Performing live music isn’t just about playing notes and singing lyrics—it’s about creating an unforgettable experience for the audience. A strong stage presence can make or break a performance, transforming a good musician into a compelling entertainer. Whether you’re a solo artist or part of a band, mastering stage presence can elevate your shows, engage your audience, and build your reputation as a performer. In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips to help you improve your stage presence and leave a lasting impression.

1. Understand Your Unique Performance Style

Every artist has a unique personality and style. Some musicians thrive on high-energy movements, while others captivate audiences with a mysterious and brooding aura. The key to great stage presence is understanding what works for you and leaning into it authentically.

Identify Your Strengths

• Are you naturally energetic and dynamic? Play into that with bold movements and interactions.
• Do you have a compelling voice and expressive face? Focus on emotive facial expressions and eye contact.
• Are you skilled at storytelling? Engage your audience with anecdotes between songs.

Watch and Learn

Observe performances by artists you admire and analyze what makes them compelling. Do they move a lot? Do they engage in crowd interaction? Take note of what resonates with you and adapt it to your style.

2. Develop Strong Body Language

Body language communicates just as much as your music. A confident stance, purposeful movement, and expressive gestures can captivate an audience and make your performance more engaging.

Maintain Good Posture

• Stand tall with an open stance to exude confidence.
• Avoid crossing your arms or turning away from the audience, as it can create a disconnect.
• If playing an instrument, keep an engaged posture rather than hunching over.

Move with Purpose

• Avoid standing in one place for too long unless it fits the mood of the song.
• Use the stage space to create energy and movement.
• Engage with band members dynamically, making the performance feel cohesive.

3. Engage the Audience

Connecting with the audience is crucial for stage presence. An engaged crowd is more likely to remember your performance and become loyal fans.

Make Eye Contact

Looking at your audience, rather than staring at your instrument or the floor, builds connection. If making direct eye contact feels intimidating, look just above their heads—it will still give the illusion of engagement.

Speak to Your Audience

• Introduce yourself and talk between songs to create a personal connection.
• Share stories about your music or the inspiration behind a song.
• Ask the audience questions or encourage them to sing along.

Encourage Participation

• Use call-and-response sections to get the audience involved.
• Invite crowd clapping or singing during specific parts.
• Point out enthusiastic fans and acknowledge them.

4. Master the Art of Expression

Your facial expressions and gestures should match the emotion of your music. If your lyrics are heartfelt, show vulnerability. If your song is high-energy, let your excitement show.

Match Your Expression to the Mood

• Smile during upbeat songs to project joy and excitement.
• Show intensity and passion in rock or blues performances.
• Keep a relaxed but engaged demeanor during mellow songs.

Use Hand and Arm Gestures

• Point, wave, or reach out to the audience.
• Use exaggerated strumming or drumming movements to enhance the musical energy.
• Gesture toward bandmates to highlight solos or transitions.

5. Overcome Stage Fright

Even experienced performers get nervous, but confidence can be built over time.

Prepare Thoroughly

• Rehearse regularly, practicing as if you’re performing live.
• Record yourself and analyze areas for improvement.
• Familiarize yourself with the venue setup before the show.

Use Relaxation Techniques

• Take deep breaths to calm your nerves.
• Stretch before going on stage to release tension.
• Channel nervous energy into performance energy.

Start Small

• Perform at open mics or small gigs to build comfort.
• Practice in front of friends and family before taking on larger crowds.

6. Dress for the Occasion

Your stage outfit is an extension of your performance. It should complement your music style and help you stand out.

Consider the Genre

• Rock and punk musicians often wear edgy, dark clothing.
• Pop and indie artists may opt for trendy, expressive outfits.
• Folk and acoustic performers might choose a more laid-back, earthy look.

Prioritize Comfort

• Wear something that allows freedom of movement.
• Ensure footwear is comfortable for long performances.
• Test outfits beforehand to avoid wardrobe malfunctions.

7. Interact with Your Bandmates

If you’re performing with a band, chemistry on stage is vital. A band that interacts with each other looks more unified and exciting.

Communicate Non-Verbally

• Use nods and glances to signal transitions.
• Move toward bandmates during instrumental breaks for visual engagement.

