How does a singing teacher land a vocal coaching job on a TV drama? In this episode, Alexa is joined by vocal coach, performer and returning guest – Candi Underwood, who shares her experience coaching Matt Smith for the Sky Atlantic adaptation of The Death of Bunny Munro, based on the novel by Nick Cave. They explore how the opportunity came about, what was required on set, and which skills singing teachers already have that translate directly into TV coaching work. Perfect listening for singing teachers curious about taking their work beyond the studio and onto screen.
WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST?
5:03 What is The Death of Bunny Munro?
6:42 What was the production company looking for in a vocal coach?
10:59 Preparing for the job
16:01 Taking a history
19:12 Surprising essential skills
20:30 Working on technique
23:39 Keeping it professional with high profile figures
28:53 Top 3 skills singing teachers needs for a TV coaching role
32:12 How to get your food in the door
RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS
Singing Teachers Talk – Ep31. Where to Start with Digital Marketing
Nick Cave
Matt Smith
The Death of Bunny Munro
Frank Sinatra
Singing Teachers Talk – Ep.198 Mastering Singing for Stage, Screen & the Music Industry
Singing Teachers Talk – Ep.242 Understanding Motor Learning: How It Can Help Us Give Better Singing Lessons – Eps. 155 & 156 Building Neurodiversity-Inclusive Voice Studios
Singing Teachers Talk – Ep.222 The Rise of AI: What It Means for Singers & Teachers
Singing Teachers Talk – Ep.226 The Rise of AI: Practical Tools and Strategies For the Singing Teacher
ABOUT THE GUEST
Candi Underwood is a professional performer, session singer, vocal coach and founder/leader of City of Stars, a group of intermediate musical theatre choirs across Sussex. With over 16 years of experience in the industry, she’s been featured as both a singer and songwriter on BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 6Music, Kerrang!, Metal Hammer, Radio X, Planet Rock and more, performed at nationwide festivals and featured in TV ads; all while building a successful coaching business dedicated to nurturing healthy, resilient voices and inspiring bold, fearless performances for singers and screamers alike. Most recently she collaborated with Nick Cave and Matt Smith on Sky TV’s ‘The Death of Bunny Munro’, coaching the former through a singing scene, and featured in the Marks & Spencer Christmas Advert with her choir alongside Dawn French.
