In the past, most professional music and singing lessons were done formally. Formal meaning they had to be from a recognized music school and the participants were given certificates at the end of the training. That was then.
Currently, there are so many ways to explore your singing skills. This post looks at some of them, including their pros and cons, so that you can make an informed decision when taking singing classes.
In-Person Singing Classes
This is the most common and oldest way of taking singing classes. You get a vocal coach and organize for regular lessons during which you are taught how to sing well and a host of many other things that you need to do to become an excellent singer. These include taking care of your vocal health, and the best ways to do your vocal exercises.
Pros
When you attend singing classes in person, it’s easy for your teacher to hear you and check on other issues like your posture. You will also understand better because you have very close contact. He or she will be able to quickly identify any problems you have and address them promptly. Qualities of sound like projection can be properly dealt with in person.
Cons
In-person singing classes are not flexible. They require that both you and your teacher make a schedule and stick to it. Failure to do this results in lack of progress.
Types of In-Person Singing Classes
In-person classes can be categorized into either group or private singing classes. The following are the pros and cons of group classes versus private.
Pros
Company: For group classes, you will be in the company of other students and it’s usually more fun than when you’re just alone.
Cost: Group classes are usually cheaper than private ones.
The pros are that you’re not alone. It’s really nice to know that other people can be on this journey with you, and it’s way cheaper [than private lessons]. Via Take Lessons
Cons
Non-specific: The teacher will usually make lessons that are more general in nature so that everyone benefits.
The cons are that the classes are not customized, so if you’re a level that’s higher or lower than the class is designed for, you may find yourself either wandering off because you get a little bit bored, or you could get frustrated because it’s just a lot of information at one time. Via Take Lessons
Progress: Since it is a group class, you may not move at your own pace.
Secondly, you can’t cover as much information just because it is geared towards the general populace of the class and it’s not one-on-one. Via Take Lessons
Online Singing Classes
The benefits of technology have affected every aspect of life; education, health, music, politics, sports and even art. When it comes to singing classes, you can also have them online. Online singing classes can be done one-on-one or in a group. There are certain things that you need to be aware of as you consider taking an online class:
Qualification: It depends on what the teacher offers and the level you have reached. For Reina, her lessons are for anyone at any level.
I get young students, old students, beginner students, advanced students, hobby singers, and professionals. Via Take Lessons
Excellence: Excelling in an online singing class or in-person class demands that you put a lot of time into the same thing – practice!
The type of student that excels in group classes is the type of student that can take notes, asks questions, and practices the information and techniques that they’ve learned. Via Take Lessons
Pros
Convenience: The best thing about online classes is that you can have them anywhere and at any time, provided you have the necessary equipment for that.
…you’re more likely to show up because you can be in your jammies, it could be raining outside, and all you have to do is turn on your device. Via Take Lessons
Accessibility: Regardless of your location or circumstances, you are not hindered from having your lessons.
…you can take lessons anywhere; as long as you have an internet connection and an up-to-date device, you’re good to go. Via Take Lessons
Cons
Technical issues: This is probably the greatest hindrance. If you don’t have the internet connection or speed, you will not access the classes.
Sometimes there can be technical difficulties so it’s really important to test your internet strength and to use the most up-to-date device that you have. Via Take Lessons
The lack of personal touch with your teacher could also be another downside:
The cons would be that the teacher can’t give you a hug at the end of class and tell you what a good job you did. You can get an online high five, but it’s not the same. Via Take Lessons
Conclusion
There isn’t just one right way of taking singing classes. You just need to consider your circumstances and choose what works best for you, and then you’re good to go. All the best!
Featured Image: Image Credit
Yubin’s father used to drive her from San Jose to Los Angeles every weekend just for her singing & dancing lessons. #Yubinfacts
— ♥ONLY YUBIN♥온리 유빈♥ (@onlyYUBIN) December 21, 2016
I’ve been working hard this year, getting better at singing and dancing and I just started taking piano lessons... Still haven’t given up ! pic.twitter.com/vSGvdgDoPL
— Jae Cruz (@jaime_cruzroman) December 21, 2016
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