Hi, I’m Kathy!
A Singing and Voice Coach based in Manchester. My current client base ranges from Professional Singers, Signed Artists, Singer-Songwriters, West End and Touring Performers as well as Students and Industry beginners, right the way through to Public Speakers, Influencers, Actors, Lawyers and Business Personnel.
My ongoing, supported research enables me to educate my clients on the anatomy of the voice through training, allowing them to create an extensive toolbox of sounds safely whilst addressing any underlying issues; most commonly vocal fatigue/loss, ‘breaks’ in the voice, tension, loss/reduction of range, breath control, projection…
My own personal background in performance (UK Tours, World Cruises, Session Singing/Studio recording, Musical Theatre, Jazz and Function Bands) ensures a focus on performance and delivery, as well as audition preparation…something we all know can be a nerve wracking time!!!
Coaching for Voice Users
There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to singing and the voice. Everyone has a slightly different learning style and technique and it is my job, as a coach, to help you grow and develop vocally using an approach and technique which suits YOU!
Research and Training
Whilst under going professional training at Drama School many years ago, I found myself being able to create certain sounds on one day, however 24 hours later, not be able to hit the notes or experiencing difficulties or a change of tone. Upon questioning this, I was met with a very vague response with no scientific back up! Unable to accept this (admittedly I was a slightly stubborn student) I went on to spend 10 years exploring the anatomy of the voice via scoping, courses, research and training in many different techniques. Courses and research in techniques and ideologies such as The Accent Method, SLS, Primal Sound, SOVT work, Estill Method as well as my own Youth Classical background have given me a fine tuned understanding anatomically and practically of the voice, as well as the ability to create a safe technique and style to suit the individuals learning needs.
By understanding the anatomy of the voice, I am able to give my clients a toolbox of resources which enables them to create any desired sound safely, which they can take away so they are able to continuously develop and put these into practise without relying on the sessions.
Neuro-Linguistic Programming
As a Certified Neuro-Linguistic Pratitioner, I have enhanced my studies into the realms of Coaching for Performance, researching techniques and ideas used by Presenters and Public Speakers to incorporate my anatomy training with Performance Coaching. This has allowed me to create a pathway for Voice Users to ensure a strong, reliable, clear voice via anatomy and technique training whilst addressing nerves, stage fright and all the worries and anxieties surrounding public speaking and performance which can cause voice distortions.
Ethos
As a coach, my aim is to create a personal, friendly and relaxed environment so you feel safe to experiment with new ideas and sounds. Although the lessons are specific in length, I try to encourage my clients to stay in touch between sessions to ensure constant development…I would never want a client to come across a question or sticking point in their understanding /technique and have to wait until the next session to address it….a simple voice note can usually clarify the issue within minutes (and it is always great to know my clients are putting the techniques learnt into practise!)
Areas of Self-Development
As with any industry, new research and information is always being published, therefore I like to share my research and personal aims with my clients so they know I too am continually developing.
I have a strong interest in Vocal Rehabilitation with which I am currently studying to work towards becoming BAPAM (British Association for Performing Arts Medicine) certified, alongside observing Laryngeal Manipulation and massage techniques to further my understanding and research into the voice.
I am currently engaged in further research and studies regarding Mindset and Performance. This is something which has great implications on voice users and I feel should be integrated into Coaching to ensure a solid foundation on which Vocal Work can be established.
““I could not be more thrilled with the improvement in my voice since I first began working with Kathy. Our sessions over a few short months have already given me the confidence and ability to perform live as a solo artist, which is something I never thought possible before. Kathy has an inspirational work ethic and is the most professional and knowledgeable person I’ve ever worked with in music. Her passion and enthusiasm is obvious in every lesson, and this always creates a fun, productive atmosphere. She helps me to understand the purpose behind all vocal exercises, and I’m progressing all the time, which is a powerful positive feeling. Kathy is an exceptional coach!”
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