Episodes
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In this episode, John discusses the importance of singing during uncertain times. Tap into the emotional connection that singing provides, and the power the voice has to heal. John encourages listeners to seize the moment and not let external chaos hinder their passion for singing.
Episode highlights:
The voice is directly connected to emotion. It is the instrument of the soul. It's essential to create boundaries around negative influences like social media. When everything seems out of your control, the way you connect to singing is always in your control.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
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In this episode, John Henny discusses the concept of studying singing through the metaphor of seasons. He describes 'summer' as a time for exploration and growth, where singers can experiment with new techniques and styles. Conversely, 'winter' represents a period of focused mastery, where singers hone in on specific skills and techniques. John emphasizes the importance of transitioning between these seasons to foster continuous growth and development in vocal training.
Episode highlights:
Exploration outside of your usual study and experience can lead to unexpected insights and techniques. Be careful not to stay in ‘summer’ or ‘winter’ for too long. Trust your inner voice to know when to transition seasons.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
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In this episode, John talks with Ariel Bloomer, the lead vocalist for Icon for Hire. Ariel discusses the importance of prioritizing freedom and authenticity over fame in the music industry. She shares her journey of navigating the modern music landscape, emphasizing the significance of genuine connections with fans and the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity. Ariel reflects on her experiences with record labels, the evolution of her music career, and offers advice for aspiring musicians on finding their own path while staying true to themselves.
Episode highlights:
Prioritizing freedom over fame leads to more sustainable results. Building a relationship with fans enhances the music experience. It's important to ask yourself what kind of path you want to make for yourself.To learn more about Ariel Bloomer, go to https://www.instagram.com/arielforhire/ or https://iconforhire.net/
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
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In this episode, John explores the concepts of the hedgehog and the fox as they relate to musicians and singers. He discusses the dichotomy between those who specialize in one area (hedgehogs) and those who are versatile across many styles (foxes). Through examples of iconic musicians, John illustrates how these approaches can influence an artist's career and sound. Reflect on your own musical aspirations and personality traits to determine which approach may suit you best.
Episode highlights:
The hedgehog knows one big thing, while the fox knows many. Your approach to singing should reflect your personality. Understanding whether you're a hedgehog or a fox can guide your vocal journey.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
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In this milestone 400th episode of The Intelligent Vocalist Podcast, John Henny reflects on the journey of the podcast, its impact on listeners, and the importance of an open mindset in exploring vocal techniques and personal growth. He emphasizes the value of understanding the voice, the connection between mind and voice, and the need for continuous exploration and questioning of traditional beliefs in singing and teaching.
Episode highlights:
This podcast has been downloaded 900,000 times. Challenging traditional beliefs can lead to new insights. Listeners have shared that the concepts and resources provided through this podcast have changed their lives.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
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In this episode, John draws from complexity theory to explain how balance between order and chaos is essential for effective, cathartic, and joyful singing and performance. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability, emotional connection, and the joy of singing balanced with the technical aspects of vocal training.
Episode highlights:
Too much order leads to rigidity and can take the joy out of singing. You don't know where the edge is unless you overstep it. The journey of a singer involves navigating between order and chaos.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
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In this episode, John discusses some traditional beliefs and techniques in singing, and emphasizes the importance of questioning these ideas while recognizing their inherent value, rather than dismissing them just because they seem outdated or overused. He encourages us to think like scientists, remaining open to new ideas while respecting the foundations of older vocal concepts.
Episode highlights:
It's healthy to challenge accepted vocal techniques. Mix voice is important but not the only focus in singing. Singing should be a fluid expression, not rigidly defined by techniques.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
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In this episode, John discusses the complexities of honesty in music, particularly in relation to the use of technology like Auto-Tune and pitch correction. He explores the evolution of music manipulation, the pressures faced by modern artists, and the expectations of audiences regarding live performances. John emphasizes the importance of authenticity while acknowledging the changing landscape of the music industry, including the rise of AI-generated music.
Episode highlights:
The evolution of music manipulation has changed expectations in studio recordings and live performances. Modern artists face immense pressure to deliver perfect performances. Audience expectations can conflict with an artist's authenticity.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
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In this episode, John Henny and Cathal Jack discuss the intricacies of vocal range development, addressing common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of strength and tone over volume. They explore the emotional connection in singing, the essence of impactful performances, and the significance of finding one's unique voice. The discussion also touches on the use of accents and language to unlock higher notes, as well as the importance of play in building vocal technique.
Episode highlights:
Trying harder and putting in more effort will not help you reach higher notes. Great singing is more than range. Technique should enhance, not overshadow, a singer's expression.To learn more about Cathal Jack, go to cathaljack.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
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In this episode, John Henny emphasizes the importance of slowing down in vocal practice to foster better development and understanding of one's voice. He discusses the necessity of patience and the value of deliberate practice. John encourages singers to embrace their unique voices, celebrate small progress, and cultivate kindness towards themselves throughout their vocal journey.
Episode highlights:
Patience is crucial in vocal development, regardless of age. Quality of practice is more important than quantity. The taste gap highlights your standards in what you love, and your shortcomings to those standards.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
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In this episode, John discusses the common issue of vocal tension and shares his favorite techniques to reduce it. He emphasizes the importance of understanding phonation threshold pressure, maintaining proper airflow and support, and the role of body alignment and mental relaxation in achieving a balanced singing experience. John also introduces the concept of negative practice and effective imagery as tools to enhance vocal performance and reduce tension.