Share the Spotlight

• Highlight solos by stepping back and gesturing toward the soloist.
• Avoid over-dominating the stage unless you’re the lead focus.

8. Rehearse Performance Aspects

Practicing music alone isn’t enough—incorporate stage presence into rehearsals.

Perform Like It’s Live

• Run through sets with full energy as if an audience is watching.
• Experiment with movement and interaction during practice.

Film Yourself

• Record performances to spot awkward movements or lack of engagement.
• Identify what’s working and refine your approach.

9. Handle Mistakes Gracefully

Mistakes happen, but how you recover is what matters.

Keep Playing

• If you hit a wrong note, keep going—most people won’t notice.
• Avoid making facial expressions that acknowledge mistakes.

Turn It into a Moment

• Laugh it off if it’s noticeable—it makes you relatable.
• Improvise if you forget lyrics or chords.

10. End with a Bang

A strong closing leaves a lasting impression. Plan a memorable ending to your set.

Build Toward a Climax

• Save an energetic or well-known song for last.
• Engage the crowd for one final singalong.
• Exit the stage confidently, acknowledging the audience.

Final Thoughts

Stage presence isn’t about being the most flamboyant performer—it’s about being engaging, confident, and connected with your audience. By practicing body language, audience interaction, and performance techniques, you can turn a simple set into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft, these tips will help you develop a magnetic stage presence that keeps fans coming back for more. So step onto that stage with confidence, embrace your unique style, and give your audience a performance they won’t forget!

Singing is one of the most natural and beautiful forms of self-expression. Whether you’re dreaming of performing on stage, singing in a choir, or simply improving your vocal abilities for personal enjoyment, voice lessons can be a transformative experience. If you’re new to singing and unsure where to begin, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with voice lessons as a beginner.

Why Take Voice Lessons?

Before diving into the “how,” it’s important to understand why voice lessons are beneficial. While some people may have a natural talent for singing, proper technique and training can take your voice to the next level. Voice lessons can help you:

• Improve your vocal range: Learn to sing higher or lower notes with ease.
• Enhance vocal tone: Achieve a richer, more resonant sound.
• Develop healthy habits: Avoid strain or damage to your vocal cords.
• Boost confidence: Feel more comfortable performing in front of others.
• Understand music theory: Gain a deeper understanding of rhythm, pitch, and harmony.

Step 1: Assess Your Goals

The first step in starting voice lessons is identifying your goals. Are you looking to:

• Sing professionally or join a band?
• Prepare for an audition or competition?
• Sing better at karaoke or in your community choir?
• Build confidence in your voice for public speaking or teaching?

Having clear goals will help you and your teacher focus on what matters most and track your progress effectively.

Step 2: Find the Right Voice Teacher

The right teacher can make all the difference in your vocal journey. Here’s how to find one that suits your needs:

1. Ask for Recommendations: Friends, family, or colleagues who have taken lessons can provide valuable referrals.
2. Research Online: Websites like Thumbtack, Takelessons, or even social media can help you find local or online voice teachers.
3. Check Credentials: Look for teachers with formal training, certifications, or professional experience in singing and teaching.
4. Read Reviews: Student testimonials can offer insights into a teacher’s style and effectiveness.
5. Schedule a Trial Lesson: Many teachers offer introductory lessons to see if their teaching style aligns with your learning needs.

Step 3: Understand the Basics of Voice Lessons

Voice lessons are typically structured to include the following components:

• Warm-ups: Exercises to prepare your voice and body for singing.
• Breath Control: Techniques to improve your breath support and stamina.
• Pitch and Intonation: Training to stay on key and hit the right notes.
• Repertoire Building: Selecting and practicing songs that match your skill level and goals.
• Performance Skills: Learning stage presence and emotional expression.

Step 4: Equip Yourself for Success

While you don’t need expensive equipment to start voice lessons, a few essentials can enhance your experience:

At Home:

• Keyboard or Piano: Useful for practicing scales and pitches.
• Mirror: Helps you observe your posture and facial expressions.
• Recording Device: Allows you to listen to your practice sessions and track progress.
• Hydration: Keep water nearby to stay hydrated while singing.

