Recently i was asked by Cambridge Visual and Performing Arts College (where i've worked for 10 years) to do a 'Know Me Interview'. See below...

Strictly business

How would you describe your day job to a child?

Singing and having fun!

What does a typical day look like for you and what are you currently working on?

A typical day for me is Vocal Coaching singers at CSVPA or at my home in Cambridge. I am training in Complete Vocal Technique (based in Copenhagen), and i coach singers as well as public speakers. I also teach workshops on various elements of the voice, confidence building with the voice and – Complete Vocal Technique. I’m currently writing a Public Speaking workshop aimed at big businesses.

What three words would you use to describe your role?

Fun, Confidence, freedom

If you could switch jobs with someone, who would it be?

I wouldn’t change it for the world - I love my job!

What is your biggest professional challenge?

Working with singers who have already decided I can’t help them! Breaking down psychological barriers in order to create development is sometimes the biggest challenge. But I'm also trained to tackle these issues.

If you could change one thing about working here, what would it be?

I’m very happy with my job and I love my students right now – they're all super enthusiastic and willing. I would have more on the food menu at lunchtime;)

What do you like most about your job?

My job is so rewarding as I get to help people develop their voice. I get to help them free their voice. And for some this can be a huge deal psychologically, and very emotional. The voice is so personal, and music can be too, so I really get to make a difference to people's lives. I get to help singers build their confidence and get onto the stage or record their voice. I help people face their fears, which is amazing. I’m so fortunate!

What advice would you give to a new starter?

Taking the first step into a singing lesson is always the hardest part. It can make you feel extremely vulnerable. And many people choose not to attend based on this feeling. Thats why i ask my students to write a testimonial. As being brave enough to face this fear takes a lot of guts, and hearing someone else say that it will be ok creates a sense of TRUST. And TRUST is the first step to any singing journey.

What’s the worst job you’ve ever had, and what did you learn from it?

Kitchen Porter when I was 15. What did I learn – its always about the people you work with. And you should always change that if it doesn’t feel good.

What’s a mistake you made early on in your career, and what did you learn from it

I took a lot of risks when I was in London trying to make it as a singer! I learnt that you need to be in charge of your own destiny and career path. I learnt not to expect others to ‘make it happen’ for me. I learnt to take small steps to build a sustainable career, rather than expecting some sort of magic to happen.

What led you to this career?

Oh I could get deep here! I used the voice as a means of expression during my childhood, and I've continued with this ever since. Trying to find my own voice, led me to help others find theirs. It’s a bit like a therapy for me.

What’s the biggest misconception people have about your position?

That you can’t learn to sing. That people are born with talent. This is a myth and is damaging to anyone wanting to sing.

What do you do to turn things around when you’re having a bad day?

I always try and understand people and also myself. I try and understand the reasons why we feel the way we do. When you realise that there’s always a reason and you can find that reason – you can be more forgiving and understanding of yourself and others.

What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?

That - I am in control of how I feel. I learnt this on a mental health course run by a friend of a friend. Its called Thrive. And it made a huge difference to my life and my thinking. Rob Kelly is his name. So thank you Rob.

What’s the best professional compliment you’ve ever received?

Now I'm trained in Complete Vocal Technique (or almost – 3 more seminars to go) I get compliments all the time. Its been completely life changing for me.

About you

What is your motto or personal mantra?

Anyone can sing

Given a chance, who would you like to be for a day?

Mariah Carey – just to do that whistle tone!!

What is your guilty pleasure?

Gin!

If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why?

‘Why Singing Saved My Life’ - because singing has been everything for me, and I feel I could write my life story around this.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

I’ve done 30 parachute jumps, and I'm 40 years old (but look 30!)

What’s something you saw recently that made you smile?

A 72 year old man finding his voice in my kitchen, and finding his confidence – BEST MOMENT

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Pop star, Ice Skater, Forensic Scientist - I know!! All at different times!

Are you a dog person or a cat person (or neither)?

Dog – my puppy is sitting on my bed now!

What is your hidden talent?

Dancing! I did a lot of street jazz dancing when I was younger. I can still crack out a move!

If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?

Flying. It would make travel easier and more economic.

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick?

Complete Vocal Technique, Shazam, Spotify!!

What’s the top destination on your must-visit list?

I’d love to goto New Zealand next!

What’s your most used emoji?

The singing emoji or hearts

If you were the only human left on Earth, what would you do?

Try and find other humans anyway

What’s one totally irrational fear that you have?

Wasps – comes from a childhood sting. But I think I'm pretty good at controlling it. But I will not have one land on my face, as my best friend does to show me not to be scared!