Sam Marlow: Founder of City Vocal Coach & Leading UK Voice and Songwriting Teacher
Sam Marlow is a highly regarded vocal and songwriting coach, recognised as one of the UK’s top educators in the field. His journey into vocal coaching was spurred by his own experiences as a signed artist, where a demanding touring schedule highlighted the crucial need for robust vocal health and performance techniques. This personal understanding of a singer’s challenges led him to develop an approach to vocal training, emphasising not just warm-ups and technique but also tools for recovery, performance techniques and songwriting.
Sam’s extensive teaching career includes significant roles at prestigious institutions. He teaches voice and songwriting at The Brit School for Performing Arts and has previously lectured at ELAM (East London Arts and Music Academy) and ICMP (The Institute of Contemporary Music Performance). At ICMP, he also earned a Master’s degree in Songwriting, deepening his understanding of creative processes and exploring how diverse artistic inspirations, such as painting, can inform sonic creations. This academic background, combined with his practical experience as a musician, provides him with a comprehensive insight into what it takes to succeed in the music industry.
At City Vocal Coach, Sam has cultivated a supportive community where students can develop their vocal technique, build confidence, and connect with other passionate singers. He believes in empowering students to become active participants in their learning, guiding them to discover their own unique voices and helping them achieve their creative goals. His dedication to continuous learning is evident in his exploration of diverse musical genres, from his earlier influences in rock and metal to his current appreciation for jazz artists like Billie Holiday and Nina Simone and Chet Baker.
Sam’s commitment to education extends beyond formal teaching; he actively seeks opportunities to incorporate cutting-edge research into his teaching practices and frequently collaborates with other musicians and artists. Through City Vocal Coach, he fosters an environment where curiosity is celebrated, questions are encouraged, and mistakes are viewed as valuable learning opportunities, ultimately aiming to equip students with the skills and confidence to thrive in the dynamic world of music.
