The Voice Teacher Podcast

Sam Johnson and Aimee Geddes

Where voice teachers get ideas and inspiration on how to teach better, industry experts share their secrets and Voice teachers improve every day.

  1. 09/10/2025

    Resilience in Voice Teaching: Julie D'Alessandro's story

    Summary In this episode of the Voice Teacher Podcast, host Aimee Geddes interviews Julie D'Alessandro, who shares her personal journey of teaching through trauma after her mother's stroke. Julie discusses the challenges of maintaining her voice teaching business while being a primary caregiver, emphasizing the importance of normalcy, adaptability, and the support of her community. She offers valuable insights on how to keep teaching effectively during difficult times and the significance of showing up for both students and oneself. Takeaways Teaching through trauma can be a unique experience for educators. Maintaining a sense of normalcy is crucial during personal crises. Delegating tasks to others can alleviate stress during challenging times. Showing up for students can be therapeutic for teachers as well. Adapting teaching methods can lead to unexpected growth in students. Repertoire discussions can enhance student engagement during lessons. Creative solutions can be found even in difficult circumstances. Building a supportive community is essential for resilience. Consistency in teaching can help maintain student relationships. Personal experiences can lead to valuable teaching insights. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Julie D'Alessandro 01:48 Teaching Through Trauma: Julie's Story 06:15 The Impact of Trauma on Teaching 09:10 Maintaining Normalcy in Business 15:03 The Importance of Consistency in Teaching 17:25 The Importance of Showing Up 18:29 Adapting Teaching Methods 19:17 Innovative Teaching During COVID 25:10 Lessons Learned from Challenges 28:22 Advice for Teachers in Difficult Times 31:17 Finding Silver Linings 32:18 the voice teacher podcast intro.mp4

    34 min
  2. From Opera to Branson: George's Dyer's Journey

    05/15/2025

    From Opera to Branson: George's Dyer's Journey

    Summary In this episode of The Voice Teacher Podcast, host Aimee Geddes welcomes opera singer and voice teacher George Dyer. They discuss George's extensive travels as a performer, including a memorable experience singing Nessun Dorma on the Great Wall of China. George shares insights about his show in Branson, Missouri, and the transition from a full-time opera career to a more family-oriented lifestyle. He emphasizes the importance of teaching voice and the psychological aspects of singing, offering valuable tips for performers preparing for auditions. In this conversation, Aimee Geddes and George Dyer explore the importance of encouragement in singing, vocal techniques, and the significance of pre-performance routines. They share personal stories that highlight the impact of kindness and support in the music community, discuss various approaches to vocal training, and emphasize the need for singers to love their unique voices. Dyer also shares insights into his performance style and the importance of connecting emotionally with the audience. Takeaways George Dyer has toured the world as a performer. He emphasizes the importance of family in his career choices. Singing on the Great Wall of China was a highlight of his travels. His show in Branson has been running for 16 seasons. Transitioning from opera to Branson allowed him to be more present with his family. Teaching voice is a fulfilling part of his career. The psychology of singing is crucial for performers. Confidence and authenticity are key in auditions. He encourages students to enjoy the moment while performing. Building a family legacy in music is important to him. Encouragement can significantly impact a singer's confidence. Every singer has a unique voice that should be loved and nurtured. It's essential to support aspiring singers rather than discourage them. Vocal technique should be complemented by emotional expression. Pre-performance routines are crucial for mental and vocal preparation. Understanding the body as an instrument is key to effective singing. Singers should focus on shaping vowels for better communication. Stage presence is as important as vocal technique. Personal stories can inspire and motivate others in their singing journey. Creating a supportive community in music is vital for growth.

    49 min
  3. Groove Merchants: The Art of Running a Cover Band with Jefferson Tuke

