'West End girl' - London-trained singer launches South Tyneside singing class for kids
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A London-trained performer is starting a new singing class for children in South Tyneside to boost confidence and vocal skills.
A real ‘West End girl’ who has performed on the London stage hopes to hit the right notes by launching a new singing class in South Tyneside for children.
Amy Duggan, 30, says technique and commitment will be key to success when she adds the group to her established repertoire of teaching at AFD Vocal & Performance Coaching.
And Amy believes she can get even those with limited range, or lacking in confidence, to enjoy marked improvement in their singing in just six weeks.
The mum established her sought-after business in 2019, after returning to South Shields following more than a decade living in London.
She moved to the capital at the age of 10 when she won the part of Debbie in Billy Elliot The Musical at the Victoria Palace Theatre in the West End.
Her breakthrough role was followed by a scholarship at the Corona Theatre School, and then by a place at The BRIT School.
A further year of intensive professional training at a drama school in the city followed.
Her ethos around AFD Vocal & Performance Coaching has been to bring high-level 'real world' London training to children in her hometown and beyond.
Now, with her enterprise going from strength to strength through its one-on-one professional coaching from her home, she is aiming to expand its offer.
In September, Amy will start The AFD Performance Club, a Sunday morning group for up to 20 children, aged seven to 11, at The Wellbeing Loft in South Shields.
It will provide them with the opportunity to develop vocal technique, build confidence and enjoy the performing arts in a supportive and focused environment.
Each session will bring together singing, movement, acting activities and performance techniques, although improving vocal performance is a principal element.
Amy said: “Teaching is a passion and I love music. This group will be about learning singing techniques, such as how to breathe so that there are no vocal injuries.
“The children will learn to sing harmonies and learn to sing in a healthy and safe way. Learning breathing techniques will make them sound better.
“Some of the students who I do my one-to-one coaching with have asked for this group to be set up.
“It is about making sure the children are supported and can gain confidence. The group will focus on singing but will do all performance types as well.
“It is very rare to find somebody who is tone deaf, that’s really just coining a phrase. Some people do come in with low confidence – it’s lovely to see them grow.
“Progress depends on the individual, but I think in six weeks you can see good results. I’m very much looking forward to the group starting.
“The group is suitable for children who enjoy singing, performing and creativity, and no previous performance experience is needed, just enthusiasm and a willingness to take part.”
The first group lesson is from 10.30am to 11.30am on September 6 at The Wellbeing Loft in Franklin Street, priced £7.50 per person.
Places are limited and more information is at www.afdsinging.co.uk/afd-performance-club