Sing Smarter, Not Harder - 6 Strategies to Upgrade Your Learning (Part 2)
29/01/2026
Last week, in part 1 of this blog post, we talked about how Experimentation, Letting it happen and Reclaiming your voice can support your learning proces, with Kelsie’s reflection on 2025 as a framework.
In part 2, I’m taking you through the second part of Kelsie’s reflection form, in which we’ll explore the following 3 strategies:
- Celebration
- Interoception
- Gentleness
But first this:
If you’re looking for guidance in your vocal learning process, book your Free Discovery Call!
Let’s explore how online voice lessons with me can help you build not just vocal technique, but efficient learning strategies.
Strategy n° 4: Learning to Celebrate - The "Hidden" Secret
One of Kelsie’s biggest wins in 2025 was how she handled success. She spoke about her progress to friends and family with excitement. She paid attention to how it felt and let herself be proud.
She did something very important here. Kelsie named the success out loud, tracked the physical and emotional sensation, and allowed pride without immediately raising the bar. This is excellent self coaching. Many singers skip this step and unknowingly train themselves to overlook progress.
Kelsie intends to keep acknowledging her wins in 2026 and, most importantly, “letting her voice do what it wants.”
Letting your voice do what it wants isn’t a lack of discipline; it is an act of trust. It means honoring the information your body gives you in real-time.
My Tips:
- Keep anchoring wins in physical and emotional sensation, not just in sound. The body remembers pride and safety far better than verbal praise alone.
- Explicitly mark moments of surprise or ease as wins, even if they don’t align with your original practice plan. These “happy accidents” are often your greatest teachers.
Strategy n° 5: Interoception
Kelsie’s goal for 2026 is to clarify the difference between her M1 belt and mix settings, which currently feel “blurred” together and this might be due to her hypermobility.
Hypermobile singers often feel like they have a million colors, but no clear lines. For them, it’s extra important to train the internal sensations and not just focus on external sound.
Don’t get me wrong: Interoception is important for everybody. However, for hypermobile people, it’s more difficult to develop awareness of what exactly is happening inside their bodies.
Kelsie also wants to work on distortion, but has struggled with coughing or tickling.
These are clear signals that her system is recruiting protective reflexes. This doesn’t mean distortion isn’t for her, but it does mean it must be approached extremely carefully and without any performance pressure.
My Tips:
- Take the time to train your interoception: Where and how you feel resistance, activity, relaxation, resonance,…
- Contrast over Nuance: Start with “either/or” tasks. We want to exaggerate the difference between two coordinations until the body recognizes the distinct “zip code” of each.
- Regarding distortion: Think of exposure rather than execution. Very short, playful attempts with immediate release are far more productive than long sessions of trying to “get it right.”
- Physical comfort. Singing may never feel uncomfortable! Hard work, yes. Strain, no. If something feels technically “correct” but energetically draining, that information matters. Please name that in lessons. It helps your teacher guide you far more precisely.
- Read my blog post Hypermobile Singers: From Pretty Impressive to Pretty Painful .
Strategy n° 6: Gentleness as a Technical Strategy
Kelsie said that she wants to cultivate gentleness more in 2026. She admitted to expecting a lot from her voice and struggling with imperfection.
Here is the secret: Gentleness is not a “soft” emotion; it is a high-level technical strategy. A voice that feels safe is a voice that explores. A voice that feels judged is a voice that tightens.
Kelsie’s voice is already showing her that it opens when it feels safe. Gentleness is therefore not an emotional preference, but a technical strategy.
My Tips:
-
When you meet an “imperfect” note with gentleness, treat it as data rather than a failure. Data is useful; failure is just heavy.
- Read my blog post Perfectionism is NOT the Enemy – How ACT Can Help Singers Find Balance.
Kelsie’s journey shows that when you focus on how you learn, the what (the high notes, the belt, …) starts to fall into place.
Ready to Start Your Own Journey?
Learning how to learn is an important part of my teaching approach. We don’t just “fix songs”; we build a sustainable, joyful relationship with your instrument.
Book your Free Discovery Call to explore how online voice lessons with me can help you build not just vocal technique, but efficient learning strategies!
I’ve been training with Sarah for just about 2 years now and have had amazing results! I started with her at 58 so it’s never too late to get going.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2024-10-31T19:08:21+02:00
Kim, Avocational Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/kim-general/
Sarah, thank you so much! Your approach so far is the only one that has clearly taken me further. You are a top teacher.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-09-03T18:40:57+02:00
Haike D'haese - Singer & Actress
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/4569/
I have been using what I learned with Sarah after my very first session, with tremendous results. Two of my students have been recalled for auditions at prestigious drama schools in the UK, at which the standard of singing is extremely high.
