Vocal FAQ’s – OperaLady Piano and Voice

What do you focus on during lessons? Each student has different needs, and lessons are tailored to each individual singer. However, I won’t let you get away without working on proper vocal technique, musicality, and interpretation. We’ll also work together on communicating emotion to your audience. You’ll learn to sing without injury. You’ll learn great phrasing, tone, resonance, and natural vibrato. We will work on safely increasing your range and your strength. You’ll develop both your chest and head voice. We’ll also conquer your break.

What should I bring to our first meeting? Bring sheet music for a song you are comfortable with and that you feel is good for your voice. (This is not an audition! I just need to hear what you sound like.) Also bring a folder or 3 ring binder, and something to record with (digital recorder, phone). All lessons should be recorded. Singers need to hear what they sound like; recordings also refresh your memory once you are home and working on your own. In addition, before our first session, take some time to think about what your goals are and what you want to accomplish.

Is it possible for me to increase my range? In most cases, yes. While every voice has natural limitations, most singers do not use their entire range. I haven’t met a singer yet that I couldn’t help discover new notes.

I have no experience at all! Can you help me? Yes! While we can all sing to some degree, to sing with skill is a learned craft. You are not expected to know how to sing when you walk into a lesson…that’s what I’m here for!

I have no aspirations to be a professional. Would I be wasting my time with lessons? Never. Most singing students don’t want to be the next Celine Dion. They sing simply because they love to. It’s their hobby and perhaps their passion. Whether or not you want to go “big time,” taking lessons can greatly increase your enjoyment of singing because it makes singing easier. You’ll also sound better!

I have a child who wants to sing. Would lessons be appropriate? The short answer is yes of course! My approach to teaching a child is different than young adults and older. I do not use the same vocal techniques for increasing range and projection. We’ll focus on general musicianship, matching pitches, and singing with musicality using age appropriate liturature.

Vocal Tips

Record yourself singing your pieces.
Speak at your own, natural pitch
Support your speaking, as well as your singing voice
Get plenty of rest
Drink lots of water
Avoid caffeine; it dries your cords
If undergoing surgery, insist that the intubation be performed by someone well acquainted with the risk to the vocal folds

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