Goldsmiths student, S March ‘24

The Voice Expressive classes offered at Goldsmiths have been a way for me to reconnect with music. 

Brenda offers a safe space for myself and the other participants to use our emotions and put them into song, I’ve never felt judged or anxious; when I have felt anxious, Brenda has provided the care and compassion needed to facilitate my needs. 

I have learnt and relearned vocal techniques, and have been given the ability to work in a group and individually. But most importantly, it’s fun. I can genuinely say that I enjoy myself during the Voice Expressive classes.'

Goldsmiths Student March ‘24

I have found the vocal ensemble and Brenda to be refreshing. I have had a lot of negavitie experiences within vocal tuition and tutors but Brenda made me feel safe, accepted and positive. Brendas vocal techniques were easier for my voice than ones I have had prior and were fun and holistic. I felt brenda focused on me as an individual and focused on more than my voice which helped me to feel less stressed when using my voice. My voice is tense through negative experience and Brenda has been very informative and understanding of this. As a group we all connected and had a good experience as well as learnt new ways of singing and I have found Brenda's approach to be therapeutic making the vocal warm ups and other vocal acheivements easier to reach.  I have really enjoyed my time in Brenda's classes and I will miss them when I leave. Though the sessions were within a group, I found them to be of more benefit than my previous individual lessons. Brenda is flexible with her approach making me feel more confident about singing and less afraid of going wrong as I know Brenda has many tricks up her sleeve. One voice and one approach definately doesnt fit all and I feel Brenda is well aware of this and really tunes into inidividuals needs as well as their capabilities. It was obvious to me that Brenda places importance on the individual as I find that can be missed or lost. I have found my individuality and needs have been an after thought previously but not with Brenda. Best vocal teacher I have had and a really positive experience. Brenda engages with spiritual themes which made me feel instantly understood and calm, I really appreciated this side of the ensemble. Being on the spectrum, direct and honest feedback/communication is essential and I feel Brenda is direct and honest which was extremely appreciated. I will really miss these workshops when I leave, definately one of the highlights of my goldsmiths experience, especially within the music department. It has been really valuable having a safe space like this with all the stressors of university, life.  

Mi,Student Summer ‘23

This term, I was facing different challenges and obstacles in mg life from the last term and it influenced/inspired the way I approached this class and singing/music itself. Every week was such a joyful and reflecting learning experience and was able to discover different way of practicing, singing and thinking every week. In terms of group practice, I enjoyed the improvisation session with everyone, exploring the space and sounds together and practicing to be present in that moment and with myself and everyone. That practice always positively reminded me to stay present even outside of the class and truly enjoy the unknown of the next moment. For my individual song, I felt much more comfortable to sing in front of everyone than the last term. Not only that, I felt fine with making mistakes, going off keys sometimes and being not sure of what to do. That’s a big step for me because I had been wanting to reach the comfortability with singing and the way I approach things in life that it’s okay to make mistakes, to take different paths or even not knowing what I want to do. When I listened back the singings I did, I realized I need to work on exploring my voice more, not to stay in my comfort zone but be more adventurous and see what I can find there. 

This class really helped me reflect my life through music and I found so much joy in that, how my life, music and people are interconnected. Every week two hours in this the class became a place and time where I could fully pursue my passion and heart, and reset and start everything again from there. Thank you so much for creating such a beautiful place for all of us. Although the school, life and everything is still tough but I feel like I came to London to meet you, take this class and reconnect with my joy again and I can’t appreciate enough for that. 

Institute of Education, teachers training session:

Kate (Music PGCE)
The students were required to evaluate the course holistically so I’ve pulled out any comments that were specific to your session below. I also spoke with them afterwards - it went down really well and a few of them said (in person)  that the comment below about the power they hold (both musically and other than musically) had really made an impact:

 “We were reminded in Brenda Rattray’s session of the power we hold as teachers and the need be mindful and aware of this in every interaction we have with children.”

 “I absolutely loved Brenda’s session  -  it shifted focus between singing and musicianship and responsibility. She’s very inspiring.”

 “Some incredible visiting speakers… Brenda was one of those highlights.”

Ivor (Institute of Education) teacher training:
“I really appreciated Brenda’s expertise and her honesty. Just from the short time we saw her she came across as a woman of great courage, showing how important her roots and convictions are to give strength to her music and expression. A lot of what she said chimed with me”

Cici student ‘23, ‘ I think it’s only right that you charge more as you provide such, for lack of a better word, transformative sessions. ‘

Feedback from a member of staff in attendance at an Expressive singing workshop day, held in St Alban’s High School for Girls! ………..

I just wanted to thank you and your team for the most wonderful day on Sunday.

I enjoyed the day in my support role but wanted to share as a parent what a special day it was for both my children. They came away really alive and buzzy. Sophie went on to continue writing her song at home and has asked to perform it to us when she gets home today. I was so impressed with your workshop leaders whose kindness, calm and warmth were wonderful. I found the performance at the end of the day very moving.

