Peter Simpson, Professional NZ
Singer
How is Jo Shanahan different from other Singing Teachers?
About from Jo’s experience as a seasoned contemporary performer, she has the appropriate formal qualifications specifically in the ‘Voice’ and the coaching experience to be able to teach the voice in an individualised, tailored, holistic and supportive way. Jo’s method of teaching is practical, relevant, has a basis in scientific fact resulting in no laryngeal trauma and uses exercises targeting specific, fundamental issues for the singer. She is also available to work closely with ENT specialists when required for singers who are recovering from vocal mis-use / vocal abuse (nodules, polyps).
What principles / technique are covered in the singing lessons?
The longevity of any singer’s career depends on having the skill to consistently deliver quality sound without compromised vocal integrity. You will learn the key components of Rotational Body Placement which comprises correct body alignment for optimal vocal production and control. You will learn to use breathing, projection, palatal choice of resonance and articulation to achieve a more powerful, dynamic sound without using incorrect muscular tension and preserve vocal health while singing more challenging forms of rock / pop. This will allow you to make conscious artistic choices while using your voice in a healthy way!
I’m already a professional singer so why should I take lessons?
Most singers Jo works with have some particular habits that if not corrected can cause problems later in their career. Singing is a skill based largely on muscle memory, and it is easy for singers to develop consistently bad habits during singing or speech that translate into tensions throughout the entire body. Fortunately, muscles can usually ‘relearn’ good habits over time if one perseveres in learning the correct and healthy approach to vocal technique. Jo’s job is to educate the singer and instil good technique and habits that will prevent any physical problems such as nodules polyps, hoarseness or vocal fatigue. Longevity of your voice and maintaining optimum vocal health is paramount if you want your voice and the ‘money / power notes’ to be there EVERY time.
Do you work with all styles of music and levels of singers?
Yes. Proper technique is a must in any style of singing so no harm is done to your voice. Jo works with all levels of singers – the budding young singer (14 years old onwards), absolute beginners, early career singers / semi-professionals and professional performers.
How many lessons will I need to take to get my voice working well?
Lessons are generally held fortnightly. If you have regular lessons, you will experience immediate improvements in some aspect but the key goal is to make these changes consistent. You need to be patient, do the work and give it time – at least one year. Singers are vocal athletics - you will always need your vocal coach in one way or the other just like professional athletics do. On average, singers work with Jo for two years and then return to studio for ‘workouts’ / ‘refreshers’ / further training when needed to make sure they are still reaching their maximum potential (prior to going on tour, laying down vocal tracks for album, commencing an international long-term contract in a Musical Theatre Production).
Is it possible to gain more vocal range in my voice and better vocal quality?
Absolutely! By learning how to not constrict your voice and eliminate incorrect muscle tension, your voice will be freed up immensely!
If I have voice problems like nodules or polyps can they be corrected through voice coaching?
The short answer is yes. However, Jo will assess the extent of your physiological condition and will probably advise you consulting an ENT specialist or your Doctor prior to commencing lessons. Jo has a high standard and part of her professional integrity is being accountable when delivering her coaching services to you - your vocal health is paramount.
About from Jo’s experience as a seasoned contemporary performer, she has the appropriate formal qualifications specifically in the ‘Voice’ and the coaching experience to be able to teach the voice in an individualised, tailored, holistic and supportive way. Jo’s method of teaching is practical, relevant, has a basis in scientific fact resulting in no laryngeal trauma and uses exercises targeting specific, fundamental issues for the singer. She is also available to work closely with ENT specialists when required for singers who are recovering from vocal mis-use / vocal abuse (nodules, polyps).
What principles / technique are covered in the singing lessons?
The longevity of any singer’s career depends on having the skill to consistently deliver quality sound without compromised vocal integrity. You will learn the key components of Rotational Body Placement which comprises correct body alignment for optimal vocal production and control. You will learn to use breathing, projection, palatal choice of resonance and articulation to achieve a more powerful, dynamic sound without using incorrect muscular tension and preserve vocal health while singing more challenging forms of rock / pop. This will allow you to make conscious artistic choices while using your voice in a healthy way!
I’m already a professional singer so why should I take lessons?
Most singers Jo works with have some particular habits that if not corrected can cause problems later in their career. Singing is a skill based largely on muscle memory, and it is easy for singers to develop consistently bad habits during singing or speech that translate into tensions throughout the entire body. Fortunately, muscles can usually ‘relearn’ good habits over time if one perseveres in learning the correct and healthy approach to vocal technique. Jo’s job is to educate the singer and instil good technique and habits that will prevent any physical problems such as nodules polyps, hoarseness or vocal fatigue. Longevity of your voice and maintaining optimum vocal health is paramount if you want your voice and the ‘money / power notes’ to be there EVERY time.
Do you work with all styles of music and levels of singers?
Yes. Proper technique is a must in any style of singing so no harm is done to your voice. Jo works with all levels of singers – the budding young singer (14 years old onwards), absolute beginners, early career singers / semi-professionals and professional performers.
How many lessons will I need to take to get my voice working well?
Lessons are generally held fortnightly. If you have regular lessons, you will experience immediate improvements in some aspect but the key goal is to make these changes consistent. You need to be patient, do the work and give it time – at least one year. Singers are vocal athletics - you will always need your vocal coach in one way or the other just like professional athletics do. On average, singers work with Jo for two years and then return to studio for ‘workouts’ / ‘refreshers’ / further training when needed to make sure they are still reaching their maximum potential (prior to going on tour, laying down vocal tracks for album, commencing an international long-term contract in a Musical Theatre Production).
Is it possible to gain more vocal range in my voice and better vocal quality?
Absolutely! By learning how to not constrict your voice and eliminate incorrect muscle tension, your voice will be freed up immensely!
If I have voice problems like nodules or polyps can they be corrected through voice coaching?
The short answer is yes. However, Jo will assess the extent of your physiological condition and will probably advise you consulting an ENT specialist or your Doctor prior to commencing lessons. Jo has a high standard and part of her professional integrity is being accountable when delivering her coaching services to you - your vocal health is paramount.
