The Intelligent Vocalist

In this episode, John talks with renowned singing teacher, Karyn O'Connor, about the most effective techniques for breathing. For more information about Karyn O'Connor visit https://www.singwise.com Episode highlights: 2:38 - How is breathing for singing different? 10:25 -Getting back to intuitive breathing and what it is. 15:07 - "Support" explained and why we don't want to overthink it. 18:50 - The balance of feeding air to the vocal folds.

In this episode, John talks about what to consider when looking for a vocal coach or singing teacher. It is important to research and ask questions to help you find a teacher that is the right fit for you. Episode Highlights: 2:36 - What is a teaching sweet spot? 6:59 - Why singing is different from teaching other instruments. 10:06 - Key skills a teacher should have. 16:18 - Connection is vital.

In this episode, John discusses confident swagger and how it can help to improve your singing performance. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 1:32 - Singers are front and center, and the challenges involved 5:05 - Where to get your swagger (this may surprise you!) 8:32 - Mastering your vocal instrument 13:14 - Letting go of perfectionism

John talks with "Singing for the Self-Conscious" author, Becky Gilhespie about overcoming fear and discovering the joy of singing. 4:45 - What is Fearless Singing? 10:45 - The number one way to become fearless 13:32 - Recognizing self-sabotage 20:00 - Practice being uncomfortable EPISODE LINKS Becky's Website How to Get Over Performance Nerves

In this episode, John talks with the incredibly talented songwriter and educator Shane Adams.  Shane is on the faculty of Berklee College Of Music, is a Grammy-nominated music educator, an award-winning songwriter, and lectures worldwide.  Here he breaks songwriting down to make it simple and understandable, and he encourages everyone of all ages to start songwriting. If you want to have a career as a singer, learning the craft of songwriting is a way for you to reach and connect to a larger audience, collaborate with other musicians and make extra income.

The creative mind is often a double-edged sword: The ability to dream and create can also lead to indecision and unfulfilled goals. Tracee Theisen-Henny helps creatives, singers, and voice teachers (including her husband, John) eliminate roadblocks and accomplish realistic goals. In this episode, John and Tracee discuss typical challenges creatives face and some of her best tips to refocus and get things done. EPISODE LINKS Contact Tracee at frontdesk@johnhenny.com

In this episode, John discusses what vocal strain is and the difference between vocal intensity and strain. As singers develop and work towards auditions and performance they have to ask for more power from their voices. It is a fine balance of "pressing in" and engagement of the vocal folds. John explains what happens in the voice as singers create robust sounds and how to engage more intensity safely.

Straw phonation can be an excellent warm-up and can help a singer find vocal balance, but at the same time, it should be used within reason as a tool but not relied on as a crutch. In this episode, John discusses arguments for and against using the straw and its role in a singer's vocal development. John also explains some of the vocal science behind the straw and tips on adding it to your singing practice.

In this episode, John speaks with Dr. Reena Gupta on the challenges of singing and performing in this continued pandemic. Dr. Reena Gupta, a specialist in Otolaryngology and the founder of the Center For Vocal Health covers topics such as navigating breakthrough Covid infections as well as Long Covid and the lingering symptoms that some singers experience after having Covid.   EPISODE LINKS: The Singer Summit 2021 Center for Vocal Health

"On Having No Head" by Douglas Harding is a short, concise book that shows a simple method to finding states of open awareness and flow. This state of lowered self-awareness is perfect for creativity and musical performance. In this episode, John discusses singing with "no head" and how to glimpse this place of openness and flow.