A Program to Support and Empower a Community of Freelance Singing Teachers
Overview
Following a decade of steady growth, Vocal Balance, founded by Julie Gossage and Richard Halton, grew from a respected private coaching studio into a flourishing vocal methodology. In 2023, they launched their first one-year teacher training programme with a mission to support up-and-coming vocal coaches not just in technique, but in carving out sustainable, thriving freelance careers trained in the Vocal Balance approach.
Julie approached Andy Dunn to design and deliver a dedicated module focused on preparing teachers for the practicalities, mindset, and self-belief needed to flourish as a freelance singing teacher.
Over the course of the project, we co-created a learning module grounded in industry realities and personal experience—balancing creative inspiration with tangible business tools. Working closely with Julie and Richard, we shaped content to complement the pedagogical side of the training, focusing on real-world freelance readiness.
Key Insight:
“A mission to build a vibrant, supportive community of singing teachers”
Our Partnership in Action
Creative Confidence
Helping participants recognise and grow their confidence over time. We addressed common emotional hurdles such as imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and fear of visibility—while encouraging authenticity and experimentation outside of comfort zones.
Marketing and Promotion
Supporting teachers to develop their personal brand as a coach, clarify their USP and understand how to reach their ideal clients through different promotional strategies.
Pricing and Value
Equipping teachers with frameworks to price their services with confidence, test different approaches and find a balance between ambition and market realities.
Financial Literacy and Small Business Thinking
Introducing the mindset and tools of a creative entrepreneur—from income planning to budgeting to understanding how to make strategic, long-term decisions for their business.
Creative Process
Andy collaborated closely with Vocal Balance to create a targeted training module based on practical, real-world freelancing experience. The comprehensive approach included:
1. Co-creation
With industry experts.
We worked closely with Julie and Richard to tailor the module for the unique dynamics of the performing arts world, while aligning with the ethos of the Vocal Balance methodology.
2. Lived Experience
Andy drew on over 12 years of freelance experience from the creative and coaching sectors, helping to translate big ideas into relatable, real-life strategies.
3. Discovery
Prior to delivery, we gathered insight from participants about their needs, hopes, and anxieties, which informed the tone and content of the sessions to ensure relevance and resonance.
“Working with Andy brought a whole new dimension to our training programme. He speaks the language of creatives while offering clear, structured tools that demystify the freelance journey. Our teachers left the module feeling uplifted, informed, and ready to step into their careers with confidence.”
Impact
Increased teacher confidence and improved ability to articulate their value to potential clients.
Teachers reported enhanced profitability and greater comfort with market-driven pricing.
A significant increase in effective self-marketing activities, resulting in expanded client bases and professional networks.
Strengthened professional identity and resilience among freelance singing teachers.
Conclusion
The module has become a cornerstone of the Vocal Balance teacher training programme, helping participants feel more empowered, informed, and optimistic about building a life and livelihood as a vocal coach. Teachers left the session with greater clarity about their unique offering, practical tools for getting started, and a stronger sense of belonging within a community of peers.
Feedback highlighted the blend of emotional encouragement and grounded business advice as both refreshing and essential.