Ep.282 How to Support Neurodivergent Singers with Sarah Marrion
How can singing teachers better support neurodivergent singers? In this insightful episode, Alexa is joined by singer, educator and former hospital school deputy head Sarah Marion to explore neurodiversity in singing lessons. From ADHD, autism, Tourette’s and anxiety, to sensory overload, perfectionism and performance overwhelm, Sarah shares practical ways teachers can create safer, more flexible and inclusive learning environments. Discover why structure and preparation matter, how music can support communication and connection, and why focusing on each singer’s individual ‘superpowers’ can transform the way we teach. WHAT ’ S IN THIS PODCAST? 7:33 What is a hospital school? 8:02 The role of music in education and neurodiversity 17:34 Supporting singers with ADHD 19:26 Supporting singers with autism and Tourrette’s 22:42 Recognising the signs of overwhelm 24:00 Preparation, predictability and structuring the singing lesson 30:27 Supporting neurodivergent singers in rehearsals and auditions 31:43 Helping neurodivergent singers with organisation 36:34 The neurodivergent teacher 38:44 Rethinking professionalism and making adaptations About the presenter HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKS Alternative Provision Huh - The Importance to the Arts and Wider Opportunities’ by Myatt and John Tomsett Singing Teachers Talk - Ep.280 What Singing Teachers Need to Understand About Performance Anxiety with Mel Toy ABOUT THE GUEST Sarah is a Wirral-based singer and pianist with a lifelong passion for music and performance. In her twenties, based in Manchester she performed extensively with bands, session work and solo gigs, including a stint working abroad. Sarah is a classically trained singer to post graduate level. Following her performing career, Sarah dedicated 30 years to teaching music in Wirral comprehensive schools. During this time, she led numerous school productions and successfully prepared students for GCSE music examinations, inspiring a new generation of musicians. During the last 10 years in education Sarah became a Deputy Headteacher in a hospital school specialising in Trauma Informed Teaching, creating teaching toolkits for reducing anxiety in young people with poor mental health, often comorbid with a diagnosis of neurodiversity. Sarah now combines her time between performing, 1:1 Teaching and has a mentor role with the SSAT. [Schools Students and Teachers Network] Youtube Instagram: @sarah_marrion_sings 🎁 Free Resource: Get your copy of How to Assess the Singer’s Voice with Confidence — a practical guide to help you understand what’s going on in any singer’s voice. >>> DOWNLOAD HERE 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. “The BAST Advanced Foundation has given me more than the tools I need to teach — it’s given me confidence, a community, and a future.” Jess McGlinchey, UK Start with the foundations >>> ENROL NOW basttraining.com | Stay Updated


