While mastering vocal technique is crucial for great singing, I’ve found that vocal technique alone does not automatically translate to confidence in singing. Confidence builds through small steps, exposure, learning to be self compassionate, reassuring the voices within. I believe that combining vocal coaching with confidence-building work is essential for most singers. Enabling you to not only sound better but also feel more assured and allow yourself to evolve gently over time.
The Intersection of Vocal Training and Confidence
20 years ago my personal challenges with performance confidence led me to study and become certified in NLP, Hypnotherapy, and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). These techniques, coupled with the practice of gradual exposure, were instrumental in my performance evolution and that of my clients. Consistent small steps can lead to significant change. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming, it can be fun!
This exposure will likely start with singing in front of one person (maybe your vocal coach), or recording your voice, singing at home where you might be heard, then perhaps singing at karaoke with some friends or performing at a local super friendly folk club, then the open mic nights begin then having a spot at the open mic night etc. etc. And it continues. Through our sessions we start to make ‘the unfamiliar familiar’ following the pace of your heart. Confidence is situational – you can’t expect to be confident in an unfamiliar situation immediately, no one is! It’s a journey that unfolds over time.
Understanding the Role of Self-Compassion
We must learn to nurture self-compassion and reassure the inner voice that demands perfection throughout this time. Perhaps that inner voice tells you that ‘you’re taking up too much space’, or fears you’re sounding bad or being judged. It’s your job to learn to reassure that part of you. I personally studied IFS with 2 wonderful coaches for around 5 years which was very helpful. This method in it’s lightest form, used within coaching can be very helpful for singers.
Primal Soul Voicework®: Embracing Freedom in Sound
Primal soul voicework® is an approach I’ve developed over 20+ years to help singers experience freedom in their sound-making and fall in love with their unique voices. This method encourages you to explore and accept the full range of your vocal expression. I would love to share this practise with you. When you work with me you are encouraged to share your Primal soul voicework® practise with me, whether it’s daily, weekly or monthly via our shared online portal. This is the way to find and free your brilliant, bold, beautiful voice.
Role Play for Performance Enhancement
For those who are already performing but struggling with their confidence. One of my favourite techniques is a simple yet effective role-play exercise. Years ago, while performing in showcases and being filmed amidst industry professionals, I started to practise technique that was shared with me within my NLP training.
‘Stepping into the Shoes‘ of a Singer You Admire‘ Exercise
- Choose Your Singer
Pick a singer you admire, it could be someone very well known or someone you know, someone whose confidence and stage presence you admire. - Step into Their Shoes
Imagine yourself inside their body as they perform—seeing through their eyes, feeling the feelings the are experiencing as they sing, feel their confidence pulsing through your body. - Positive Role Play
Practise this for 5 minutes every night. - Notice
Notice how this transforms your own performance.
Embarking on Your Journey
Whether it’s through primal soul voicework® or the positive role-play exercise the key is to start small and get stronger and stronger over time. As we work together, we’ll explore these methods and many more.
If you’d like someone on your team who supports both your voice and your confidence, reach out — I’d love to walk this journey with you.
