Alexa delves into Style Vs Technique with Kaya Herstad-Carney. A Norwegian powerhouse based in the UK since ’99, Kaya is a singer, songwriter, and vocal coach. From Royal Variety Show to festival directing, she blends creativity and technique. Join us to unravel the secrets behind her success in artist development and vocal education. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Balance is Key: Effective singing instruction involves finding the delicate equilibrium between style and technique. While technique provides the foundational skills for vocal health and control, encouraging individual style fosters uniqueness and emotional connection in singing.
• Technique Foundations: Prioritise the establishment of strong vocal fundamentals. Teach proper breathing, vocal exercises, and posture to ensure students have a solid technical base. This enables them to explore various styles with a foundation of control and strength.
• Expressive Stylistic Elements: Guide students in understanding the stylistic nuances of different genres. Encourage the exploration of varied vocal tones, articulations, and phrasing while ensuring that these stylistic choices are built upon a foundation of solid vocal technique.
• Adaptability: Emphasise the importance of adapting technique to suit different styles. What works well in classical singing might not translate seamlessly into contemporary or jazz styles. Encourage students to be versatile and open to adjusting their technique based on the demands of the chosen style.
• Individualised Approach: Recognize and celebrate each student’s unique voice and style. Tailor teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and help students discover their own expressive strengths. A personalised approach fosters a positive and supportive environment for growth in both style and technique.

BEST MOMENTS 

‘Good vocal techniques are the ability to create the notes that you hear in your heart and your head’

‘Style is the artistic lengths of which we deliver the song depending on the genre’

‘Finding a good balance between style and technique is about not compromising either’ 

‘Technique is second to the emotional release of the style’ 

EPISODE RESOURCES 

Guest Website:

• kayamusic.com

Social Media:

• @kayamusic

Relevant Links & Mentions: 

• Artists mentioned: Cher; George Ezra; Billie Eilish; Kelly Clarkson; Christina Aguilera; Shakira
• (Podcast) Singing Teachers Talk Podcast: Ep.142 How to Sing and Teach Gospel with Mark De-Lisser
• British GQ Magazine interview with George Ezra
• The work of Ken Bozeman & Ian Howell 
• (Podcast) Singing Teachers Talk Podcast: Ep.143 Navigating the Music Industry with VocalizeU’s Big Billy Clark & Elliott O’Connor
• Waterbear – The College of Music
• Kerrie Obert
• (Podcast) Singing Teachers Talk Podcast: Ep. 59 Top Tongue Tips For Boosting High Frequency Energy with Kerrie Obert 
• BBC Masterclass with Christina Aguilera

BAST Book A Call

ABOUT THE GUEST 

Kaya, a versatile artist from Norway, has called the UK home since ’99. Her extensive career spans original music, vocal coaching, and artist development. As an established performer, she’s graced The Royal Variety Show and the BBC Songwriting Showcase. Kaya’s passion extends to mentoring, directing festivals, and teaching popular music subjects. A harmony enthusiast, vocal arranger, and festival director, she serves as the Director of Education for Vocology in Practice, training singing teachers globally. With roles at Waterbear and esteemed institutions, Kaya specialises in singing, songwriting, motivation, and artist development.