On Work Ethic, Mics Cutting Out & How New Singers Cut Through the Noise with Laura Wright

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Laura Wright is a British singer and recording artist best known for classical and choral repertoire, crossover performances, and live appearances at major sporting events. She began singing young, learning by ear and developing a natural instinct for harmony through family car journeys. Laura won BBC Songs of Praise Young Chorister of the Year as a teenager, which led to national performances and recording opportunities, including being in the classical-crossover group All Angels. She later trained at the Royal College of Music, building the technique and stamina needed for a long career. Alongside concerts and recordings, Laura is closely associated with stadium anthems and ceremonial performances, and she supports the growth of women’s sport through music.

Episode summary

In this episode of The Variety Show, Adam Sternberg talks with singer Laura Wright about the early moments that shaped her voice, from harmonising in the car as a child to performing in high-pressure live settings. Laura shares how winning Young Chorister of the Year opened doors to broadcast performances and major opportunities, then led into All Angels and eventually formal training at the Royal College of Music. They discuss nerves and breath control, what happens when live performances go wrong, and how emotion and grief can affect the voice over time. Laura also explains how her love of sport became part of her career, from singing at landmark matches to supporting women’s sport, and she reflects on fame, reviews, and staying grounded.

00:00 Intro to Laura Wright

00:01:04 Early memories of singing, harmonies, and musical upbringing

00:04:10 The moment Laura realised singing could move people emotionally

00:07:40 Young Chorister of the Year and the first big break

00:12:25 Nerves, breath control, and the risk of live performance

00:15:00 When things go wrong: mic failures and adapting in the moment

00:18:34 All Angels, touring young, and the realities of the industry

00:22:00 Royal College of Music, training, and the opera question

00:31:04 Sport, stadium anthems, and women’s sport

00:46:15 Vocal warm-ups, Adam’s lesson, and advice for young performers

What is The Variety Show?

The Variety Show is a celebration of the extraordinary people who bring live performance to life. Each week, host Adam Sternberg sits down with a dazzling range of guests – from magicians to contortionists, gospel singers to tap dancers to uncover the real stories behind their craft. How do artists decide to dedicate their lives to performing? What inspires them, challenges them, and keeps them coming back to the stage? Through intimate conversations, Variety gives listeners a behind-the-curtain look at the journeys, passions, and influences that shape today’s performers. Whether you’re a fan of live entertainment, a lover of the arts, or simply curious about the paths less traveled, this podcast offers a fresh perspective on the world of performance.

If you have any comments about the podcast or are a performer who wants advice please do email [e-mail]