What Next, Fair Singer?

The return to your singing.

When the Voice Calls You Back.

Sometimes we sing again not because we feel ready, but because something deeper is calling—a longing to reconnect with the voice.

There’s a quiet moment—often unexpected—when the pull toward singing resurfaces. It might arrive while clearing out a cupboard or listening absentmindedly to a recording. You find yourself humming again, or wondering where your sheet music went, or trying to remember how that phrase used to feel when it soared from your throat without thought or fear. Sometimes, that’s all it takes. A musical fragment, a conversation, a memory—and you realise you miss it.

Perhaps singing was once a regular joy for you. Or maybe you’d only just begun before life swept you elsewhere. Many returning adult singers find the idea of coming back both exciting and daunting…Either way, the idea of returning to classical singing can feel daunting. The voice is personal. It reveals where we are, not just technically but emotionally. And if it’s been a while, the inner critic can grow fierce before a single note is sung.

But here’s the thing: you don’t need to be polished to begin again. In fact, the act of returning is the beginning.

“We do not need to arrive already fully formed. That’s not the deal. The process is the thing—the willingness to turn up again, to feel awkward again, to trust again.”
— Little Soprano, “Making You a Better Singer: The Process”
Read the full post

A Place to Begin Again

If that idea resonates with you, you may find kindred encouragement inside Virtually Vocalise, the online membership I lead for thoughtful adult classical singers. It isn’t a quick fix or a flashy shortcut. It’s a place to be met just as you are, to explore your voice with care and direction, and to learn not only from your own singing but from listening to others. We show up weekly. We grow together. Slowly, and surely.

Something to Sing Into

Or—you may be looking for song inspiration, and I can help with that too. Why not dip your creative toes into a resource I created for exactly this moment: The Thoughtful Singer’s Repertoire Guide. It’s a carefully crafted offering for those who are ready to find their way back into vocal study—but want to do so gently, realistically, and with repertoire that makes musical and emotional sense.It’s not a giveaway, it’s a purposeful tool for singers seeking clarity..

“Repertoire should serve the singer, not the other way around. Just because a piece exists doesn’t mean it’s right for you right now…”
— Little Soprano, “On the Question of Vocal Repertoire”
Read the full post

The guide includes a clickable playlist, a print-friendly version, and thoughts on how to know if a song is really working for you. It’s available to purchase now—a gentle way to re-enter the world of singing with confidence and clarity.

September’s Gentle Invitation

And if you’re ready for something in-person, I’ve planned two beautiful days in Winsham, Somerset, this September (14–15 September). The Vocal Refresh offers a small and intimate group of singers the chance to focus on vocal technique. Then on Sunday, The Singer’s Journey opens its doors in the beautiful acoustic of The Jubilee Hall, inviting singers to explore repertoire in a masterclass setting, with space for observers to come and soak up the learning too.

If you’d like to attend, apply soon, places will be limited and applications close on 1 August. With summer holidays often claiming the calendar, applying early means you’ll have space to prepare well, receive thoughtful guidance from me in advance, and arrive at the weekend feeling relaxed, ready, and supported. You’ll also find the event details on the Voice School Portal Noticeboard. 

So if the question is “What next, fair singer?”, then this may be your answer. If a full weekend feels too much for now, you might simply begin by coming to observe a session or two.

Your Next Note

If you’re feeling a little unsure, that’s entirely natural. But if your singing instincts are stirring, now is a very good time to act on them. There are quiet, supportive next steps waiting for you, whichever direction you choose.

And if you're not quite sure where to begin, The Thoughtful Singer’s Repertoire Guide is a very good place to start.