Many times in dealing with clients or other professional musicians I have mentioned, during the process of scheduling something, that I have a voice lesson. Nine times out of ten the listener believes that I am referring to a lesson that I plan to teach. But in truth, I do not teach voice. I can coach a singer, but as far as art and science of teaching proper technique is concerned, I’m still just a student.

Yes, I still take voice lessons. Granted, I take lessons for proper technique “maintenance” more than anything else, but I find it incredibly beneficial to have an educated teacher listen to me and WATCH me sing. Your body is your instrument so proper posture and muscle engagement is as important to the quality of your sound (and your endurance) as is the condition of your chords.

For all aspiring professional singers out there, I cannot encourage you enough to get regular voice check-ups. Some of you are my colleagues and sing regularly but have never had a voice lesson in your life. Don’t want until you’ve abused your voice so much that can’t get through your gig before you begin to realize that you need help. Remember the cliché: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

(Please feel free to email me directly if you would like referrals to voice teachers, even out of town. I would be happy to, at the very least, point you in the right direction)

-rebecca