    02/03/2025

    Groove Merchants: The Art of Running a Cover Band with Jefferson Tuke

    Summary In this episode of the Voice Teacher Podcast, Aimee Geddes interviews Jefferson Tuke, the owner and frontman of Groove Merchants, a successful corporate event and wedding band. Jefferson shares his journey from a boy band singer to running a thriving business, discussing the challenges of managing a band, marketing strategies, and the importance of creative collaboration. He reflects on his break from music, the early days of Groove Merchants, and how he found a niche in the music industry that allows him to balance family life with his passion for performing. In this engaging conversation, Jefferson Tuke shares his experiences in the music industry, discussing his encounters with celebrities, the importance of vocal training, and the journey of self-discovery as a performer. He emphasizes the significance of vocal health, technique, and the work ethic required to succeed in the entertainment industry. Tuke offers valuable advice for aspiring musicians, highlighting the need for perseverance and preparation to seize opportunities.   Takeaways Jefferson Tuke is the owner of Groove Merchants, a corporate event band. He took a break from music to focus on business before returning to performing. Running a band involves marketing, management, and sales skills. Creative collaboration is key to the success of Groove Merchants. Jefferson's wife, Mikkel, is a talented musician and performer. The band performs at high-profile weddings and corporate events. Jefferson emphasizes the importance of finding a niche in the music industry. He shares insights on how to market a cover band effectively. The band has grown significantly since Jefferson and Mikkel joined as partners. Balancing family life with a music career is possible with the right support. Connecting with celebrities can be a positive experience. The journey of vocal training is essential for growth. Vocal health and technique are crucial for longevity in music. Self-belief and perseverance are key to success. Talent is just a small part of the equation; work ethic matters more. Every day should focus on improvement, not just reaching a finish line. Preparation is vital to seize opportunities when they arise. Don't let others dictate your path; believe in yourself. The music industry requires a diverse skill set and adaptability. Encouragement and support can inspire others to pursue their passions.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jefferson Tuke and Groove Merchants 01:13 The Journey of Groove Merchants 03:22 The Challenges of Running a Band Business 04:53 Marketing Strategies for a Cover Band 06:11 Creative Collaboration and Team Dynamics 09:17 Taking a Break from Music: Jefferson's Story 14:24 Re-entering the Music Scene with Groove Merchants 16:19 Early Days of Groove Merchants 18:22 Finding a Niche in the Music Industry 21:42 Connecting with Celebrities and the Music Industry 23:29 The Journey of Vocal Training and Self-Discovery 29:24 The Importance of Vocal Health and Technique 38:51 Advice for Aspiring Musicians and Performers

    43 min

  4. 10/23/2024

    University Diversity in Music with Matt Edwards

    Summary In this conversation, Aimee Geddes interviews Matt Edwards, an associate professor at Shenandoah University, about his innovative work in voice pedagogy, particularly focusing on pop rock music. They discuss the development of unique degree programs, the importance of diversity in music education, and the challenges faced by contemporary music educators. Matt shares insights into the curriculum for both master's and doctorate programs, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and the integration of various musical styles. The conversation also touches on the decline in music enrollment and the implications for the future of music education. In this conversation, Matt Edwards discusses the evolving landscape of music education, highlighting the rising costs of higher education, the impact of technology, and the importance of quality control in online learning. He emphasizes the need for adaptability in musical theater training and the role of voice science in teaching. The conversation also touches on the significance of embracing diversity in vocal expression and the necessity of understanding the human experience through song. Find us at:   www.ivtom.org https://www.su.edu https://www.edwardsvoice.com www.breakthrough-studios.com Takeaways MattEdwards has been instrumental in developing a pop rock program at Shenandoah University. The first master's degree in contemporary commercial music voice pedagogy was established at Shenandoah. Shenandoah's doctorate program is open to singers of all styles, promoting inclusivity. The curriculum includes anatomy, pedagogy, and technology classes for voice training. Students are encouraged to explore diverse methodologies in teaching voice. The master's program offers a flexible format for in-person and online learning. Diversity in music education is crucial for connecting with various communities. Cultural elitism has historically influenced music education in the U.S. There is a concerning decline in enrollment in music programs nationwide. The conversation around the value and cost of higher education is becoming increasingly important. Rising costs in higher education are often unrelated to education quality. Technology has created new opportunities for music education outside traditional institutions. Quality control in online music education is crucial for student success. Voice science should inform teaching but not dominate the learning experience. Musical theater training must adapt to current industry trends and demands. Unique vocal qualities are essential for marketability in the music industry. Singers should be taught to communicate the human experience through song. There is no absolute truth in vocal pedagogy; biases from the past must be reevaluated. Diversity in vocal expression enriches the learning environment for all singers. Mental health and vocal health improve when singers receive instruction aligned with their goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nat Edwards and Shenandoah University 03:11 Building a Pop Rock Program at Shenandoah 06:04 Innovative Degree Programs in Voice Pedagogy 09:09 Curriculum Overview for Masters and Doctorate Programs 12:06 Flexibility in Learning: In-Person and Online Options 15:01 The Need for Diversity in Music Education 17:56 Researching Cultural Elitism in Music Education 21:08 The Decline of Music Enrollment and Its Implications 24:11 Future Directions for Music Education 27:38 The Rising Costs of Higher Education 29:43 The Impact of Technology on Music Education 34:00 The Role of Voice Science in Teaching 37:10 Adapting to Trends in Musical Theater 41:20 Embracing Diversity in Vocal Expression

    50 min
  5. S2 E1 American Idol Secrets...Get YOUR students through!