Episode highlights:
Hydration and SOVT exercises help lower the phonation threshold pressure (PTP) value. Support involves a dynamic relationship between inhalation and exhalation. Flow phonation is about balancing airflow and vocal resistance.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
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In this episode, John Henny explores how the ego and the sense of self can hinder our progress and limit our potential as singers and creatives. It’s important to turn our attention outward and focus on helping others, rather than being self-centered. He also talks about the role of practice in overcoming the self and achieving a state of flow in singing. Dissolve the self and trust in the process of singing in order to experience the highest level of singing.
Episode highlights:
The self doesn’t want failure; it just wants protection. Imposter syndrome is when you make it about you. Trusting in the process and letting go of control can lead to a more authentic and joyful singing experience.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
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In this episode, John Henny interviews Leigh McRae, a 30-year veteran of the music industry as a singer, actor, songwriter, vocal coach and recording artist. They discuss Leigh’s journey as a singer, the influence of his professional experience on his teaching, and the importance of consistent vocal habits and skills. They also touch on the challenges performers face, the impact of the pandemic on singers, and the importance of maintaining vocal health and technique. Leigh shares his daily regimen for vocal maintenance and emphasizes the need for preparation and conditioning in order to achieve consistency in singing.
Episode highlights:
Consistent vocal habits and skills are crucial for successful singers, and they require regular practice and refinement. Performers need to be prepared for the demands of their profession, including the challenges of touring and maintaining vocal health. Maintaining vocal health and technique requires a daily regimen and a mindset of readiness for performance.You can learn more about Leigh McRae at leighmcrae.com and vocalmastery.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
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In this episode, John Henny shares his own experiences of waiting for the right time to work on projects and emphasizes the importance of taking action and starting now. Time is limited, and waiting for the perfect moment is a fantasy. The right time doesn’t exist, and if you wait for that, you’ll never get started.
Episode highlights:
There is never a perfect time to work on your voice, so start now. Successful musicians like the Beatles had a strong work ethic and didn't wait for inspiration or the right time. Even if you can't afford private lessons, there are affordable or free resources available to improve your voice. Time is limited, so make the most of it and appreciate your current circumstances.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
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In this episode, John shares a story of a student who was afraid to bring new information to their teacher. The need for trust and open communication in the student-teacher relationship is especially crucial when it comes to the voice. The role of the teacher is a guide, and it is important to take control of your own voice and education. He encourages students to question their teachers and bring in outside information, while also respecting the expertise and guidance of their teacher.
Episode highlights:
Trust and open communication are essential in the student-teacher relationship. Students should feel comfortable bringing new information and questions to their teacher. It is important to find a teacher who is open to new information and willing to discuss and explore different approaches that align with your vocal needs and 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
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In this episode, John Henny discusses the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in learning to sing, and the potential benefits and challenges of AI. He explains how he uses AI, particularly ChatGPT, to train and have conversations with custom AI models. He also explores the future possibilities of AI in voice teaching and learning. John encourages listeners to embrace AI as a tool for learning and expanding their knowledge.
Episode highlights:
AI has the potential to make focused voice instruction more accessible to a wider audience. The human element and connection in voice teaching will continue to be valuable and sought after, even with the advancements of AI. AI can be a valuable tool for learning and expanding knowledge, but it should be used with caution and critical thinking.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
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In this episode, John shares the story of his mother, who decided to learn piano in her 80s and how it has improved her musical abilities. John emphasizes the importance of audiation skills for singers and how learning a fixed instrument like piano or ukulele can enhance these skills. He also highlights the impact of rhythm and phrasing on vocal performance and the benefits of playing an instrument for singers.
Episode highlights:
Learning an instrument can enhance audiation skills for singers. Rhythm and phrasing are crucial for vocal performance. Playing a fixed instrument like piano or ukulele can improve musicality and musicianship.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
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In this episode, John explains that the spotlight effect is a cognitive bias that leads us to believe that we are being noticed more than we actually are. This can hinder our progress and make us afraid of taking risks and making mistakes. John shares personal experiences from his own life to illustrate the importance of taking risks and embracing failure in order to grow and improve. He encourages us to change our perspective, understand that the fear of failure is unfounded, and invest in ourselves to become better singers.
Episode highlights:
Taking risks and embracing failure are essential for growth and improvement as a singer. Performing in live situations and recording in professional studios provide valuable learning experiences. Investing in ourselves, seeking professional help, and practicing regularly are key to becoming better singers.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
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In this episode, John Henny talks about honoring and nurturing your natural gifts in singing. We need both natural talent and hard work to achieve success in singing. John shares examples of singers with natural ability who have also put in the work to develop their skills, and he encourages singers to embrace their unique gifts and work hard to refine and share them with others.
Episode highlights:
Natural talent alone is not enough to achieve success in singing; hard work and training are also necessary. Singers with natural ability should not take their gifts for granted and should work even harder to refine their skills. Developing a strong work ethic is crucial for singers who may not have natural talent but can surpass others through dedication and effort. Artistry in singing is not just about having a perfect voice; it also involves developing one's unique gifts and using them to create meaningful music.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
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In this episode, John Henny discusses the uniqueness of each voice, and encourages singers to reflect on why they sing and what brings them joy. He explores the concept of limitations and how to work within them while following your natural gifts. Be honest, and check in regularly with yourself about what truly makes you happy as a singer.
Episode highlights:
Reflect on why you sing and what brings you joy in order to stay motivated. Recognize and work within your limitations as a singer. Focus on a narrow lane of expertise and develop your natural gifts. Regular self-reflection is important to understand what truly makes you happy as a singer.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
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