This was a direct result of what I learned, as one of them had a very tricky passage which we were able to fix quickly and simply after my mentoring session with Sarah.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2025-01-29T17:37:30+02:00
Jess Blatchley, Singing Teacher and Jazz Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/jess-mentoring/
As a beginner, it is enlightening to see what is possible with your voice. Sarah achieves great results with simple and short solutions. I always thought that singing is difficult, but now I know that you can make progress quickly. I learned that singing is possible for everyone, with the right guidance.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2023-06-05T16:03:34+02:00
Esther De Bièvre - Recovery therapist
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/esther-over-sarah/
Sarah gave me a lot of new insights about my voice and everything that has an impact on 'my instrument'. She is an absolute top professional, her knowledge and practice are amazing!
I highly recommend Sarah if you are looking for a voice specialist!
I highly recommend Sarah if you are looking for a voice specialist!
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-06-19T10:42:06+02:00
Gwendy - Vocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/would-recommend-to-anyone/
Sarah, the thing about you is your clear passion. You're so passionate about what you do. You have this hunger for excellence - and to do everything with a precision that matches how you want to express your work in the world.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2024-09-23T12:11:27+02:00
Bec Tilley, Voice Coach & Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/bee-tee-2/
Sarah has a passionate and very intelligent way of coaching singers and speakers. She knows how to connect a very profound knowledge of the voice with a respectful attitude towards each of her students.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-06-19T10:42:05+02:00
Nele Willekens - Library youth worker
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/this-is-a-great-product/
Sarah is a very enthusiastic teacher who explains with lots of color, in an interactive way, so that you can apply everything immediately. Her approach is extremely enthusiastic, with an incredible amount of knowledge, an absolute must!
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2023-06-05T16:42:04+02:00
Susanne Vahle - Vocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/susanne-v-5/
I'm very grateful for meeting Sarah. She really made me grow as a singer, as a student and as a human being.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-09-11T16:50:41+02:00
Nele - Singer & Youth Library Worker
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/nele-7/
I am so impressed how you adapt so personally and individually to each client.
You are a GREAT teacher 😀👍🙏🙏
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2024-10-18T10:45:12+02:00
Stella Handley, Avocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/stella-general/
My progress would not have happened without the wonderful collaboration we have together - you are such an amazing teacher, able to adapt and help your clients to adapt in any situation which presents itself. For my part, I am always eager to listen, learn and apply.
I feel very privileged to have met you - I have learnt so much... and the journey continues. THANK YOU !!!!
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2025-10-27T14:22:03+02:00
Stella Handley, Avocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/stella-general-2/
Thank you, Sarah! I'm a voice teacher at a university in Canada and I'm always looking for new body work exercises for my students. This was very helpful and you are a wonderful teacher.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-09-04T17:29:22+02:00
Dr. Tracy Smith Bessette - Singer, Voice Instructor, Early Music Coach & Course Lecturer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/2-tracy/
I love that Sarah doesn’t teach by only using a theoretical approach. She uses methods that allow the body to do more of what comes naturally and as a result, you get healthy vocal sounds and song.
She couples this with her techniques that allow one to manage things like performance anxiety with much greater ease. It’s a win- win as I have in the past 6 months started to perform at jam sessions and more. I love it!
She couples this with her techniques that allow one to manage things like performance anxiety with much greater ease. It’s a win- win as I have in the past 6 months started to perform at jam sessions and more. I love it!
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2025-08-21T11:37:43+02:00
Kim, Avocational Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/kim-general-2/
Sarah! Thank you so much for the session today. I learned a lot and just really appreciated your patience and direction and overall teaching style.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2022-10-07T18:40:04+02:00
Diane Speirs - Singer & Voice Teacher
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/diane/
Sarah, I am blown away by the sheer depth & breadth of your learning. Every time I think I have heard all the things that you have some good expertise on, you surprise me with sharing about a new topic and I'm like WOW! She really knows her sh*t! From so many angles! It's super impressive.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2024-09-23T12:07:22+02:00
Bec Tilley, Voice Coach & Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/bee-tee-1/
Your work with the active participants is a nice testament of your skill and ability to help people grow directly in the moment.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2022-09-17T13:59:46+02:00
Pieter Van Hecke, Vocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/pieter-teacher/
More than happy, grateful that Sarah has gathered so much knowledge and has the talent to explain things that are sometimes complicated in a very clear way.
