The Journey of a Holistic Singing Teacher Combining Music, Qi Gong, and Artistic Expression

I was born in Lancashire, where my passion for music began early, performing in rock bands and participating in amateur musicals and plays. These formative experiences shaped my artistic journey, leading me to study as a baritone at the prestigious Royal Northern College of Music. During my studies, I portrayed memorable stage roles such as Sandor Barinkay in Gypsy Baron, the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz, and Gaylord Ravenal in Showboat.

Driven by a desire to expand my artistic horizons, I relocated to London to continue my vocal training as a tenor. I joined the chorus of Carl Rosa, touring across the UK, USA, Australia, and New Zealand. My career flourished with performances at renowned opera companies, including Opera Holland Park, Dorset Opera, Raymond Gubbay, Birmingham Opera, and Mid-Wales Opera—where I was first introduced to the transformative practice of Qi Gong.

These experiences immersed me in a variety of roles, each offering unique challenges and opportunities for artistic growth. From embodying the dynamic Tom Jones in Edward German’s opera to playing the Player Boy and the American tourist in Death in Venice at esteemed festivals like Aldeburgh and Bregenz, I honed my craft, pushing the boundaries of my abilities and deepening my connection to music and storytelling.

A career highlight was creating the role of Mr. Rushworth in Jonathan Dove’s chamber opera Mansfield Park. I also brought Shepherd Fennel to life in John Whittaker’s The Three Wayfarers with Opera Anywhere, embracing the challenge of interpreting a new work.

In July 2021, I experienced a milestone moment performing as the Duke of Cornwall in King Lear at the Grange Festival. This groundbreaking project, spearheaded by Sir John Tomlinson, Kim Begley, and Keith Warner, featured an extraordinary cast, including Sir Thomas Allen, Susan Bullock, Louise Alder, and Emma Bell. This innovative production of Shakespeare's masterpiece earned widespread critical acclaim for showing that opera singers can indeed act.

Beyond opera, I share my love for music through Trovatori, a duo that brings enchanting performances to audiences worldwide.

Today, I teach singing, breathwork, and Qi Gong from my home studio in Ludlow, Shropshire. My unique holistic practice, Ting Song, integrates the ancient Chinese art of Qi Gong with vocal training, helping students free their voices, enhance their breath control, and sing with ease and confidence.