Module 2 Lesson 7: Maximizing Your Vocal Potential: Finding The Right Teacher
Go Deeper/Links:
Transcription
I want to end this lesson by underlining something significant about artistry and technique. You can, and should, make any sounds you want to for artistic reasons. Breathy, gravelly, shout-singing, are all OK if you are making those sounds on purpose, AND if you can clean up your voice every day and sing a sound without any noise in it. A clean vocal sound tells you that your instrument is healthy and working efficiently. I want you to be able to sing throughout your life without any issues, and I know you want that for yourself. Proper vocal technique gives the artist in you a strong foundation from which to sing.
VOICE TEACHERS/COACHES
As you know, this course is not about teaching you how to sing. But as you’ve learned in this lesson, how you sing is crucial. There’s always more to learn. I recommend that you study with a voice teacher who is well versed in vocal anatomy and the function of the vocal mechanism. How do you know if a teacher knows their stuff?
The most crucial question they should be able to answer is Why. Why are you doing the exercises they’re asking you to do? What are they doing for your voice on a functional level? They also should be able to tell you why they’re making changes to how you’re singing songs and repertoire. Some of their answers might be about artistry, and that’s legit. But if they’re teaching you vocal technique, their answers should give you insight into the purpose behind the sounds you’re being asked to sing.
Your voice is important to you. Make sure you do your due diligence when searching for a teacher. Sometimes that’s not an easy task. If a teacher can tell you why they’re asking you to do the things that they’re asking you to do — and your voice is improving, you’re on the right track.
Never be afraid to ask questions. And, if you’re not satisfied with the answers, get a second opinion. Stay curious. Understanding your miraculous instrument and how it works is a lifetime pursuit.
Confused about the difference between a voice teacher and a voice coach? There’s a link to an article in the lesson notes that will answer that question.
The first two lessons in this module contained a lot of heady stuff. In the next lesson, we’ll take a break from our brains and get back into our bodies with a Whole Body Warm-Up for Singers. See you there!
