You may be wondering how to give voice lessons to your students. Perhaps you attended music school and you were assigned a teacher. If you did, it’s probably the first time you’ve worked with a student directly. In any case, it’s important to give each student the attention they deserve. Here are some tips for your voice lessons. Listed below are some tips for teaching students how to sing. In addition, you’ll learn how to choose songs and exercises.
Exercises
Whether you’re studying for your first audition or are a seasoned veteran of voice classes, vocal exercises are a must. They not only relax and strengthen vocal chords, but also aid in developing musical ear training. If you want to enhance your voice, begin with simple breathing exercises. These exercises will vary in length and intensity depending on the level of your pupil. They should also help develop an acute awareness of the body and breath.
Warm-ups
In the era of the internet, vocal teachers are encouraged to use warm-up exercises. However, the importance of vocal warm-ups can’t be overstated. Many vocalists believe that warm-up exercises are necessary for effective singing. According to voice professor Jennifer Aylmer, vocal warm-ups are organically formed traditions. European singers of the 1900s found it difficult to move smoothly from talking to singing.
Song selection
The best song selection for voice lessons is based on your vocal range. You should pick songs that you can sing comfortably within your range and that are familiar to you. It also helps if you choose songs with familiar melodies, since you’ll be able to identify inaccuracies in the melody if there are any. Your vocal instructor can point these out, as well as other details embedded in the sheet music. Before starting your lessons, make sure you have warmed up and prepared.
Recording
Recording voice lessons is an excellent way to improve your technique and gain valuable feedback from your instructor. These days, almost everyone has a smartphone or tablet. With the advent of modern technology, this practice has become even more convenient. Besides, most people already carry a recording device around with them. Recording your lessons can be a helpful way to improve your voice while practicing at home. Here are some tips for recording your voice lessons:
Payment
Some voice teachers may specialize in particular genres or styles. For example, some prefer opera, while others specialize in folk or commercial music. While it’s helpful to know your instructor’s preferences, be sure to consider their reputation and their fees before deciding on a particular teacher. For example, Peter Mark, a world-renowned opera conductor and former chief bot soprano at the Met Opera, charges $100/hour for his voice lessons.