The Voice Teacher Podcast

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

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.

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

Summary

E.J. Michaels, lead singer of the band Foreign Figures, shares his journey in the music industry and his experience as a voice coach. He emphasizes the importance of passion, drive, and consistency in pursuing a career in music. Michaels discusses the role of managers and the need for them when an artist's career reaches a point of high demand. He also shares his perspective on reality shows, highlighting the value of auditioning for them but cautioning against relying solely on them for success. In this conversation, EJ Michels and Aimee Geddes discuss the challenges and mental training required to succeed in the music industry. EJ shares his experience as a contestant on The Voice and emphasizes the importance of hard work and perseverance. They also discuss the role of mindset and visualization in overcoming fears and performing at a high level. The conversation highlights the need for self-confidence and self-love in order to connect with audiences and create impactful performances. EJ and Aimee reflect on their own journeys in music and offer advice to aspiring singers.

Takeaways

Passion, drive, and consistency are key in pursuing a career in music. Managers are important when an artist's career reaches a point of high demand. Reality shows can provide a platform for exposure, but they should not be relied upon as the sole path to success. Auditioning for reality shows can be worthwhile, but it's important to have other avenues for growth and development. Building a career in music requires hard work, dedication, and a focus on creating and releasing new music. Success in the music industry requires hard work and perseverance. Mental training, including mindset and visualization, is crucial for overcoming fears and performing at a high level. Self-confidence and self-love are essential for connecting with audiences and creating impactful performances. It's never too late to pursue a career in music and follow your passion.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and E.J. Michaels' Journey in the Music Industry 05:03 Balancing Teaching, Performing, and Writing 08:02 The Need for Balance and Personal Life 12:00 Identifying Potential in Developing Artists 14:55 The Importance of Trusting Your Teacher and Taking Risks 18:04 When to Consider Getting a Manager 21:04 Finding a Good Manager and Evaluating Their Worth 25:48 The Value and Limitations of Reality Shows 32:27 The Realities of the Music Industry 34:47 The Power of Mindset and Visualization 37:41 Self-Confidence and Self-Love 52:42 It's Never Too Late