Episode 399 - The Edge of Chaos
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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...
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Episode 398 - Knocking Down Vocal Pillars
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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of questioning these ideas while recognizing their inherent value, rather than dismissing them just because they seem outdated or overused.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. ...
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Episode 397 - Honesty in Music
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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....
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Episode 396 - Range and Beyond with Cathal Jack
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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...
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Episode 395 - Slow Down
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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...
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Episode 394 - Reducing Tension
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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...
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Episode 393 - The Enemy Is the Self
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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....
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Episode 392 - The Discipline of Professional Singing with Leigh McRae
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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...
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Episode 391 - The Right Time Never Comes
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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...
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Episode 390 - Don’t Fear the Teacher
The Intelligent Vocalist with John Henny
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....
info_outlineIn 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