Talena Cuthbert

I’m Talena, a professional Vocal Coach, Singing and Piano Teacher with more than 20 years’ experience helping children, adults and professional musicians develop their skills, confidence and enjoyment of music.

I run Layston Music and teach from my home studio near Royston, on the Cambridgeshire/Hertfordshire border, as well as offering online lessons. My teaching is friendly, supportive and tailored to the individual. I work with complete beginners through to experienced musicians, and lessons can be structured towards exams and qualifications or simply around the music and skills you would genuinely like to learn.

Singing Lessons & Vocal Coaching

As a Vocal Coach, I specialise in developing strong, reliable vocal technique – particularly for singers who perform regularly, gig, record or tour. I work with singers across pop, rock, alternative, musical theatre and contemporary styles, helping them understand how their voice works and how to use it confidently and sustainably.

Vocal lessons may include breath management, resonance and placement, vocal registers, bridging, range development, stamina, projection, agility, belt, stylistic choices, performance preparation and vocal health. For experienced performers, we can also look at set pacing, managing vocal fatigue, preparing for gigs or recording sessions, and building a technique that works consistently under pressure.

You do not need to be a professional singer to benefit from good technique, though! I also love working with people who have always wanted to sing but perhaps lack confidence, have been told in the past that they “can’t sing”, or simply want a supportive place to explore their voice.

Piano & Musicianship Lessons

My piano teaching combines learning to play music with developing a broader understanding of musicianship. Depending on the student, lessons might include reading notation, chords, scales, rhythm, aural skills, improvisation, music theory, songwriting and understanding how music is put together.

I teach beginners through to more advanced students and can support learners working towards RSL Rockschool examinations. However, exams are always a choice rather than the sole purpose of learning. For some students, working towards a grade provides fantastic motivation; for others, learning favourite songs, composing music or developing confidence at the piano is much more valuable.

I want students to become musicians rather than simply learning how to reproduce pieces for an exam.

Children, Young People & Neurodiversity

A large part of my work involves supporting children and young people, including students with autism, ADHD, anxiety, SEND and other additional needs.

Music lessons do not have to look the same for everybody. I take time to understand how each student learns, communicates and processes information, and lessons can be adapted accordingly. Some students thrive with a clear structure and measurable goals; others need more flexibility, creativity, movement or time to explore.

Alongside musical development, lessons can help young people build confidence, independence, self-expression and a positive relationship with learning. I particularly enjoy using singing, piano, songwriting and creative music-making to give students a safe way to express themselves.

Parents are very welcome to be part of the learning process where this helps their child feel comfortable and supported.

Qualifications & Experience

My background includes an MA in Vocal Performance, a First-Class BA (Hons), Grade 8 qualifications in both Singing and Piano, and extensive experience teaching and coaching musicians of different ages and abilities.

Over the years I have worked in private tuition, music education and professional vocal coaching, including working with singers preparing for performances, recording and touring. I have also worked extensively with children and young people with SEND and mental health difficulties.

I regularly prepare students for RSL Rockschool examinations in both singing and piano, while also supporting students who prefer a non-exam route.

What Are Lessons Like?

There is no one-size-fits-all Layston Music lesson.

Your lessons might involve:

• Singing and vocal technique
• Piano and keyboard skills
• Music reading and notation
• Music theory
• Chords and harmony
• Aural skills
• Rhythm and timing
• Improvisation
• Songwriting and composition
• Performance skills
• Exam preparation
• Audition or gig preparation
• Building practice strategies
• Developing musical confidence

Most importantly, I want students to understand why something works rather than simply being told what to do.

Whether you are looking for your child’s first music teacher, returning to music after many years away, preparing for a Rockschool exam, or you are an experienced singer wanting a more dependable technique for performing and touring, lessons are built around where you are now and where you would like your music to take you.

Music should challenge us, but it should also be something we look forward to. My aim is to create a relaxed, encouraging environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, trying things, making mistakes and gradually becoming confident, independent musicians.