What I also appreciate very much is her respect for every one of her clients / students.
What I also appreciate very much is her respect for every one of her clients / students.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-06-29T11:08:22+02:00
Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/nele-4/
Sarah's enthusiasm and passion for teaching really shines through when she shares her deep insights and expertise on all things singing. I am impressed by the level of detail and precision she brings to each question, and it is clear that she truly cares about helping her students grow and improve.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2023-06-05T15:55:47+02:00
Ariane De Dom, Avocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/ariane-over-sarah/
Sarah has a lot of expertise and a highly professional approach. You receive a lot of input in an easy and accessible way, which makes it easy to perform the exercises. Everything Sarah offers is very clear and tangible.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2023-06-05T15:49:07+02:00
Breg Horemans - Vocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/breg-over-sarah/
Sarah is an impressively skilled vocalist. She is able to share her broad knowledge in a clear and structured way, all while being a pleasant host.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-06-29T10:47:48+02:00
Manon Campens - Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/manon/
What can I say, I think Sarah is amazing. She knows her shit - pardon my French. It is sooo obvious that she loves what she does and that inspires everyone around her.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2023-06-05T16:41:23+02:00
Susanne Vahle - Vocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/susanne-v-4/
Sarah is a phenomenally talented vocal coach/trainer, inspirational speaker and a leader in her field. Her webinars are dynamic and fuelled with practical information. She encourages you to try out new vocal techniques in the comfort of your own home, and is able to describe and demonstrate these techniques with real flair.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-09-15T14:00:32+02:00
Amy Bebbington - Director of Training bij Association of British Choral Directors
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/amy/
Sarah is a great and impressively competent teacher - a very well educated pedagogue.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-06-19T10:42:06+02:00
Maud Retter - Speech therapist
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/excellent-customer-support/
You really are a "super teacher". Great to see you work with singers, your enthusiasm, how you try to explain everything in different ways. Hats off to you!
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2022-09-17T13:55:48+02:00
Kenneth Ottoy, Singer of Plagiaat & Piron
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/kenneth-teacher/
I would recommend everyone who is passionate about our wonderful vocal instrument, to get in contact with Sarah. She literally breathes voice-insights.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-09-28T15:03:33+02:00
Kelly Van Hove - Entertrainer focused on Soft HR & communication workshops / Vocational Musical Theatre Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/kelly-2/
As a teacher, Sarah is a guide standing next to the singer. She doesn't push or pull you over your limits, but you go over it together. When a working point arises, Sarah points it out in a constructive way.
You learn to look for a solution and deal with your struggles yourself. It's not pre-made shit, it's to the point.
You learn to look for a solution and deal with your struggles yourself. It's not pre-made shit, it's to the point.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2023-06-05T16:09:04+02:00
Esther De Bièvre - Recovery therapist
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/esther-db-over-sarah-2/
I started working regularly with Sarah after taking an Extreme Vocals workshop with her. She has helped me re-discover my old ‘belter’ self but in a way that works for me now.
I leave our lessons feeling inspired and with new tools to use with my voice students. I particularly love that I now have language to identify and describe with more specificity the different kinds of sounds that live in pop/rock styles. Working with Sarah has made me a better teacher for my students!
I leave our lessons feeling inspired and with new tools to use with my voice students. I particularly love that I now have language to identify and describe with more specificity the different kinds of sounds that live in pop/rock styles. Working with Sarah has made me a better teacher for my students!
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2024-03-27T17:22:14+02:00
M.J. Johnson, Singing Teacher and Vocal Coach
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/m-j-teacher/
I am thrilled what I learned with Sarah, as are my students. After years of teaching and performance experience it is never too late to learn even more. Thank you Sarah!!
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2025-08-21T11:41:45+02:00
Jess Blatchley, Singing Teacher and Jazz Singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/jess-mentoring-2/
I appreciate you greatly Sarah, admire you, and love to learn from you!
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2020-09-05T17:19:11+02:00
Janet Wilson - Vocational singer
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/janet/
I get a lot out of our voice lessons together, they make me feel really buoyant and inspired. I feel that you facilitate my progression as a student wonderfully.
singsing! Sarah Algoet
2025-09-11T13:34:10+02:00
Singer & Voice Teacher
https://www.singsing.be/onlinecourses/testimonials/colin-zanglessen/
2
singsing! Sarah Algoet
As always, feel free to send me your thoughts, questions, and feedback in the comments below this blog, via the contact form or in the singsing! online community 
Cordially,
Sarah