Online Lessons:

• Reliable Internet Connection: Ensures smooth communication with your teacher.
• Quality Microphone and Headphones: Improves sound clarity during virtual lessons.
• Dedicated Practice Space: Choose a quiet, distraction-free area.

Step 5: Prepare for Your First Lesson

Your first voice lesson can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here are some tips to make the most of it:

1. Dress Comfortably: Wear clothing that allows you to breathe and move freely.
2. Bring a Song: Choose a simple song you’re comfortable singing, as your teacher may ask you to perform it.
3. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to discuss your goals, concerns, or expectations.
4. Be Open to Feedback: Constructive criticism is key to growth.
5. Stay Relaxed: Remember, your teacher is there to help you, not to judge you.

Step 6: Practice Regularly

Consistent practice is crucial to improving your singing. Here are some tips to make your practice sessions effective:

• Set a Schedule: Aim for at least 20-30 minutes of practice, 3-5 times a week.
• Warm Up First: Always start with vocal exercises to prevent strain.
• Focus on Technique: Work on the specific skills your teacher assigns.
• Record Yourself: Listening to your practice sessions can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Be Patient: Progress takes time, so celebrate small victories along the way.

Step 7: Overcome Common Challenges

Many beginners face challenges when starting voice lessons. Here are some tips to address them:

• Nervousness: Practice deep breathing to calm your nerves before singing.
• Voice Cracking: This is normal for beginners; work on breath control and stay hydrated.
• Difficulty Hitting High Notes: Use proper warm-ups and focus on technique rather than forcing your voice.
• Impatience: Remember that improvement takes time and consistent effort.

Step 8: Explore Styles and Genres

One of the exciting aspects of voice lessons is the opportunity to explore different styles of music. Whether you’re drawn to pop, classical, jazz, rock, or musical theater, experimenting with various genres can help you discover your strengths and preferences.

Step 9: Set Milestones and Celebrate Progress

Tracking your progress can keep you motivated and focused. Set small, achievable goals, such as:

• Learning a new song each month.
• Expanding your vocal range by a specific interval.
• Performing in front of friends or family.

Celebrate these milestones to acknowledge your hard work and growth.

Step 10: Stay Committed

Consistency is the key to success in any skill, and singing is no different. Even when progress feels slow, stick with your lessons and practice. Over time, you’ll notice significant improvements in your voice and confidence.

Voice lessons are a rewarding journey that can bring joy, confidence, and self-expression into your life. By setting clear goals, finding the right teacher, and committing to regular practice, you can unlock your full vocal potential. Whether you’re singing for an audience or just for yourself, remember to enjoy the process and celebrate your unique voice. Happy singing!

Performing in front of an audience can be one of the most exciting yet nerve-wracking experiences for music students. Even seasoned musicians experience stage fright, but with preparation and the right mindset, anyone can manage their nerves and deliver a performance they’re proud of. Here are practical tips to help nervous music students shine on stage.

1. Understand and Embrace Nervousness

Feeling nervous before a performance is normal and even beneficial. Nervousness often means you care about doing well. The key is channeling that energy into focus and enthusiasm rather than letting it overwhelm you. Recognize the physical signs of nervousness—like a racing heart or sweaty palms—as natural responses that can be managed.

Pro Tip:

Practice mindfulness or deep-breathing exercises to calm your body and mind. For example, inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. Repeat this a few times before stepping on stage.

2. Prepare Thoroughly

Confidence stems from preparation. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll feel with your material. Break your practice sessions into manageable chunks, focusing on tricky passages and gradually integrating them into the piece.

Actionable Steps:

• Record yourself practicing to identify areas that need improvement.
• Rehearse in front of family or friends to simulate a performance setting.
• Practice walking on and off stage as part of your routine to build familiarity.

3. Visualize Success

Visualization is a powerful tool for building confidence. Imagine yourself performing flawlessly in front of an appreciative audience. This mental rehearsal can help reduce anxiety and reinforce a positive mindset.

How to Visualize:

• Find a quiet space to close your eyes and picture every detail of your performance.
• Focus on the sound of your music, the supportive audience, and the satisfaction you’ll feel afterward.

