Ever wondered what really happens in that all-important first year of teaching? The leap from passion to profession, from ‘maybe one day’ to ‘this is it’ – it’s rarely a straight line. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the journey of Mark Lowman – from a career in hospitality and travel to stepping into life as a vocal coach. What does it take to start from scratch, build a studio, and back yourself when imposter syndrome creeps in? This is an honest look at that first year: the turning points, the practical steps, and the mindset shifts that make it all possible. It’s about more than technique – it’s about courage, reinvention, and finding your voice not just as a singer, but as a teacher. Let’s get into it.
WHAT’S IN THIS PODCAST?
0:50 A bit about Mark
9:05 Putting ‘transferable skills’ to use
11:26 Choirs: Managing different personalities, needs and abilities
16:50 Demonstration: The challenge as a male presenting singing teacher
21:20 The first steps to becoming a singing teacher
27:38 Managing imposter syndrome
35:04 What has changed Mark’s mind on?
39:03 Mark’s mission
47:32 What keeps Mark excited about teaching?
About the presenter HERE
RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS
Singing Teachers Talk Ep.102 – Understanding Singing and Menopause
Singing Teachers Talk Ep.247 – The 5-Day Challenge: Clarity, Confidence and Getting Started as a Singing Teacher
Singing Teachers Talk Ep.154 – Managing Imposter Syndrome, Low Confidence and Overwhelm as Singing Teachers
Singing Teachers Talk Ep.195 How Unlocking Your True Values Can Transform Your Teaching and Life
Singing Teachers Talk Ep.227 Following Your Bliss: How to Align Your Life and Business
ABOUT THE GUEST
Mark is a vocal coach, performer, and former travel industry professional with over 15 years of experience working across the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. After graduating with a First-Class Honours degree with Distinction in International Hospitality Management from the University of Surrey, he built a successful career leading events, media campaigns, and sales teams for global travel brands.
Alongside his corporate career, Mark developed a strong passion for personal development, completing multiple courses in coaching, mentoring, and communication. He has since supported students, graduates, and professionals in unlocking their potential and progressing their careers. His achievements include being named one of Travel Trade Gazette’s “Top 30 Under 30” and a finalist for Young Manager of the Year at the British Hospitality & Travel Industry Hall of Fame Awards.
Mark’s journey into music began as a hobby, taking singing lessons with expert coaches including Chris Johnson and Jordan Lisle before joining Southampton based pop and rock choir, En Masse originally led by Gareth Henderson where he performed in multiple sold out shows. He later co-founded the band The Four Tones, performing regularly at weddings, festivals, and private events.
In 2018, Mark stepped into coaching, being approached by two friends to help launch Vocalize Choir as a Vocal Coach and Choreographer. The choir has since grown to over 50 members, enjoying 8 years of sold-out performances, local festival appearances, and original music releases—including their charity single “Be Here This Christmas,” which reached number two on the iTunes Christmas Download chart and gained regional TV and radio coverage. Mark now also leads coaching for Vocalize Youth, supporting young singers aged 7 to 17.
After completing the BAST 20-Hour Course in 2020, Mark made the transition to full-time coaching in 2025, founding Mark Lowman Vocals. In its first year, the business has grown into a thriving practice, supporting over 50 students of all ages and experience levels through one-to-one coaching across the Dorset area.
