If you have ever been asked about how to teach voice lessons to adults, you may be wondering what the best methods are. The basic principles are to teach them how to sing, but what else should you cover? This article will cover Technique, Tone, Note reading, and Vocal anatomy. Here are some tips:
Technique
While most voice teachers teach beginner lessons, advanced students should learn exercises that will help them balance the three voice registers: chest, middle, and head. Many singers overdevelop one or all of these areas, which causes the rest of the voice to sound hollow and unattractive. By learning exercises to help balance these areas, students can work toward having more power and resonance and creating a more pleasing sound. In addition, voice lessons should help students become aware of their bodies and how they affect their vocal abilities.
Tone
One of the most important things to remember when teaching voice lessons to adults is the concept of tone. Tone is the distinctive sound of the voice and is directly related to how you breathe and the way you sing. There are many elements of voice placement that can affect tone and sound resonance in the airways. For example, cutting off air flow through the nose results in a nasal tone. Your instructor will work with you to create proper singing tone.
Note reading
The process of teaching note reading is different from that of teaching a younger child. The youngest student may be able to perform some of the exercises easily. Adults should not be expected to learn these skills as quickly as children. A typical lesson lasts about 60 minutes. The instructor should have an understanding of the voice type and style of the student. Adults are more apt to learn difficult scale degrees and lip trills.
Vocal anatomy
You might wonder: how to teach voice lessons to adults? Having taught children, adults, and young adults in the past, I know how daunting the first lesson can be. The first lesson is like starting a new relationship, where you’ll be working towards a common goal. Moreover, there are a lot of things you have to take care of, and you’ll probably forget some of the most crucial aspects.
Singing exercises
Singing exercises for adults should be performed by singing in the open and using the chest and head voices. This will help develop a full, clear sound. Practice singing the word “gee” in the octave below the pitch you want to reach. Once you’ve perfected this exercise, you can add a range to your singing by adding a lower and higher note.
Repertoire
For adults, the repertoire chosen for their lessons will depend on their personal taste and their own technical needs. Younger students will be learning the basics of note recognition, breathing, and rhythm, while older students will focus on note reading and proper technique. Throughout the course of their lessons, they will have opportunities to participate in recitals, as well as participate in community events and aural training. In addition, advanced students will perform in vocal adjudications, where they can compete with their peers from across the country.