What types of singing coaching do you offer?

I offer 1:1 coaching for performers, whether you are a recent graduate, returning to the industry, or looking to strengthen your existing skills. Sessions focus on both vocal technique and audition preparation, helping you develop a confident, versatile singing voice for musical theatre, West End, tours, and other professional opportunities.

Can I book an online session if I don’t live in Birmingham?

Yes. I offer both in-person lessons at my home studio just outside Birmingham city centre and online sessions, allowing performers across the UK and internationally to benefit from professional vocal coaching.

How do I book a singing lesson?

Sessions can be booked via the contact form on my website or by emailing me directly at ashley@thebirminghamvocalcoach.co.uk. You can choose a 30-minute, 45-minute, or 1-hour session. There is no obligation to book more than one session at a time.

What is the cost of your singing lessons?

Sessions are priced at £75 per hour. Recent graduates who have completed full-time training within the last year are eligible for a discounted rate of £55 per hour.

Do I need to have a certain level of experience to book a session?

All clients are trained performers who have completed full-time professional training and are motivated to continue developing their singing. Lessons are tailored to your experience, goals, and the demands of your chosen performance path.

Where is your Birmingham studio located?

My studio is located just outside Birmingham city centre, approximately a 15-minute drive from the centre. There is also a nearby train station within walking distance, with direct trains into Birmingham, making access convenient for both local and visiting performers.

What makes your coaching different from other vocal coaches in Birmingham?

I combine professional insight from my experience on college audition panels and as a pianist with a current, in-depth understanding of vocal pedagogy. This allows me to provide performers with both technical vocal development and practical strategies to succeed in auditions and performance settings.

Can you help performers prepare for auditions?

Absolutely. I specialise in audition coaching for musical theatre, cruise ship shows, tours, and West End opportunities. Lessons focus on song selection, panel expectations, performance technique, and building the confidence needed to impress audition panels.

Do you offer workshops for dance schools or colleges?

Yes. While my primary focus is 1:1 coaching for performers, I also deliver workshops for dance schools to help students prepare for college singing auditions. These workshops draw on my experience on audition panels and provide tailored guidance for young performers.

How do I know if your coaching is right for me?

If you are a performer who has graduated from full-time professional training and want to strengthen your vocal technique, audition skills, or overall performance confidence, my coaching is designed for you. Each session is personalised to your voice, goals, and professional aspirations.

What can I expect from a typical coaching session?

Each session is tailored to your goals and priorities. Depending on your needs, we may focus on technique, repertoire, audition preparation, or other aspects of your singing. The content of each session is flexible, ensuring it meets your specific objectives and supports your growth as a performer.

Your Voice, Your Way: Vocal Coaching Tips for Recent Musical Theatre Graduates

Ashley Turner
Sep 11
3 min read

Updated: Sep 12

Graduating from musical theatre college is an exciting milestone, but stepping into your first professional roles can be challenging. Many graduates quickly discover that what worked in training doesn’t always translate directly to auditions, rehearsals, or performance schedules.

One of the most common hurdles? Vocal coaching that doesn’t feel tailored to your voice.

At its core, great vocal coaching isn’t about following a rigid set of techniques or copying someone else’s voice — it’s about helping you explore, discover, and develop your unique voice. Whether you’re preparing for auditions, eight-show weeks, or recording sessions, your vocal coach should be guiding you, not giving one-size-fits-all instructions.

1. Why “One-Size-Fits-All” Techniques Don’t Always Work

It’s normal to try a vocal technique that feels awkward or simply doesn’t support your voice. Everyone’s instrument is different, and what works for one singer may not work for another. Frustration often comes from repeating exercises or techniques that don’t fit your voice or style.

Not every technique works for every voice — the key is finding what actually supports you.

A student-centred approach focuses on identifying what works for you, allowing you to sing with confidence and consistency. This is particularly important in musical theatre, where roles and expectations demand versatility and stamina.

2. Exploring Material Together

Your voice is unique, and every song has its own story. A great vocal coach helps you explore repertoire in a way that uncovers your natural strengths, rather than simply instructing you on what to do.

By experimenting, reflecting, and adjusting together, you develop a deeper connection with the material. This approach builds not only your technique but also your artistic expression — an essential skill for auditions and live performance.

Finding your voice in the song isn’t always obvious, but exploring it with guidance helps you unlock your full potential.

3. Building Long-Term Tools for Career Growth

The most valuable part of student-centred coaching isn’t just preparing you for a single performance — it’s giving you tools that last. These include:

• Techniques tailored to your voice and style.

• Practical strategies for audition preparation and performance stamina.

• Confidence-building exercises for consistent vocal health.

By focusing on long-term growth, you’re not just learning songs; you’re preparing your voice for a professional career. These tools help you handle demanding schedules, multiple performances, and the unpredictable challenges of the musical theatre industry.

4. Choosing the Right Vocal Coach

When looking for a coach in the UK, graduates should consider:

• Student-centered approach: Do they adapt techniques to your voice?

• Style expertise: Can they guide you in musical theatre specifically?

• Experience and results: Have they helped singers successfully audition or perform professionally?

• Rapport and comfort: Do you feel understood, supported, and motivated?

A great coach combines technical knowledge, real-world experience, and the ability to empower you to find your own voice.

Tip: Try an introductory session to see how well the coach’s approach aligns with your learning style.

In Conclusion

Your voice is unique, and your vocal coaching should be too. By working with a coach who helps you explore repertoire, find techniques that suit your instrument, and build long-term tools for your career, you can approach auditions and performances with confidence.

If you’re a recent graduate, want to take your voice and performance to the next level and interested in working with me, drop me an email to book a session and discover how a student-centred approach can help you unlock your full potential.

Book here

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