The Manchester Vocal Coach

Over the last few weeks, many of my clients will have noticed that I’ve taken some time away from teaching. Sadly, my dearest friend, mentor, and practically a family member, Gary Willis, passed away.

I first met Gary when I was 16 years old and a student on the Musical Theatre course at Pendleton College. Looking back, it is impossible to overstate the impact he had on my life. Without Gary’s belief in me, I would never have gone to drama school, pursued a career as a performer, or ultimately found my passion as a vocal coach helping the next generation of artists.

Gary had an extraordinary gift for seeing potential in people long before they could see it in themselves. He was endlessly supportive, generous with his time, and always knew exactly what advice was needed, whether it was about performing, teaching, or life itself.

Over the last 20 years, our relationship grew far beyond that of teacher and student. We became great friends, and an honorary family member. He stood beside me as my best man at my wedding, celebrated life’s highs with me, and supported me through its challenges.

The performing arts community has lost a truly remarkable educator, mentor, and advocate. I have lost one of my closest friends.

While words can never fully express how much I miss him, I will always be grateful for the lessons he taught me, the opportunities he gave me, and the unwavering belief he had in me. Every student I teach carries a small part of his legacy, because so much of what I do today was inspired by him.

Thank you, Gary, for everything.

You will be missed more than you could ever know.

❤️

A fantastic CPD training event put on by about TMJ disorder. Some really interesting points and thoughts to take forward. 🗣️

🌟🌟 CLIENT SUCCESS 🌟🌟

A huge congratulations to who is currently touring the UK in the fantastic . Catch it before it closes!

Fantastic work buddy!

Calling all instrumental and vocal teachers 🚨

There's only a few days left to take our 2026 Teachers' Fees Survey! Don't miss out on contributing to this valuable tool.

Take the survey today ⬇️
https://www.ism.org/ism-teachers-fees-survey-2026/

❤️ Flicking through our wedding photos and just adore this picture captured of Aria and me.

She loves music (good job being in this family)! My repertoire of nursery rhythms on piano is now extensive 😂

🗣️ Happy World Voice Day 2026 🗣️

Nobody talks about this enough. 👇

You’ve been performing for years. You’ve got the gigs, the experience, the catalog.

So why does the thought of taking a singing lesson feel like a threat?

Because somewhere along the way, we convinced ourselves that asking for help means we weren’t that good to begin with.

It doesn’t.

The best athletes in the world still have coaches. The most decorated performers still have vocal directors. Growth doesn’t stop when the bookings start.

If any of these fears hit close to home — save this post. Share it with a singer who needs to hear it.

You don’t have to choose between being established and getting better. You get to be both. 🎤

PENDING…….. Exciting things are happening at The Manchester Vocal Coach HQ. Later this year we are moving house meaning a brand new home studio! Lots of works happening and not finished yet but I thought I’d share a few progress pictures. R x

Train where theatre is made🎭️

Hope Mill Theatre Arts is launching in 2026—offering a new BA (Hons) Musical Theatre Performance course, rooted in real industry experience at Hope Mill Theatre!

Join our Open Day to experience the training, meet the faculty, and explore your next step✨️

🗓️ 19th April 2026 11 – 1pm
🎟️ https://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/event/hmta-open-day/