Thank you for all your hard work to run such a special day for so many children.

Best Wishes

Holly

Lena ‘23

I want to say a huge thank you to you for such an amazing, challenging and transformative journey. I've got so much from the class and would love to know about any other groups or teaching opportunities that you offer.

A. May ‘23

I’m really enjoying the course. It’s money we’ll spent. Thank you.

Sophie ‘23

I can’t thank you enough for all your support, you have been unbelievably inspiring, and the sessions have played a big role in seeing me through to the end of my MA which has been so challenging emotionally and mentally. Having this space and learning from the others in the group has taught me so much and helped me overcome some internal barriers.  I am hoping that when it’s all done that I can put in the practice and the work that I know is necessary to further grow and develop my singing.

I got excellent value for money in the sessions where it was just me, i also got value for money when there were a few of us there.

I’m gutted about missing out on this term, my financial situation is rocky as I’m completing my studies, but I would like to consider returning to the classes when I’m working fulltime and in a stronger financial position and able to pay the full fee…..

 Workshop with vulnerable women ‘23

The Voice Expressions workshops were very helpful and fun for the women as they share with me that these have helped them to build confident. I recall how some of them ladies first came to the class being very shy and barely speaking.

However, at the end of the class, all women were engaged singing and expressing their opinions. Most of them said that they were happy to had attended to the class and that they wanted to attend to the rest of the sessions as these really helped them to forget issues that they were facing and enjoy themselves in a very relaxing environment.

Hillary Winter ‘22
Brenda is a thought-provoking and nurturing teacher, who creates intentional space for singers to flourish with their unique gifts. Not only does she challenge you vocally she engages with the singer's mindset to push beyond disbelief.

Student Summer '22

One of the most magical evenings that I've experienced. Music has accompanied me all my life in different shapes and forms and has always been a source of hope, happiness, solace and inspiration.

Taking part in the Voice Expressions project has enabled me to step out of my comfort zone and connect with music and myself in a completely new way, which I did not know existed.

I wanted to say thank you to Brenda Rattray and the Voice Expressions team for all the support and guidance and for making this project and evening so special, the incredible audience for giving us so much love and applause as well as congratulate other participants on their great performances.

I feel blessed and humbled to be able to perfrom alongside such incredible and talented singers many of which I can proudly call my friends.

Spring '22: The Music Complex

Expressive Vocal Freedom is so much more than a singing course. Brenda creates a safe space to show up authentically, be vulnerable and share your voice. For anyone wanting to develop their skills or rediscover their voice, this is an amazing course. It’s never too late to learn!

Xingyue: Spring ‘22 Goldsmiths University

I still really like your teaching style, which is interesting and useful. It can always help me to improve my ability without even realizing it. Its just like the magic.

Spring ‘22 The Music Complex

Reg the feedback the course was amazing. I managed to get out of my comfort zone a lot (which is exactly what I wanted). Also my confidence to stand in front of people and sing (without worrying as much as I used to) has grown so much. I also understand my voice so much better now. To go from not being able to hit certain notes in “I believe in you and me”and almost dropping the song, to then be able to sing the whole song is something I’m very proud of. It feels like I’ve made a huge step forward with my confidence, and found a lot of joy in singing plus reconnected with music again on a completely new level.

Expressive vocal freedom student

Goldsmiths University, December ‘21

Dear Brenda

Thank you so much for all your help and support throughout the course. It’s been such a great experience from start to finish and I feel like I’ve learnt so much. You’re an amazing teacher!

It’s been really good to learn about the voice and tuning in to all the different elements of singing - the warm up techniques, controlling the breath, feeling where the sound is placed, and using the voice as an instrument. I also loved the singing we did as a group - great song choices and really nice to learn some new songs I’ve not heard before.

I really enjoyed doing the improv…I never knew scatting over a melody could be so much fun! I’ve never done it before so I was a bit apprehensive at first but I really enjoyed the freedom and musicality of it.

There’s been plenty of memorable moments throughout the course -

Having not sung in such a long time, I wanted to rediscover my voice but wasn’t sure where to begin and was very nervous about singing in front of anyone. Doing the course was a great chance to dip my toe back in the water and now I want to dive in.

I loved the course so much i didn’t want it to end, so I’m going to do it again in January :)
I really want to learn my instrument and improve my technique and confidence. Not really sure the best way to do that…I’d really value your opinion, aside from doing the course again what else can I do to keep progressing?

Thank you again for everything. Your coaching and guidance has been so helpful in so many ways and I’m really grateful 😊
And a big thank you to Fabio too!

Cynthia: Goldsmiths University, Vocal Freedom

‘it’s been a pleasure to be part of this singing group. You have been an amazing teacher, I am grateful for the space that we managed to create. I’ll be back around late Jan 2022, I hope I’ll be able to join next semester’s cohort.

Thank you for your energy, kindness and support.’

