychological aspects of musicianship and how to reclaim joy in music through setting boundaries and addressing personal needs. Grace and Jessica explore the complexities of maintaining a relationship with music, setting boundaries, and the therapeutic process of reconnecting with one's inner child. They discuss the challenges of songwriting, the importance of play in creativity, and how to navigate burnout in the music industry. The dialogue emphasises the significance of creating a new relationship with music that fosters joy and fulfilment, rather than pressure and expectation.   Takeaways Musical burnout encompasses a variety of symptoms and experiences. Many musicians face existential exhaustion and performance anxiety. Perfectionism can lead to a toxic relationship with music. Identifying personal motivations for making music is crucial. Setting boundaries is essential for mental health in music. Musicians often need to redefine their relationship with music. Therapeutic work can help musicians reconnect with their essence. Not all musicians return to music in the same way after burnout. Understanding one's history with music can aid in recovery. Connecting with one's inner child can unlock creativity. Therapeutic techniques can help in reconnecting with lost parts of self. Re-entering music after burnout requires a new approach. Creating a new relationship with music involves changing expectations. Engaging in playful activities can replenish creative energy.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jessica Quinones 03:04 Identifying Symptoms of Musical Burnout 05:46 The Impact of Feeling Like You Are Never Enough 09:06 Musicianship as an Abusive Relationship 11:55 Why Do We Perform? 14:12 Perfectionism and the Need for the 'Safe Zone' 17:55 Coming Back to Your Essence 19:20 Setting New Boundaries in Your Musical Relationship 22:28 The Difficulties of Accessing Creativity 25:02 Connecting with the Inner Child 27:17 Therapeutic Techniques for Reconnecting with Self 32:07 Rediscovering Joy in Music 33:12 Finding Time for Play to 'Fill the Well' of Inspiration 37:06 Re-entering Music After Burnout 39:45 Finding Support in the Music Industry   Mentions: Contact Jessica: drjessicaquinones.com The Music Industry Therapists Collective MITC: www.musicindustrytherapists.com The Concept of ‘Artist Dates’ from the book ‘The Artist’s Way’ by Julia Cameron   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.   gracehancockmusic@gmail.com www.gracehancockmusic.com Instagram: @gracehancockmusic Facebook: @gracehancockmusician   #burnout #psychology #musician #mentalhealth #self-identity #perfectionism #musictherapy #creativity #innerchild #settingboundaries #therapy #fulfillment, #musicindustry

    44 min

  6. 6 MAR

    #18 From Jealous Rage to Creative Flow: Ending the Comparison Trap

    Ever felt like someone else’s musical success is your own personal failure? If you’ve ever felt the urge to slam your instrument down in a fit of jealousy, this episode is for you. Grace explores the complex emotions of jealousy and anger that often arise in the creative process. She shares her personal experiences of feeling inadequate in the face of her partner's success and discusses the psychological mechanisms behind these feelings, including the concept of the 'amygdala hijack.' Grace emphasises the importance of recognising and addressing these emotions, understanding that each artist's journey is unique, and creating a supportive inner environment for creativity to flourish. She offers practical strategies for managing anger and energy, and encourages listeners to embrace their individual creative rhythms without succumbing to comparison and competition.   Takeaways Anger is often a defence response to a more vulnerable emotion, such as jealousy The amygdala triggers our fight or flight reactions. It's important to separate your musical journey from others’ in your mind. Comparison of your inner world with someone’s outer world can create an impossible standard for success. Creativity has phases or seasons; not every stage seems outwardly productive. Tending to your inner world is crucial for maintaining creativity. Physical activity can help release pent-up emotions. Trust in your unique artistic journey is essential. Embrace the love for music that inspired you as a child.   Chapters 00:00 How Others' Success Can Feel Like Our Failure 04:25 Understanding How Our Emotions Try To Protect Us 05:41 Naming Emotions to Regulate Them 06:46 Separating Your Journey from Others' Success 08:26 The Comparison Trap and Its Pitfalls 09:33 How We Can Attach Our Worth to Our Achievements 13:17 There Are Seasons in a Creative Life 15:00 Physical Manifestations of Anger and How to Release It 17:08 Practical Strategies for Emotional Reset 21:14 Embracing Your Unique Creative Path   Mentions: What is meant for your will not pass you by - Episode 3 with Avionce Hoyles: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6ZbWBXtSN4F5eha7IYNdjC?si=54b35d9088174a59   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   #jealousy #music #creativity #comparison #emotions #mentalhealth #amygdala #personalgrowth #artisticjourney #angermanagement #selfacceptance #innercritic

    24 min

  7. 27 FEB

    #17 The Original Artist’s Reality Check: SJ Mortimer on the Adrenaline, the Burnout, and the In-Between

