Each student we teach is unique, so your vocal lessons are tailored to the goals and learning style of the individual. But you can generally expect a few things from your voice lessons.
The Process
Common Vocal Myths
VOICE TEACHERS ONLY CONCENTRATE ON PRODUCING AN OPERATIC SOUND. I’M INTERESTED IN POP AND ROCK, SO LESSONS ARE NOT FOR ME.
It is certainly true that some voice teachers concentrate on the classical sound. However, many successfully teach pop, rock, musical theater, R&B, metal (yes, scream-singing is a difficult, but learnable technique) and every other style out there.
BELTING IS BAD FOR YOU, AND IT SHOULD BE AVOIDED AT ALL COSTS. SINGERS SHOULD ONLY SING IN THEIR HEAD VOICES.
It is true that belting with poor technique can be damaging, but healthy belting exists. Learning to belt without constriction, by using great breath control and retracting what’s called your false vocal folds, is both healthy and widely used by artists with long careers. First and foremost, it’s important to listen to your body when you sing in any style. Singing should feel comfortable, and you should back off and regroup when you start to feel tension.
CHILDREN SHOULD WAIT TILL PUBERTY TILL THEY BEGIN VOICE LESSONS. ANYTHING EARLIER THAN THAT CAN DAMAGE THEIR VOICES.
While children should not work rigorously to extend their range before puberty, kids should absolutely start voice lessons early. Think of it this way: if your child shows interest in singing, she or he will sing, regardless of whether signed up for lessons. Wouldn’t it be better to form good habits and healthy technique early? The Pennsylvania Academy of Otolaryngology has this to say about childhood voice lessons:
“Voice abuse during childhood may lead to problems that persist throughout a lifetime. It is extremely important for children to learn good vocal habits, and for them to avoid voice abuse. This is especially true among children who choose to participate in vocally taxing activities such as singing, acting and cheerleading. Many promising careers and vocal avocations have been ruined by enthusiastic but untrained voice use. For children with vocal interests, age-appropriate training should be started early.”
OLD DOGS CAN’T LEARN NEW TRICKS. I DIDN’T START LESSONS AS A KID, AND NOW IT’S TOO LATE.
There is nothing physical or mental standing in the way of your learning. Adults can make astounding improvements just like kids if they practice diligently and regularly.
IF YOU CAN'T CARRY A TUNE, YOU'RE PROBABLY TONE DEAF.
Only a tiny fraction of the population (under 2%) is actually tone-deaf. There’s a lot of coordination and muscle memory that goes into singing. A lack of visual and auditory feedback makes it even harder to develop this coordination. There’s nothing magical about learning to sing. It’s all about diligence and practice, and pretty much everyone can learn.
IF YOU'RE A FEMALE WHO CAN'T SING HIGH, YOU'RE AN ALTO AND SHOULD JUST CHOOSE LOW SONGS.
Well, your school choir director may have put you with the altos, but it’s waaaay more likely that you’re a soprano who hasn’t learned to access your high notes yet. Being able to hit high notes has much more to do with breath control and learned coordination than it does with voice type.
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How it Works
TIV is the world’s most accessible and professional vocal and music studio. Our lesson options fit every lifestyle, budget, and goal.
Our Philosophy
We are committed to the art and science of vocal and music instruction. We believe the best style of music to learn is the one you love.
Why TIV
Our teachers are professionals. Our methods are evidence based. Our customer service is five star. We believe music is a health and wellness journey.
Molly's Music
The Inside Voice emerged from our twelve plus years of experience running Molly’s Music, a small family business built with love, sweat, and friends.
