Estill Master Trainer Spotlight: Heather Hitchcock
This Estill Master Trainer spotlight features, Heather Hitchcock, based in New Albany, Ohio, USA. Heather is a vocal coach, teaching out of her private studio, One Voice Studios, as well as on location for live recordings, studio sessions, vocal workshops and conferences throughout North America. Heather has been a guest lecturer for local high school choral music programs, as well as higher education institutions such as Capital University (OH), Cedarville University (OH) and Ohio Christian University (OH).
Current home (city, country): Carroll, OH USA
Where did you grow up?: New Albany, OH USA
Why you do you love Estill Voice Training?: I love EVT because it empowers vocal artists by facilitating an understanding of vocal anatomy and how to apply this knowledge to create unlimited options in voice qualities while prioritizing vocal health. EVT fosters vocal stewardship, a practice that is essential to the success and longevity of any artist.
How did you find Estill Voice Training? After experiencing ongoing vocal fatigue, I saw my ENT who diagnosed me with vocal fold bowing. He recommended therapy and the SLP who facilitated it integrated EVT into her treatment protocol with remarkable results. Recognizing my interest in the methodology, she invited me to a Level 1 class which was truly lifechanging both personally and professionally. I am so grateful for her invitation and for the impact that EVT has made on my life.
Biggest professional challenge: Maintaining work/life balance. I am bivocational, so my time is quickly allocated towards those dual responsibilities. And when creative opportunities abound through my private voice studio, teaching workshops, leading worship, and vocal coaching at the local theatre, it’s easy to cross a balance boundary! Prayerful consideration is invested into these opportunities which means that some seasons focus more on teaching or performing or a blend of both, while others have allowed me to refocus on my overall wellbeing in order to offer my best self to loved ones, colleagues, and clients. Regardless of the season, EVT is my constant for everything voice related!
Last book read: I am currently reading Fully Alive by Susie Larson.
Person you would most like to have dinner with: My Dad. I have dearly missed his gentle wisdom, hearty laughter, cheesy sense of humor, and generous bear hugs since he passed away 21 years ago. He was an incredible man and I am so blessed to be his daughter!
Favorite performer: Many vocalists have inspired me and my artistry throughout my career. To name a few – Sarah Brightman, Sandy Patty, Natalie Grant, Christy Nockels, Taya Smith, Brooke Fraser.
Hobby(ies): Cooking, exercising, reading, inspirational writing, watching movies (especially Hallmark movies – no shame!), and spending time with family and friends.
Favorite quote: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
People would be surprised to know…that after more than 35 years of performing, I still experience significant performance anxiety before I sing. Also, I never learned how to ride a bicycle!