    Singer Songwriter, SJ Mortimer pulls back the curtain on the reality of following her dream as a front-woman of multi award-winning Americana Rock Band, Morganway. From recognising the red flags of the burnout cycle, to the paralysing perfection trap that often kills the very creativity it’s trying to polish. We move past the highlight reels to discuss the need for healthy sleep patterns, a genuine support system and a deep look inwards as the cure for imposter syndrome, burnout and the balancing act of life, business and creativity. If you’ve ever felt like you’re faking it—or just wondered if everyone else is struggling as much as you are—this conversation is the reality check you been needing.   Takeaways Live performance has potential to be your friend and foe depending on your mindset If the love for it is gone, don’t assume it’s dead; take a break. Support from partners and friends is crucial in the music industry. Don’t go it alone. Everyone feels imposter syndrome at some point. The people you think have ‘made it’ probably feel the same about their life as you do. Perfectionism isn’t often in the best interests of the overall creation The first take is often the best Mistakes on stage can create a deeper connection with the audience. Community and shared experiences in music foster support and understanding.   Chapters 00:00 SJ Mortimer's Onstage Persona 02:56 The Stage as Your Friend or Foe? 07:53 Fear of the Unknown as an Independent Musician 09:30 Balancing Everyday Life with Music 11:35 How Going Full Time Changed the Creative Process 15:06 Sleep Patterns and their Impact on Creativity 19:19 The Reality of Life as a Gigging Musician 23:52 Mistakes Onstage and The Musician's Inner Critic 31:03 Remembering the Purpose of Music in Our Lives 34:33 Working Around Perfectionism in the Recording Studio 38:33 How to Keep the Creative Juices Flowing 46:58 Where to Find Sj and Morganway 48:34 Quickfire Questions   Mentions: SJ’s Americana Rock Band: www.Morganway.co.uk SJ website: www.SJMortimer.net www.instagram.com/sjmortimer/ www.facebook.com/sjmortimermusic   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   #Americana #rock #musicindustry #burnout #liveperformance #creativity #independentmusician #impostersyndrome #songwriting #singersongwriter #frontwoman #musicianlife

    53 min

  8. 20 FEB

    #16 Why You Shouldn't Sing How You Speak: Dipthonging is Holding You Back

    Are you confused about whether to sing like you speak? Grace takes you through how singing in a speech-like quality can rob your voice of a certain ‘je ne said quoi’ and how to alter your vowels for that flowing, professional sound. The episode explains the concept of dipthonging and why it’s detrimental to your sound. It’s a practical, virtual lesson focusing on the importance of vowel alterations, tongue positioning, and airflow management in singing. The discussion includes practical exercises and examples from professional singers like Adele, illustrating how to navigate high notes and manage consonant sounds effectively. The session concludes with key takeaways for singers to enhance their vocal performance.   Takeaways Singing requires breaking the habits of conversational speech. Diphthonging is when a singer sings through the smaller vowel sounds in each word Maintaining a consistent airflow is crucial for singing Tongue positioning affects sound quality and resonance Professional singers often alter their vowel sounds without you realising The largest part of the vowel should be juiced for maximum resonance Narrow vowels should open up when singing higher notes, wide vowels should round off. Consonant sounds should be softened to maintain airflow. Understanding vowel trees can reduce pressure and resistance especially in higher ranges   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Diphthonging and Vowel Juicing 01:46 Understanding Diphthonging and Its Impact on Singing 06:17 Practical Examples of Adele's Vowel Alterations 09:52 Consonant Sounds and Maintaining Airflow Exercise 14:13 Vowel Trees Exercises to Relieve Pressure Up High 19:51 The General Rule for Making Your Vowels Work For You 21:10 Breath Support Exercise for Maintaining Open Throat 25:20 Conclusion   Mentions/Resources: Brett Manning’s Singing Success - https://singingsuccess.com Vowel Trees (part of Brett Manning’s Singing Success teachings): - ‘Oo’ as in ‘boot’ —> ‘Ouh’ as in ‘book’ —> ‘Uhh’ as in ‘buck’ ‘Ee’ as in “beat’ —> ‘Ih’ as in ‘bit’ —> ‘Eh’ as in ‘bet’ Narrow vowels should open a little and wide vowels should round slightly as you sing higher in your range to enable better airflow and resonance. Feel the pressure lessen on the top notes as you migrate these vowels from left to right. To use this in practise, pin point ‘problem words’ in any song you’re singing where the pitch is high and the vowels are narrow or splatty. You might find it feels squeeze or shaky. You can tweak the vowel more towards the left side of the diagram to release some of the pressure and stabilise the sound in your voice.   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   #vocaltechniques #dipthonging #singingesson #diphthonging #vowelshapes #vocaltone #singing #vocalexercises #airflow #highnotes #consonants #singingcoach

    27 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
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Curious Vocalists