Vocal Coach with a Bachelor's Degree in Popular Music Performance at BIMM London

Find out more about Goda

• 1) When did you first develop a passion for music and your favourite instrument?

  I developed a passion for music at a very young age. I always found myself drawn to the sounds of melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. I began learning music formally in a music school when I was 6 years old. As for my favourite instrument, my voice is my true instrument. As a singer, my voice allows me to express emotions and tell stories that resonate with others. But beyond that, I have a deep appreciation for the piano, which I find fundamental in understanding music theory and composition.

• 2) Is there a particular type of music or artist that you listen to on a loop without it driving you crazy?

  I love listening to soul and jazz artists like Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Erykah Badu, Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald. Their vocal techniques and emotional depth never fail to inspire me, and I can listen to their music on repeat without ever getting tired of it. Their artistry reminds me of the power of pure emotion and how music can connect us to something much greater than ourselves. Moreover, rock and blues are my second passions. I could listen to Muse and Arctic Monkeys on a loop. Muse's dynamic range-from hard-hitting rock to orchestral influences-always keeps me on my toes.

• 3) Explain to us the most difficult or riveting course you could personally give to a student of music.

  If I were to design the most difficult course, it would focus on 'Vocal Expression & Advanced Technique.' It would challenge students to not only perfect their vocal skills but also to explore the emotional depths of their voice. This course would cover everything from breath control to mastering different vocal styles, improvisation, and singing with full emotional engagement. I'd also dive into the psychology behind performance, encouraging students to connect with their audience on a personal level. The aim would be to create an artist who understands both the technical and emotional aspects of singing.

• 4) What do you think is the most complicated instrument to master and why?

  For me, the voice is the most complex instrument to master. While many people might consider it 'just an instrument of sound,' there's so much nuance involved-breath control, resonance, pitch accuracy, vibrato, and articulation. Plus, it's physically and emotionally taxing, especially when performing consistently. Our voices are connected to our emotions, and learning to control them in a way that delivers consistent, beautiful sound is a lifelong journey. There's always something new to learn, even for professionals.

• 5) What are your keys to success?

  My keys to success are a combination of discipline, passion, and constant learning. As an artist, it's vital to keep evolving. Never stop practicing, listen, and stay open to new influences. For me, it's also about perseverance-there will always be challenges, but overcoming them is what makes the journey worthwhile. And, perhaps most importantly, embracing my true voice as both a singer and a teacher has been crucial to my growth.

• 6) Name three musicians you dream of meeting in your favourite bar in the early hours of the morning. Explain why.

  1. Erykah Badu - Erykah is a true pioneer of soulful, alternative music. Her ability to blend jazz, R&B, and hip-hop into something entirely her own is mesmerizing. I would love to sit down with her and talk about her creative process, how she stays so authentic, and what drives her to push boundaries in both her music and personal expression. I imagine it would be a conversation full of wisdom and inspiration.
  
  2. Aretha Franklin - The Queen of Soul. Her voice is powerful beyond words, and her legacy in music is unparalleled. Meeting her would be an opportunity to hear firsthand about how she shaped the soul and gospel genres and how she dealt with the pressure of being such an icon. I would love to learn more about the emotional strength that informed her performances and how she balanced being both a trailblazer and a deeply soulful artist.
  
  3. Stevie Wonder - Stevie's music transcends genres, and his ability to create timeless songs that touch the heart is unparalleled. I would be eager to hear about his experiences in the music industry, his thoughts on songwriting, and how he developed his unique musical language.

• 7) Provide a valuable anecdote related to music or your days at music school.

  One of the most memorable moments from music school was when I participated in a masterclass with a world-renowned vocal coach. I was invited to perform in front of my peers and the coach during the class. I was nervous, but she gave me the most invaluable piece of advice: 'It's not about singing perfectly; it's about singing with intention and connecting to the emotion in the song.

• 8) What are the little touches that make you a Superprof in music?

  As a music teacher, I believe everything starts with mindset. The little touches that make me a Superprof come from creating an environment where students feel safe to explore their voice and feel empowered to overcome their self-doubt. As a vocal coach, my task is to help my students blend technical expertise with emotional depth, and I emphasise the power of positive thinking and mental preparation. The mind plays a massive role in music-whether it's performance anxiety or a lack of confidence in your abilities, these mental blocks can hold back a student's growth.