What is a Voice Teacher?
Simply put, a voice teacher or singing teacher is a musical instructor who trains individuals in the art of singing. Voice Teaching generally involves teaching breath control and support, creation of proper tone, how to control pitch and musical intonation, the correct formation of consonants and vowels, paying attention to musical notation and phrasing, and the learning of songs.
Types of Voice Instruction
A major part of voice instruction is for the voice teacher to recognize a student’s vocal characteristics well enough to determine their voice type. Typically, women can be classified in one of three different categories; soprano, mezzo-soprano, and contralto. Men’s voices are typically divided into four categories. Those being countertenor, tenor, baritone, and bass.
Voice Coaching
Even more experienced singers who have years of professional training, can usually benefit greatly from ongoing vocal instruction. This type of instruction is most often referred to as vocal coaching. Vocal Coaches help students to;
- expand vocal tools
- learn proper diction in different languages
- improve singing technique
- take care and develop their voice
- prepare for the performance of a song
Voice Teacher Training and Education
Training and Education for voice instruction varies greatly among voice teachers. Voice insturctors are generally trained in vocal pedagogy, the study of teaching singing and many are members of the National Association of Teachers of Singing. Some voice teachers have extensive formal training. Examples include a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Music, a Conservatory diploma, many varying degrees in related areas such as foreign languages, or diplomas in human kinetics, posture techniques, or breathing methods.
Conversely, voice instructors may have little or no formal training. As such, they rely on their extensive experience as a performer or working with other voice instructors for experience. Some voice instructors have years or extensive stage experience prior to becoming voice teachers, in recitals, oratorios, operas, operettas, or musical theater. While voice instructors without formal training or extensive experience as a performer are mainly found in the popular music styles, they also exist in the Classical milieu.
Additionally, many voice instructors evolve into the teaching profession through related musical professions. Some began as rehearsal musicians and gained real life experience accompanying and assisting singers with thier performance and doing so in many different styles. Some voice instructors came to the profession by starting as choral, music theater, or symphony conductors.
Help finding a Voice Coach, Teacher, or Instructor
Whether you are looking for a classically trained and education professional, an experienced performer, or a seasoned veteran of working with performers, FireStarNY can help you fine the voice teacher that will help you succeed. We have many different types of Vocal Coaches, with a variety of extensive experience, all who provide the utmost in professional instruction and coaching. Contact us today to learn more about the Voice Instructors we have available.