Songwriting and lyric writing sessions with highly experienced contemporary vocalist and teacher

Find out more about Susanna

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

  My passion for music definitely came from my family - when your parents are both opera singers, it's hard not to have a passion for it! Singing was my first instrument (Mum said I was singing before I first spoke haha) but I also loved learning the violin and the piano from the age of 8. I also feel in love with songwriting around the same age.

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

  I am HUGE soul music fan. That includes anything soulful - classic soul, disco, neo-soul, R&B, hip hop, house, gospel....the list goes on! If I HAD to pick one artist I was allowed to listen to and one only, I would have to go with Stevie Wonder; amazing singer, brilliant songwriter, talented musician and great performer.

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

  That is a great question! For me, I think one of the most fascinating courses I could give is exploring the holistic nature of singing and vocalising. It's just as much about the connection with your mind and body as it is technique.

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

  Honestly, singing! The actual technique is not that hard (it's based around a lot of things our body already knows how to do), it's the psychological element and habitual obstacle that can stand in the way of singing being as easy, freeing and expressive as it should be.

• What are your keys to success?

  In terms of success with singing, I would say 1. Have a growth mindset; instead of "I can't do this", think "I can't do this YET". 2. Focus on the process, not just the end goal - that's where you learn the most 3. Be sure to have fun with it!

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

  Narrowing this down it such a challenge! Ok, 1. Stevie Wonder - he is one of my musical heros, as I mentioned before, and to jam with him would be amazing! 2. Erykah Badu - She is an amazing singer, songwriter and musician and she is unapologetically herself, very authentic. 3. Dolly Parton - She's an amazingly talented singer/songwriter, a true pioneer for women in the music industry, and seems like she'd be great to hang out with!

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

  When I was 14, I entered the talent show at my high school. I was going to sing Toni Braxton's 'Unbreak My Heart' along to the track, but it didn't sound good, so I took the very brave decision to sing it acapella...can't believe I had the guts to even think of it! Anyway, when it was my turn to go on stage, there were other kids laughing at me, making fun of me etc. However, when I started to sing, the whole room went silent. I finished singing, and it was still silent for what felt like forever........then the room erupted with cheers! Even the people teasing me were super impressed. In the end, I came 2nd place - even then, the whole room was still chanting my name. I always remember that time as the day when I'm feeling low or doubting myself, cos that day I learned just how powerful singing can be, and that no matter how people treat me or what they might think of me, they can't take my singing away from me or deny my ability. This is also a BIG reason I teach.....to share that power with others and help them achieve their goals and dreams.

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

  Aside from my singing ability, it's my teaching ability that is key as a Superprof. I cater every lesson to the individual and work on what THEY want to achieve and learn. I also adapt my delivery and material to each person too, as not everyone learns in the same way - we are all unique, and that's why I love teaching - no day is ever the same. I also want to help others get as much joy, freedom of expression and confidence from singing as I can.