Student's Perspective Part I: Don't be afraid... Make the UGLY sounds!

How long have you been taking lessons? (# of lesson OR months OR years)

I’ve been taking lessons for around a year. 

Why are you taking lessons?

Singing was something I was always interested in since I was young, however, I never actually had the self confidence to do it until I became an adult. As a teenager, there was even a point where I was so shy and soft spoken that people more often than not told me that they could not hear me. I’m taking lessons because I want to challenge every thought in my head that tells me that I am not allowed to feel emotion, be vulnerable, and take space in this world. Having a teacher like Andy guide me through this whole process while providing me with the proper technical instruction has brought me so much more enjoyment than if I were to do this alone.

What do you love most about voice lessons?

I love being able to laugh about things such as my voice cracking. To me, it shows that I really am trying and it’s only going to get better from here. Taking lessons is giving me the confidence that I am going to improve as long as I keep practicing. 

What have you learned in your lessons? (technically, personally, physically, musically, anything)

I have learned proper breathing technique, proper posture, how to utilize different vocal registers, and how to correct bad habits that I might have while singing. I’m also learning how to sing different styles of music as well.

What advice would you give to someone considering taking lessons?

Do it. It’s going to be so much easier to progress if you have a teacher. They are simply going to hear and see things that you most likely would not notice about yourself and help you reach your goals at a faster rate by giving you customized exercises and corrections.

If you could go back in time to your first lesson what advice would you give yourself?

Don’t be scared. It’s good practice being vulnerable enough to sing in front of another person. Just focus on having fun and KNOW that you will improve as long as you keep practicing, no matter what anyone says about your voice.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Don’t give up because you think you suck. I think that’s a terrible reason to quit something. If you enjoy singing, keep practicing no matter how you sound. Everyone has potential.