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

Vocalize Choirs

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

Chris Johnson Vocal Coach

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

Teach Voice

ABOUT THE GUEST

Mark Lowman is a vocal coach and performer with over 15 years of international experience across the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. After a successful career in the travel industry leading events, sales, and marketing teams, he moved into coaching and personal development.

His passion for music began as a hobby, later performing with choirs and bands, and he started vocal coaching in 2018 with Vocalize Choir, which has since grown into a thriving, successful community. After training with leading vocal coaches and completing the BAST 20-Hour Course, he transitioned to full-time teaching.

In 2025, he founded Mark Lowman Vocals, now supporting over 50 students across Dorset in its first year.

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At BAST Training, we help singers turn their experience into a meaningful teaching career. Building the confidence, knowledge, and real-world skills to teach with confidence, clarity, and compassion.

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Ep.254 Lessons Learned in the First Year of Teaching Singing with Mark Lowman