4. Develop a Pre-Performance Routine

Having a consistent routine can help calm your nerves and signal to your brain that it’s time to perform. Your routine might include warming up, stretching, or listening to calming music.

Example Routine:

• Arrive at the venue early to acclimate to the space.
• Do light stretches to relax your muscles.
• Play a few scales or a simple piece to warm up your fingers and voice.

5. Shift Your Focus

Instead of dwelling on what could go wrong, focus on the music and the story you want to share with your audience. Remember, most people are there to enjoy your performance, not to scrutinize it.

Perspective Shift:

Think of your performance as a gift to your audience. Concentrate on expressing emotions and connecting with listeners rather than achieving perfection.

6. Address Physical Symptoms

Nervousness can manifest physically, making it harder to perform. To counteract these effects, take steps to calm your body.

Tips for Physical Relaxation:

• Stretch your arms, neck, and shoulders to release tension.
• Avoid caffeine or sugar before a performance, as they can increase jitteriness.
• Stay hydrated and eat a light, balanced meal beforehand.

7. Leverage Small Performances

Gradually building up to larger audiences can desensitize you to performance anxiety. Start with informal performances for friends or at small gatherings before taking on bigger stages.

Practice Opportunities:

• Join a local open mic night or community event.
• Volunteer to play at a school assembly or a senior center.
• Record yourself and share the video with a supportive group for feedback.

8. Focus on the Present

Anxiety often stems from worrying about past mistakes or potential future slip-ups. During your performance, concentrate on each note and phrase as it comes.

How to Stay Present:

• Use mental anchors, such as focusing on your breathing or the feel of your instrument.
• If you make a mistake, let it go and keep moving forward. Most audiences won’t notice.

9. Post-Performance Reflection

After your performance, take time to reflect on what went well and what you can improve. Use this as a learning experience to grow as a musician.

Reflective Questions:

• What aspects of your performance felt strong?
• How did you handle moments of nervousness?
• What will you do differently next time?

10. Seek Support and Encouragement

Having a strong support system can make a world of difference. Share your goals and challenges with your teacher, family, and friends.

Build a Support Network:

• Attend performances by your peers to gain inspiration and camaraderie.
• Discuss your feelings with your music teacher; they’ve likely experienced similar nerves.
• Surround yourself with positive people who encourage your growth.

Conclusion

Performance anxiety is a common hurdle for music students, but it can be managed with preparation, practice, and a shift in mindset. By embracing your nerves and focusing on the joy of sharing music, you can transform anxiety into a powerful tool for connecting with your audience. Remember, every performance is a step toward becoming a more confident and expressive musician.

The holiday season is a perfect time to show support for the aspiring vocalists in your life. Whether they’re just starting out or pursuing a serious passion for singing, thoughtful gifts can enhance their musical journey. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best Christmas gifts for vocal students, covering practical tools, fun accessories, and inspiring items.

1. Essential Vocal Gear

a. Microphones
A high-quality microphone is crucial for vocal practice, performances, and recording sessions. Consider these options:

• Shure SM58 – A legendary, durable mic perfect for live performances.
• Audio-Technica AT2020 – A budget-friendly studio mic with excellent sound quality.

b. Pop Filters and Mic Stands
These accessories are essential for recording vocals:

• Pop Filter – Reduces harsh plosive sounds.
• Adjustable Mic Stand – Ensures proper mic positioning during practice or recording.

c. Headphones
Consider studio-quality headphones like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X or Sony MDR-7506, known for clear sound and comfort.

2. Vocal Health and Wellness

a. Steam Inhalers
A personal steam inhaler like MyPurMist can keep vocal cords hydrated and healthy.

b. Throat Sprays and Teas
Gift sets of herbal teas and throat sprays such as Singer’s Saving Grace are thoughtful and practical.

c. Water Bottles
A stylish, insulated water bottle encourages hydration—a must for any vocalist.

3. Music and Learning Resources

a. Sheet Music and Songbooks
Look for collections of popular songs, classical pieces, or musical theater hits that match the student’s style.

b. Vocal Exercise Apps and Software
Consider a subscription to apps like Vocal Coach or Sing Sharp for guided vocal exercises.

c. Music Theory Books
Books like “The Complete Singer’s Guide” or Berklee Music Theory can deepen musical understanding.