 Expressive Singing – 10 Weeks Course: Ashley Dec 2020

The challenge which Brenda introduces in this course is to bring your most authentic self to every lesson. Coupled with the breadth of the course (soul, gospel and jazz) this was a great opportunity to push myself out of my comfort zone and Brenda and Will do an amazing job of creating a safe environment to practice improvisation and experiment with different sounds and techniques.   

 The smaller group set up really helps to develop group work and practice harmonies and you quickly learn the style of the other singers. Some great modern songs to practice with which ensures every session feels fresh and current. 

 By far the best part of the course is to see the development over the 10 weeks; both at an individual and group level, and the final performances are always pretty special! As a repeat student I would have no hesitation in recommending this course to any budding singers out there.

(Winnie 2019)

Brenda and Will’s classes are medicine for my soul. I’ve taken part in vocal expression, vocal improv and songwriting courses.  They are some of the best investments of my time and money, with lots of fun and joy mixed in!

Brenda and Will have a gift for bringing the best out of their students and giving feedback that is both constructive and encouraging.  They create a warm, safe and welcoming space where they help each student to develop their musical talents. It’s refreshing to leave the day behind for a couple of hours and re-connect with myself through musical expression.  In doing so, I remember that I am creative at heart and self expression knows no bounds - there are no rules and anything is possible!  Each of us has a voice and a message that we long to express, which comes out beautifully through the medium of music.  I see and experience that with every class I go to.

I thoroughly recommend these courses.  Performing and improvising vocally are some of the most vulnerable things I’ve done.  Leaning into these edges, with guidance, love and support from Brenda and Will, have helped me to grow musically, professionally and personally.  As a result, I feel more free to be me in all aspects of my life.  

(Belle’s review  Brenda One to One Spring 2020)

Before attending Brenda's one to one singing class, I knew that I needed help in many aspects in my musical journey in order to sing again. 

My confidence, breathing, stage presence, hearing, tuning were issues I recognised I had.

I did not expect to gain what I did in just the first session. She was incredible. It honestly felt like therapy, helping me to remember the reasons I stopped singing, and encouraging  me on the keys - to a point when I heard a voice I thought died a long time ago. My confidence has improved, and I sing a lot more publicly. I can honestly notice the difference in my voice. 

I highly recommend Brenda - she is awesome!

Spring 2020 (Joe Loop Machine Course Spring 2020)

I would say it was an excellent course that really opened up the possibilities of looping to me in a hands on way. Will is a very capable tutor, and takes the class in whichever direction fits the group’s needs in the moment, from performance tips, to musical theory, as well as the technicalities and how tos of using loop pedals to their full potential. There’s loads of applications that I hadn’t thought of, endless possibilities really. It’s a a course that inspires creative music making and also teaches a discipline as well. 

Improvisation Summer 2020 (safe distancing class)

John wrote:

I’m sorry it’s taken me a while to say thanks for a great couple of afternoon improvisation sessions. Scales have fallen from my eyes on the subject of improvising and you’ve both brought it alive for me. You seem to work so seamlessly together and your approach makes it easy for me to learn – plenty of excitement/enjoyment with a definite challenge. I’ve come away with a lot of practical ideas that I can use, and I hope I can follow up on it all. If nothing else, I am determined to learn to sing the full scale with sharps and flats!

 I hadn’t planned it, but I sang Skylark to a bunch of people on Zoom in the evening immediately after our second session. Someone asked afterwards “was that jazz?” so I was quite pleased!! 

Emma wrote: Autumn 2020

I am learning a lot from the course. Not just from the exercises and
technical aspects but also in terms of developing my musical ear and
confidence.
You create a safe environment for everyone,  with no judgement but
give clear and practical suggestions. Technically I am learning a lot
and in a very practical and accessible way.  I specifically like to
learn about vocal techniques because up to now I haven't really known
what my voice was doing when I sang! Having an awareness means I have
more choices, more options to explore vocally and can be braver and
challenging myself more.

As well as personally,  I also like to hear how you work with each person individually on their song. You can pinpoint exactly how to improve and develop their singing style. Tips about breath, placement of the voice, pitching, technically holding a note, warble,  belt, vowel sounds, playing with melody, mental attitude and performance etc are so useful to hear, because every
correction you give someone is also something for me to think about.
It's like a toolkit that is being added to all the time.  

I didn't know that many of these tools existed until now.  But once I know
about them , I can try them out and they become my tools!

Also because you manage to make everyone feel confident and encouraged
this means that they improve naturally.

When I started the course last term I was very scared to sing in front of others and now it's not a problem. I am less worried about making mistakes or a fool of myself because I feel very safe and supported.

You set up an environment of freedom where anything goes and it is ok to be a bit crazy which I love!

Rather than battling an emotional state you've helped me see
that it can be used.  That we are in control of our audience and that
we create our own safe place.

I am learning a lot about listening and music just through watching
and absorbing your work. So thank you!