“If I cannot fly, let me sing”
Stephen Sondheim
BIO
I am a singer.
I was born with a song in me, yearning to be released.
I come from a family of storytellers (some might call them liars). I am but a vehicle for the fairytale.
I try not to discriminate against any genre, but my heart is helplessly lost in jazz.
I am a pianist.
I used to play the music of the old masters and cry when I heard their whispers through my fingertips.
I cry less know and the whispers have grown to shouts of my own.
I am a tutor.
Sharing knowledge is exhilarating. Helping someone succeed is an honour. Seeing people reach their potential is beautiful.
This is a calling.
CV
MEd Artist/Teacher, RCS 2022
Estill Figure Proficiency 2021
Graduate Diploma in Jazz, St Andrews University 2015
BA Hons Applied Music, Strathclyde University 2011
MUSIC
VIDEO
PHOTOS
PROJECTS
I get to make music with these amazing humans
JUNIPER THREE
Harmony is at the heart of Juniper Three, a vocal trio composed of Aimee Penman, Laura Hill and Outi Smith. The group writes and arranges their songs as a collective, creating a tapestry of genres in a lush, seamless interweaving of voices and embracing the ethos of three solo singers coming together to share the lead.
Juniper Three's debut EP is out now.
OUTI & NICO
Outi is part of a jazz duo with guitarist Nico Gaul, playing a diverse mix of jazz and blues standards as well as more obscure pieces. After having played several private parties and smaller venues, the duo performed at last year’s Callander Jazz and Blues Festival to great acclaim and is looking forward to adding more high- profile performances under their belt this year.
GIGS
TEACHING
NURTURE YOUR CREATIVITY, REFINE YOUR VOCAL TECHNIQUE, AND EXPRESS YOURSELF CONFIDENTLY WITH YOUR UNIQUE, PERSONAL VOICE
I am an experienced vocal coach and musical director and have worked in a variety of settings from teaching individuals to conducting vocal groups and choirs. I combine my knowledge of good teaching practices, Estill Vocal Technique, body mapping, yoga and mindfulness for a truly holistic teaching approach.
Lessons are suitable for beginners as well as advanced singers and tailored to suit the needs and goals of each individual student, whether it's preparation for a specific event, exam or show, or just singing for fun and wellbeing. Genres covered range from pop, rock and folk to jazz and beyond.
Lesson topics include vocal technique, phrasing, interpretation, breath support, mindful awareness and musicality. I can also cover improvisation, music theory for singers, arranging, microphone technique and working with a band.
I am passionate about singing and do my best to ensure that lessons are as fun, relaxing and informative as possible.
I believe a good teacher is a lifelong student and I work hard on keeping my knowledge up to date.
I recently finished my studies for a Masters Degree in Education (Artist/Teacher) from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where I deepened my understanding of art pedagogy, holistic teaching methods and vocal improvisation. I have a certificate in Estill Figure Proficiency, which I achieved with mentoring from Gillian McLaren Scott.
I offer private vocal tuition from my home in Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire.
BOTH IN PERSON & ZOOM LESSONS AVAILABLE!
Lessons are charged at £35/60min, or £20/30min.
Limited number of discounted spaces available for primary school children at £15/30min.
I can also offer singing workshops and coaching for vocal harmony groups.
Contact for more info.