    05/17/2024

    S2 E1 American Idol Secrets...Get YOUR students through!

    Learn the ins and outs of the NEW American Idol audition process! Kyle Khou is a Casting Producer for American Idol and he gives the inside scoop into what to expect with auditioning for the show, how to help your students to succees in the process and how to encourage authenticity in your singers. This is a MUST Listen!

    43 min

  6. 08/30/2023

    Finishing Big Projects with John Henny

    In this episode we are joined by the brilliant voice teacher and entrepreneur John Henny. We talk about... Getting started with teaching  Egos Peaks and Valleys Imposter syndrome Show people how you can help them Writing books Pomodoro technique Finishing big projects Investing in yourself Connecting with groups bigger than yourselves Reach John at https://johnhenny.com/ Find more about Sam Johnson at: www.vocalease.net and Aimee Geddes at www.breakthrough-studios.com Find the International Voice Teachers of Mix at: www.ivtom.org Intro and outro theme song: No Qualms. https://asharicrecords.com/studio and Maz Mazak www.mazmazak.com Download past IVTOM conference recordings to catch up on any knowledge you may have missed! www.ivtom.org/events

    30 min

  7. 05/17/2023

    Beyonce, Krysta Rodriguez, and Defining Mix

    Aimee and Sam define Mix in their own way and use Beyonce and Krysta Rodriguez as prime examples.  Highlights include:  What is mix? What is not Mix?  The "Mix Tent"  The 0-10 scale Sam talks about the subtle transitions that happen on every note and how each note can be considered a bridge.  Krysta Rodriguez sings "Safer" and Aimee and Sam analyze her technique and point out how she handles using her mix on the higher notes without falling out.  Beyonce sings "Love on Top" and Sam and Aimee discuss her ability to ascend gradually, gaining intensity without falling out of place.  Really bad singing jokes that Sam and Aimee attempt.  Please like, subscribe and leave a 5 star review wherever you are listening to this! Find more about Sam Johnson at: www.vocalease.net and Aimee Geddes at www.breakthrough-studios.com Find the International Voice Teachers of Mix at: www.ivtom.org Intro and outro theme song:  No Qualms. https://asharicrecords.com/studio and Maz Mazak www.mazmazak.com  Download past IVTOM conference recordings to catch up on any knowledge you may have missed! www.ivtom.org/events

    31 min

  8. 05/10/2023

    Finding Authenticity

    Aimee shares how helping a student use vocal fry and breathiness contributed to getting the student to sound more authentic.  Sam shares ideas on using natural sounds, even UGLY ones, to help students discover sounds that work for them.  The importance of teaching students to listen objectively to the sounds they make and label them without judging.  Awesome funny/ugly faces that students make. Sam and Aimee try to copy! Helping students use anxiety to tap into their character and feel real emotion.  Chip and Joanna Gaines inspired Aimee to strip away the "stuff" covering the voice, and restore the natural beauty just like the couple does with houses on "Fixer Upper."  Why sounding just like Rhianna or Justin Timberlake or Pavoratti is pointless.  Loving your own voice for what it is. Teach your students to do the same.  Please like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review wherever you are listening to this! Find more about Sam Johnson at: www.vocalease.net and Aimee Geddes at www.breakthrough-studios.com Find the International Voice Teachers of Mix at: www.ivtom.org Intro and outro theme song:  No Qualms. https://asharicrecords.com/studio and Maz Mazak www.mazmazak.com  Download past IVTOM conference recordings to catch up on any knowledge you may have missed! www.ivtom.org/events

    31 min
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About

Where voice teachers get ideas and inspiration on how to teach better, industry experts share their secrets and Voice teachers improve every day.

Information

  • Creator
    Sam Johnson and Aimee Geddes
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022
  • Show Website
    The Voice Teacher Podcast