Interview with HELENA MAY

photo: ©  Martin Steiger

For International Women’s Day on March 8, 2026, we celebrate women who inspire not only through their talent, but through their dedication to empowering others. British-born singer, vocal coach, and performer Helena May is one of those remarkable artists. With years of experience on stage and in the classroom, she combines artistic excellence with a deep passion for teaching. As a professional actor, vocalist, and lecturer in singing and performance, Helena May has worked across a wide range of educational institutions, shaping the voices and confidence of countless students. Today, she teaches Vocal Performance at the Vienna Music Institute, where she continues to inspire the next generation of female performers.

Balancing her international artistic career with her commitment to education, Helena May stands for authenticity, strength, and artistic integrity - values that resonate powerfully on International Women’s Day and beyond.

International Women’s Day & Personal Meaning

International Women’s Day is about visibility and empowerment. What does this day mean to you personally – as a woman, an artist, and a lecturer?

Happy International Women’s Day, loves! ❤️

For me, it’s a day of visibility and gratitude. As a woman, it’s about recognising how far we’ve come - but also acknowledging that there’s still space to grow, to challenge, to support one another. As an artist, it reminds me that our voices matter. The stories we tell, the songs we write, the emotions we dare to share - they all contribute to a bigger conversation.

And as a lecturer, it feels even more meaningful. I get to witness the next generation of women finding their voices in real time. That’s powerful. Being part of that journey, even in a small way, is something I don’t take lightly.

Women in the Music Industry

The music industry has evolved significantly in recent years. Where have you seen real progress for women, and where do you think more work still needs to be done?

I’m genuinely so happy to see more and more female artists shining - not just centre stage, but behind the scenes too. Producers, engineers, songwriters, executives - we’re seeing more women stepping into spaces that historically have felt closed off. That visibility really matters. That said, there’s still work to do. Equal representation, fair pay, and safe creative environments shouldn’t be “goals” - they should be standard. I think the key now is consistency. Not just moments of progress, but sustained change.

Challenges as a Female Musician

Have you experienced any particular challenges because you are a female musician?

I think the music industry holds challenges for everyone, but there can be additional layers when you’re a woman. Sometimes it’s subtle - expectations about image, about how you “should” sound or present yourself. Over time, I’ve learned that clarity in who you are artistically is your anchor. The more confident you become in your own vision, the less those outside pressures shake you. It’s taken growth - but I feel stronger for it.

Role Models and Mentors

Were there any female artists, mentors, or role models who particularly shaped your path?

There are so many incredible female artists who have inspired me - women who are unapologetically themselves and lead with both strength and vulnerability. Josh Stone, Chaka Khan, Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin, Nikka Costa, Ella Fitzgerald, RAYE to name a few. I’ve also been shaped by mentors who encouraged independence - who reminded me that artistry isn’t about fitting a mould, but about honouring your own voice. That lesson stays with me daily.

Teaching & Artistic Journey

You are both a vocalist and a lecturer at VMI. How does teaching influence your own artistic journey?

I’m still learning so much when working with aspiring singers and songwriters. Teaching keeps me curious. There’s something really special about that professional rapport between mentor and student - witnessing personal breakthroughs, helping someone discover a unique quality in their voice, or supporting them in defining their own vision.

I love being a cheerleader. Helping unlock someone’s potential is incredibly fulfilling - and honestly, it reminds me to keep unlocking my own.

New Album – Themes

Your new album is being released. Is there a thematic connection between the album and ideas such as strength, identity, or self-determination?

Definitely. Puzzle Pieces explores identity in a really honest way. It’s about recognising that we’re all made up of different parts - experiences, relationships, doubts, strengths - and learning to embrace them rather than trying to smooth them out.

There’s strength in self-acceptance. The album really leans into that idea: that you don’t need to be “perfectly put together” to be whole.

New Album – Sound and Message

If you had to describe the sound and message of your new album in three words, what would they be?

Honest.

Empowering.

Evolving.

Comparison to Previous Work

How does this album differ from your previous projects, both musically and personally?

This album feels more grounded. I’ve allowed myself to be more transparent — lyrically and emotionally.  Musically, there's confidence in the production choices. I wasn’t trying to chase anything; I was focused on creating something that felt authentic to where I am now. A further, evolved version of myself after my first studio album - Funkalicious. It feels like growth - not just as an artist, but as a person.

Live Performance vs. Studio Work

Performing live is very different from working in the studio. What does being on stage and connecting directly with the audience mean to you?

I absolutely love the atmosphere of a live show - the energy exchange is something you just can’t recreate in a studio. There’s so much potential in those moments to create beautiful memories, both for the audience and for me. One of my recent highlights has been hearing people sing the words back at the ‘Helena May’ shows. It’s such a special feeling knowing the songs have found a home with someone else.

Advice for Young Female Musicians

What message would you like to share with young female musicians who are just beginning their careers?

Aim to enjoy the journey as much as you can - through the highs and the lows, because there will be both. Comparison really is the thief of joy. Stay true to you - your story, your authenticity, your artistry. The industry may try to tell you who to be, but your uniqueness is your power. Protect it.

photo: ©  Jules Hofer

Talented women - working with Helena May together :

Jules Hofer Photographer @julesphotoadventure

Sarah Smrzek Hair & Make-up @sarahsillusion

Aysera Nail Artist / Artwork Illustrator @ayseratopia

Jennifer Milleder Costume Designer @jennifermilleder