- Hi Shania! Can you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Hey! My name is Shania D’souza. I am a Business and Strategy Associate. I recently completed my Masters from the Imperial College of London. I am a theater enthusiast and I have been singing since I was 5. I have a deep passion for the craft and feel absolutely at home when I sing.
- Tell us about your journey with Deirdre. What made you decide to work with her?
I am very passionate about music, specifically singing. I had been singing since I was 5 but I needed to delve deeper into the craft and train my voice. I lacked correct vocal technique and just like an athlete needs a coach, I needed one for my voice too. I remember I met Deirdre for the first time back in 2015, when she was judging a vocal competition I had participated in. Absolutely excited and eager to be on stage, I gave what I think was one of my best performances which got me the first prize. I remember after I won, Deirdre approached me and complimented me on my performance. I inquired about one-on-one classes with her but unfortunately, due to constraints I couldn’t join her immediately, but I avidly followed her on Facebook and kept an eye out for any workshop she would be doing. It was in 2019 when she conducted a Vocal Workshop, which I signed up for and reacquainted with her. It was magical. I still remember we worked on ‘If I Ain’t Got You’ by Alicia Keys together. I actually witnessed my singing transform into something better and I just KNEW I had to join her. Finally in 2020 I joined her and there’s been no turning back!
- Musically, who are some of your biggest inspirations? Why?
I draw inspiration from many artists. I love Adele because I just love the way she emotes through every song. I’m in awe of Christina Aguilera, Jeniffer Hudson and Mariah Carey for their absolutely amazing range as well as the power with which they sing. I love Alicia Keys for her musicality and her sense of composition. The way she plays the piano so flawlessly whilst singing is definitely so inspiring!
- As a vocalist, what did you know about vocal technique before working with a vocal coach?
I knew a little bit. For example, you breathe down and sing, and the voice comes from the diaphragm, but that was it.
- What are some of your biggest takeaways after working with Deirdre? How has it changed your approach to singing?
My biggest takeaway is rooting and grounding yourself when you sing. Position is key and really defines the power with which you sing. Your stance while standing really drives correct diaphragmatic breathing and does away with ‘lazy singing’. Secondly, the ‘yawn’ does wonders. It changes the tone of your voice and really gives a more whole sound. Thirdly, CONFIDENCE. The way Deirdre believes in you is unmatched and her faith in you really makes you feel like you’re capable of anything.
- When you look towards your musical future, what’s different?
My approach towards a new piece is different. Because of the technique that’s been ingrained in my brain, I feel a lot more confident trying out a new song. Initially, I was hesitant and sent my brain into overdrive because of how much I used to overthink. But now the technique is like second nature to me, and I know with the right amount of effort and practice I can ace a song.
- What’s one piece of advice you’d share with anyone considering working with Deirdre?
Just blindly trust her with your voice. Don’t doubt the process and just have this innate belief that she is GOING to transform you within 6-12 months. This I can guarantee. Another thing is practice. There’s nothing Deirdre appreciates more than a student eager to learn and who is also willing to hone their craft. Practice takes you places and elevates your singing – results can be achieved faster too. And trust me, she knows when you haven’t practiced. 🙂