4. Home Studio Essentials

a. Portable Recording Equipment
A USB audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 allows home recording with professional-quality sound.

b. Acoustic Treatment Panels
Simple foam panels can improve sound quality by reducing echo and background noise.

c. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) Software
Gift recording software like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, or GarageBand for creating professional tracks.

5. Fun and Personalized Gifts

a. Customized Microphone Accessories
Personalized mic covers or engraved stands add a special touch.

b. Music-themed Jewelry and Apparel
Consider music-note necklaces, T-shirts with singing-related quotes, or cozy hoodies.

c. Vocal-Themed Home Décor
Music-themed wall art, throw pillows, or mugs can brighten a practice space.

6. Experiences and Memberships

a. Vocal Lessons
Consider paying for a few vocal coaching sessions with a reputable teacher.

b. Concert Tickets
Tickets to a live performance can be inspiring and motivational.

c. Masterclass Subscriptions
Online platforms like MasterClass offer singing lessons from renowned artists like Christina Aguilera.

7. Stocking Stuffers for Singers

• Vocal warm-up cards or flashcards.
• Music-themed stationery for jotting down lyrics.
• Keychain tuners or portable pitch pipes.
• Compact travel humidifiers.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect Christmas gift for a vocal student doesn’t have to be challenging. From essential gear and wellness products to personalized keepsakes and learning resources, these thoughtful presents will support their musical development and make their holiday season even more special. Give a gift that helps them hit the right notes and pursue their passion with joy and confidence.

Enrolling kids in summer music programs can have a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond just learning to play an instrument. At Freeway Music, these programs offer a unique opportunity for children to explore their creativity, develop discipline, and enhance their cognitive abilities. Here are some key reasons why summer music programs are important for kids:

1. Creativity and self-expression: Music is a powerful form of self-expression, allowing children to convey emotions, thoughts, and feelings in a creative way. By enrolling in a music program, kids can tap into their creative potential and explore different genres and styles of music.
2. Cognitive development: Learning music has been shown to have a positive impact on cognitive development. It can improve memory, enhance mathematical skills, and increase spatial-temporal skills. Music also helps children develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
3. Discipline and perseverance: Mastering a musical instrument requires dedication, practice, and perseverance. By enrolling in a summer music program, kids learn the value of hard work, discipline, and patience. These qualities can transfer to other areas of their lives, helping them excel academically and professionally.
4. Social skills and teamwork: Many summer music programs involve group activities, such as playing in a band or orchestra. These experiences teach children valuable social skills, such as collaboration, communication, and teamwork. Kids learn to listen to each other, compromise, and work together towards a common goal.
5. Confidence and self-esteem: As children develop their musical skills and see their progress over the course of a music program, their confidence and self-esteem grow. Performing in front of an audience, whether it’s a small group of parents or a larger concert hall, can help kids overcome stage fright and build confidence in themselves.
6. Cultural appreciation: Music is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries. By enrolling in a music program, kids have the opportunity to explore music from different cultures and time periods. This can broaden their perspectives, foster appreciation for diversity, and spark a lifelong love of music.

Overall, enrolling kids in music programs, especially starting in the summer, when they have less on their plate, can have a lasting impact on their personal, social, and academic development. Whether they continue to pursue music as a career or simply enjoy it as a hobby, the benefits of music education are undeniable. If you have the chance to enroll your child in a summer music program, seize the opportunity to help them unlock their full potential and foster a lifelong passion for music.

A Jumpstart for Children’s Development

Music education has long been touted as a valuable tool for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. But just how impactful is it? In this article, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of music education for children, backed by credible studies and research.

