The Intelligent Vocalist

In this episode, John talks with Susan Lowell de Solórzano about the concept of biotensegrity and its application to singing. Susan shares her personal experience with biotensegrity and how it changed her approach to singing. She emphasizes the importance of balancing tension and relaxation in singing, and explores the use of metaphors and imagery to enhance vocal performance. Episode highlights: Biotensegrity is a framework for understanding biology using the principles of tensegrity. Fascia is a connective tissue that interlinks and holds the body together. Balancing tension and relaxation is crucial in singing. Metaphors and imagery can be used to enhance vocal performance. To learn more about Susan, visit https://www.youtube.com/@smlbtarchive and get her book at https://a.co/d/2fWhjV9 To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses the importance of vocal values and how they can shape your success as a singer. He emphasizes the difference between what is within your control and what is not, and encourages focus on the things that are within your control as defined by your values. Episode highlights: Focus on what is within your control and accept what is not. Identify and prioritize your personal vocal values. Consistent study and application of knowledge are crucial for improvement. Push through fear and judgment to achieve your singing goals. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with tenor, pedagogue and researcher Nicholas Perna about the topic of voice issues and the stigma surrounding them in the singing community. They discuss the concept of technique shaming, how singers often blame themselves for vocal struggles, and highlight the complexity of singing and the various factors that can affect the voice, emphasizing the need for understanding and support. Episode highlights: Voice issues are common among singers and can be caused by various factors unrelated to technique. Blaming singers for their vocal struggles is unfair and unhelpful. The singing community should provide support and understanding to those experiencing voice issues. Singers should seek help from professionals, such as otolaryngologists and speech language pathologists, and not hesitate to share their struggles with trusted individuals. To learn more about Nicholas Perna, visit https://nicholasperna.com/ and https://www.vocalfri.com/ To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses his top strategies for optimizing the voice. He emphasizes the importance of simplifying the singing process and breaking it down to first principles. Episode highlights: Simplify the singing process by focusing on air, cord, and vowel (ACV). Practice efficient breathing and maintain a tall posture. Use narrow vowels and semi-occluded vocal tract exercises to optimize the voice for different registers and styles. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with top voice-over artist Liz Hill as she discusses her experience with freelance work and how it has changed her life. Liz highlights the advantages that singers have in voiceover work, as their vocal training and skills are easily transferable. She shares her journey of starting out in freelancing, the potential for income in this field, and her new venture of creating courses and training content to help others get started in freelancing. Episode highlights: Freelance work, particularly in voiceover, can be a lucrative source of income for singers. Singers have an advantage in voiceover work due to their vocal training and ability to connect emotionally with the audience. Starting out in freelancing may require charging lower rates initially, but as skills improve, rates can be increased. Creating courses and training content can be a valuable way to share knowledge and help others succeed in freelancing. To learn more about Liz Hill, visit https://www.freelancebff.com/ To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John discusses how to deal with changing information in the field of singing. Information needs to change and evolve, but it’s important to start with simpler and bigger chunks of information in the beginning of one's singing journey. Episode highlights: Don't fall for the advertising trope that claims everything you know about singing is wrong. Focus on the basics and foundational concepts before diving into more esoteric topics. Be cautious of misinformation and clickbait in the singing industry. Continuously seek knowledge and information that works for you at your current stage. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John interviews Karin Titze Cox and Ingo Titze about their book 'Voices Free After SOVT.' They discuss the groundbreaking approach to voice and the importance of semi-occluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTs). Episode highlights: Having that back pressure helps the vocal folds maintain a more stable and a more efficient posture for vibration. Getting the motor memory from SOVTs is a very individual system. Do a lot of practice, and do variable practice. Don’t resist resistance. To learn more about Karin Titze Cox and Ingo Titze, and to get the book, visit https://ncvs.org/book-purchase-voice-is-free-after-sovt/ To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Dani Elliott as she shares her journey as a backup vocalist and provides insights into the challenges and rewards of touring. Episode highlights: Building a community and making connections is crucial for success as a backup vocalist. Taking care of mental and physical health is essential while on tour. Preparation, professionalism, and being a good hang are qualities that set successful artists apart. To learn more about Dani Elliott, visit http://www.danielliott.com/ To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks about what he would say to his younger self, inspired by Ian Howell’s book “Advice for Young Musicians.” Episode highlights: It’s ok to no longer want what you thought you did before. Permanence is an illusion. Don’t let the need of others’ approval take you off the path. Be present. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John shares his New Year’s resolutions and his approach to make sure he follows through with them. Episode highlights: Making resolutions just once at the beginning of the year isn’t enough. You need strategies to build a habit, which then becomes a routine. Having accountability is crucial. To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com