Cognitive Benefits:

* Improved memory and spatial-temporal skills (Rauscher et al., 1998)

* Enhanced language development and literacy skills (Forgeard et al., 2008)

* Better math and reading skills (Hetland & Winner, 2001)

Social-Emotional Benefits:

* Improved social skills and teamwork (Hallam, 2010)

* Reduced stress and anxiety (Kruger & Schechter, 2017)

* Enhanced creativity and self-expression (Boden & Mayer, 2009)

Brain Development:

* Increased grey matter volume in auditory and motor areas (Schlaug et al., 2005)

* Stronger neural connections and plasticity (Kraus & Chandrasekaran, 2010)

Conclusion:

The evidence is clear: music education gives children a significant jumpstart in life. By introducing music education early on, parents and educators can help shape young minds, foster creativity, and set the stage for future success. At times, when you’re in the moment- it may feel as though progress is slower than you would expect, but it’s important to remember, music education like anything else, takes time to understand, master and produce results. If we allow ourselves opportunity to enjoy the process, the results will surprise you in such an amazing way.

Nurturing Musical Growth in Children

Learning to play a musical instrument is a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and, most importantly, patience. For children embarking on this adventure, the concept of patience might seem elusive amidst their eagerness to master the instrument quickly. However, understanding the importance of patience in this process is essential for both parents and educators alike.

Patience serves as the cornerstone of a child’s musical development, fostering a positive and enriching learning experience. Rather than focusing solely on achieving immediate results, cultivating patience allows children to embrace the journey of learning an instrument, nurturing their creativity, and building a lifelong passion for music.

One of the key aspects of fostering patience in children learning a new instrument is encouraging them to “play” rather than “practice.” This subtle shift in language can have a profound impact on a child’s perception of the learning process. By framing their musical exploration as play, children are invited to approach the instrument with curiosity, imagination, and a sense of freedom. This mindset shift empowers children to explore the instrument at their own pace, experiment with different sounds, and express themselves creatively without the pressure of perfection.

Here are some practical tips for suggesting children to “play” rather than “practice” when learning a new instrument:

1. Create a Playful Environment: Set the stage for musical exploration by creating a playful and supportive environment. Encourage children to view their instrument as a tool for creative expression rather than a daunting challenge.
2. Embrace Mistakes as Learning Opportunities: Help children understand that making mistakes is an integral part of the learning process. Encourage them to embrace their mistakes, learn from them, and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
3. Encourage Creativity: Foster a spirit of creativity by encouraging children to experiment with the sounds and techniques of their instrument. Provide them with opportunities to improvise, compose their own melodies, and explore different genres of music.
4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Shift the focus from achieving perfection to celebrating progress. Recognize and celebrate each small milestone along the way, whether it’s mastering a new chord, playing a simple melody, or improvising a short tune.
5. Be Patient and Supportive: Above all, be patient and supportive throughout the learning process. Encourage children to enjoy the journey of learning an instrument and reassure them that progress takes time.

By encouraging children to “play” rather than “practice,” we empower them to take ownership of their musical journey, make it their own, and develop a lifelong love for music. Through patience, encouragement, and a playful approach, we can nurture the next generation of musicians and inspire them to unlock their full potential.

Introduction:

In the symphony of a child’s development, music education plays a pivotal role, harmonizing cognitive, emotional, and social growth. As we delve into the orchestration of academic studies, it becomes evident that the influence of music on young minds goes far beyond the notes on a page. Let’s explore the symphonic journey of why music education is not merely a supplemental class but an essential element in the composition of a child’s holistic learning experience.

The Cognitive Crescendo:

Research from renowned institutions such as Harvard and Johns Hopkins has been tuning into the cognitive benefits of music education for years. The brain, akin to a musical instrument, undergoes a transformative tune-up when exposed to the intricacies of music. Studies suggest that children engaged in music education demonstrate enhanced cognitive skills, including improved memory, attention span, and problem-solving abilities.

One notable study, conducted at the University of California, found that children involved in music education showed accelerated development in the areas of language processing and mathematical reasoning. The rhythm and patterns inherent in music seem to create a neural symphony, fine-tuning the brain for more efficient cognitive processing.

The Emotional Overture:

Beyond the realms of academia, music education orchestrates a powerful emotional overture in the lives of children. It serves as a melodic refuge, providing an outlet for self-expression and emotional regulation. Music becomes the soundtrack to a child’s emotional journey, helping them navigate the complex tapestry of feelings.

A study published in the Journal of Research in Music Education discovered that children engaged in music education exhibited higher levels of empathy and emotional intelligence. The collaborative nature of playing in an ensemble cultivates a sense of camaraderie, teaching children the art of listening and responding to the emotions conveyed through music.

The Social Symphony:

In the grand performance of life, the ability to collaborate and communicate is key. Music education, with its emphasis on ensemble playing and group dynamics, becomes the rehearsal ground for these essential social skills. You will find resonance in the transformative power of music education to tip the scales in favor of positive social development.

Research from the National Association for Music Education highlights the social benefits of music education, noting that children engaged in musical activities develop a strong sense of teamwork, discipline, and leadership. The shared pursuit of musical excellence cultivates a sense of belonging, transforming classrooms into harmonious communities.

Conclusion:

In the symphony of a child’s education, music is not merely an optional chord but a fundamental note that resonates across the cognitive, emotional, and social dimensions. Let us acknowledge that the true crescendo of a child’s potential is orchestrated by the transformative power of music education. It’s not just about creating musicians; it is about sculpting minds that resonate with the harmonies of lifelong learning and emotional intelligence. The importance of music education, when understood in this comprehensive light, becomes a powerful testament to the enduring melody that shapes the future of our young minds.

One of my favorite things about being a private voice teacher is developing relationships with my students and watching them grow from week to week. Not only do they grow as singers, but they also just become really cool people. The first lessons are usually the same. I’ll say, “Alright! Tell me what you love about your voice and tell me something about your voice that you hope to improve in our sessions.” 90% of the time they’ll say, “I’m really good at singing on pitch, but I wish I could sing louder.” I always follow that up with explaining that being a great singer is not about being the loudest person in the room (no one wants to stand next to that girl in choir), but it’s about singing both loudly and quietly with power and energy.

Music teachers are always advocating the importance of music lessons for a person’s overall development, but I specifically want to go to bat for voice lessons in this blog. Why should you take voice lessons? Why should you learn how to sing “properly?” Aside from the fact that performing is so much fun, we learn to sing because we want to be better at something. We want to be better at our very first instrument. Today we are going to discuss what we learn about ourselves when we take voice lessons.

We are capable of more than we think.

More often than I would like, when I explain that I teach people how to sing for a living, I get this response. “Oh, you would hate teaching me! I can’t carry a tune in a basket!” I really do believe that singing well is a skill that has to be developed through knowing the right tools. Yes, even tone deaf people! There is no greater feeling than seeing a student’s face light up after discovering their first “real” sound. Their first burst of self-confidence! That sound is the result of having to think about singing in a way that they hadn’t before and just going for it. The most common occurence is finally hitting that note that they didn’t think they could reach. I love being able to look at them and say, “Remember when you couldn’t do that a month ago?! You just sang it like it was nothing!” Through practice, the skill that seemed impossible and then was difficult, eventually became second nature. Singing stretches our physical limits and helps us become more aware that we can learn how to do anything if we just go through the steps!

We become more outgoing.

In voice lessons, we learn that singing is a multi-step process that requires more physical strength than one would think. We learn that we sound our best when we throw caution to the wind and try something new. Also, most voice teachers try to get you feel where your voice resonates by making really loud, silly sounds. I’ll never forget the first time my voice teacher made me sound like a siren. I looked at her and said, “You want me to do what now?!” I realize now that she was trying to get me to make an uninhibited sound powered by maximum breath flow. Voice lessons give us an excuse to be the loudest, most artistic versions of ourselves without fear of embarrassment. In fact, as I type this, I’m thinking of the “Barbaric Yawp” scene from Dead Poets Society when Robin Williams helps Ethan Hawke find his voice. Love that movie! That mindset can help us out when we’re in situations where we have to talk to people we don’t know or talk in front of a large group. When we stop worrying about making a bad sound and put our energy into how to make a great sound, the result is beautiful singing and an awesome performance!

We become more thoughtful artists.

I love that singers get an extra element to their music. Lyrics. Two art forms in one. When we take voice lessons, we get to break away from technique and figure out how to tell a story. Through that we have to have an understanding of the text that passes the need to just memorize words. An audience is going to love a song that’s memorized, but you’ll captivate an audience if you show that you understand a song on a deeper, more personal level. Taking your lyrics, breaking them down, taking that line that makes absolutely no sense and making sense out of it helps to make it your own. Soon you realize that you have a deeper understanding of this song than when you started. Perfecting the performance of a song on so many different levels will help set you apart from what other performers are doing because there is never an interpretation quite like yours!

Related Articles:

“4 Tips for Parents of New Voice Lessons Students”

by Freeway Music Voice instructor Mari Hazel

“5 Tips to Ensure a Great Practice Session for Singers”

by Freeway Music Voice Instructor Mari Hazel

Here is an article from WikiHow about warming up your voice:

Warming Up Your Voice

Say you’re a singer and you have a big performance coming up. You may also have an audition for a singing position, school play, or solo in chorus. You really want to show that you are the best one for the part. You are a mix of emotions: nervous, excited, hopeful, fearful. How do singers do it? How do they get up there in front of complete strangers and deliver a performance that seems seamless, heartfelt, and draws the audience in? 75% of the performance lies in the preparation. The way that we practice, eat, and sleep all effect the voice. The remaining 25% of the performance is effected by what we do on stage, but preparing for your performance in well planned practice time will help the final product! While important to the development of our style, practice can be a frustrating part of our routine. It does not have to be. Here are 5 tips to ensure a great practice session for singers. All of these tips are easy, but must become habit to notice results. Your body is your instrument! You carry your instrument around with you all day everyday, so it’s important to take care of yourself.

Drink all the water!

Stay hydrated. Our body is 60% water. In order to prevent dehydration, you should consume around 8 cups of water per day. This will ensure that your vocal chords stay lubricated and vibrate easily. Some people say to stay away from dehydrating beverages like coffee, tea, and soda; however, if you replace that beverage with an extra cup of water, that should do the trick.

Stretch.

This may seem like a silly way to start of your practice session, but I promise it makes a world of difference. You stretch before a big race, why not singing? The muscular system is connected all throughout your body and, therefore, affects the muscles that make up your vocal chords. Tension in the neck, shoulders, back, and hips can add tension to vocal production. Begin your practice session with stretches that target each of these areas for a more relaxed start. I even include a few minutes of lying on my back and breathing deeply, to feel the rise and fall of my belly, for dual efforts of relaxation and working proper breathing technique.

Be kind to your voice.

Of course there is the advice of refraining from any excessive screaming or shouting, but for singing practice, there is a tip that is just as helpful. The best advice I ever got from one of my voice teachers was to treat a practice session like every day is a fresh start. He would start off each lesson by sitting at the piano and saying, “Let’s see how the voice is doing today.” Your body never quite feels the same from day to day. It can be affected by weather, sickness, or maybe you’re out of sorts because you didn’t get enough sleep the night before. Start small in your practice sessions, maybe with some humming, sirens, or lip trills to explore how the voice is feeling that day. Gradually, increase intensity from there based on what you’re feeling. Over time, the good days will become more consistent.

Frustrated energy is wasted energy.

When our voice isn’t doing what we want it to, we tend to get frustrated! Belting that high D-flat was so easy yesterday! What is the deal?! When you feel this shift in your practice, this is a good time to stop and take a minute to breathe. We want to do it over and over again until it’s perfect, but singing with frustration is singing with muscular tension. The same teacher I mentioned above, when I would get frustrated in a lesson, would look at me and say, “And how’s that working for you?” He was so right. In the long run, it’s bad for your voice and doesn’t help you sing any better. Remember to stop, breathe, and go back to your basic fundamentals. You also have the option to stop, take a break, and come back to it.

End on a good note.

Pardon the terrible pun, but it’s good for your morale to finish a practice session with a song with which you are not only comfortable, but that you also love. Finish your practice with something that reminds you of why you sing in the first place, because, after all is said and done, THAT is what you want to give to your audience. Frankly, no one cares if your belted high D-flat is perfect if there isn’t any soul in it. Remember that singing is hard work, but it should also be fun! You should always leave your practice session with a little extra pep in your step because you worked hard! Because you had a productive practice, you are a better singer than you were an hour ago!