What Is A Vocal Coach? An Ultimate Blog On Vocal Coaching

A vocal coach is your secret weapon. They help singers improve their voices in all sorts of ways.

It helps you everywhere, not just on stage. It’s great for public speaking, acting, and even overcoming shyness.

This post is about vocal coaching. I’ll discuss how coaches improve their voices.

Whether you want to be a singer or are just curious about how singers become so good, this post is for you.

Key Takeaways

– A vocal coach helps improve your singing technique, making your voice sound smoother and stronger.

– They don’t just teach you to sing; they help you build confidence and perform better on stage.

– A vocal coach offers tailored advice, focusing on your unique strengths and areas for improvement.

– Proper technique, guided by a vocal coach, can prevent vocal strain and keep your voice healthy.

– They assist in choosing songs that suit your voice and style, ensuring you showcase your best self.

– Vocal coaches have varied backgrounds and offer specialized coaching based on your needs.

– Even experienced singers benefit from a coach as they continue learning and refining their craft.

What Is A Vocal Coach?

A vocal coach helps singers get better at singing and prepare for shows.

As Ella Fitzgerald said, “THE ONLY THING BETTER THAN SINGING IS MORE SINGING!” 

A vocal coach helps singers understand their songs and how to move around on stage. Some coaches even help pick new songs to learn.

5 Benefits Of A Vocal Coach

Let’s discover why a vocal coach might be amazing for your singing.

1. Improved Vocal Technique

Consider your voice a cool instrument, but it needs practice to sound amazing. A vocal coach can help you, like a mechanic for your voice. 

They’ll teach you to breathe, warm up, and hit those high notes. No more squeaky singing, just smooth and easy like magic.

2. Increased Confidence And Self-Expression

Imagine you’re on stage, everyone is looking at you, and the spotlight is blinding! Are you feeling scared?

You may have a singing teacher/vocal coach.

They don’t just help you sing well; they help you be brave. They’ll cheer you on and show you what to do so you can sing with feeling and show off your voice.

3. Enhanced Performance Abilities

A vocal coach can help you do more than sing. They can turn you into a performer that grabs everyone’s attention. 

They’ll teach you to be confident on stage and feel the emotions in your songs.

With their help, you’ll be able to amaze any crowd and have them wanting more.

4. Preventing Vocal Strain And Injury

Singing high notes can be hard on your vocal cords, which are the parts that make sound. 

A vocal coach can teach you to sing correctly so you won’t hurt yourself. This way, you can keep singing without worry.

5. Personalized Feedback And Support

A vocal coach isn’t just someone who gives general tips. 

They’ll listen to your voice, see what you’re good at, and what needs work. With their knowledge and support, you can take on any singing challenge. 

They’ll be there for you through tough times and celebrate your successes. They want to help you become the best singer you can be.

What Does A Vocal Coach Do?

You must wonder about a vocal coach’s role and what he does. As a vocal coach, I can help you understand it simply. 

Let’s break it down.

1. Guidance In Vocal Technique

It’s all about mastering those vocal techniques when singing like a pro. 

A vocal coach is like your GPS, guiding you through the twists and turns of vocal prowess.

– They’ll show you the ropes of proper breathing techniques so you can easily belt out those high notes.

– Vocal warm-ups: These exercises are like stretching before a big race. They get your vocal cords limber and ready to rock. 

Fear not if you’ve ever struggled with hitting the right pitch or tone. Your vocal coach is here to fine-tune your sound and ensure you hit all the right notes.

2. Development Of Performance Skills

Nervous about performing? A vocal coach can be your secret weapon.

Imagine standing on stage, everyone watching. That’s when things get exciting.

A vocal coach can help you be a star, not just with your singing but also your confidence. 

They’ll teach you how to feel comfortable on stage and express emotions in the songs you sing. 

With a vocal coach, you’ll amaze the audience and leave them wanting more.

3. Help With Repertoire Selection

It’s important to pick songs that showcase your voice. It should not be just any song; it should be one you love to sing. 

Your vocal coach can help you find good songs with your voice and singing style. 

They can find something that works whether you like pop, rock, jazz, or classical. Don’t be afraid to try new things.

Your coach can help you explore different songs and expand your vocal range.

What Makes A Vocal Coach Truly Expert?

What makes a vocal coach truly amazing? This is something everyone asks themself when looking for a vocal coach. 

Annabel Williams says about her work as a vocal coach” “I learn every day. I’ve been lucky enough to provide backing vocals to some of the biggest stars in the world, sing on adverts, jingles, and voiceovers, and coach all singing abilities from successful recording artists to people for whom singing will only ever remain a hobby.”

Here is what to look for.

1. Education And Training

A top-notch vocal coach isn’t just someone who can carry a tune; they have the knowledge to back it up. 

Many have studied music or singing in school, meaning they’ve learned much about singing.

But that’s not all. They’ve also had special training on how to teach singing well. They keep improving by taking more classes because everyone can learn more.

2. Vocal Coach Certifications

Certifications for vocal coaching can vary. They generally recognize knowledge, skills, and experience in coaching singers. 

A vocal coach doesn’t need a specific license to be a vocal coach. But there are optional certificates that can show you’re good at it. 

United Kingdom

– ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)

– BAST (Be A Singing Teacher)

United States

– MTNA (Music Teachers National Association) Certification

– NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) Certification

– CMTA (Certified Master Teacher of the Alexander Technique)

– Vocal Pedagogy Certificate (ASU)

3. Experience In The Industry

A great vocal coach is more than just someone who gives good advice. They’ve been there, done that. They probably sang on stage for years, wowing crowds. 

But that’s not all – they’ve also taught many singers, from beginners to experienced ones. They can adjust their teaching to fit whoever they’re working with. 

So whether you love pop, rock, jazz, or something else, they can help you improve your voice.

4. Communication And Interpersonal Skills

People skills are key. Singing is personal; a good vocal coach isn’t just a boss. They’re your cheerleader, there to help you every step. 

They can explain even the hardest singing stuff in a way that’s easy to understand. They also care about your feelings and will support you when things get tough. 

Most importantly, they’ll make you feel safe so you can trust them with your voice.

Famous Vocal Coaches

Here are famous vocal coaches, along with a brief overview of their expertise and views:

1. Celebrity Coaches

– Annabel Williams: Teaches famous singers and has been on Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor.

– Roger Love: Helped singers like John Mayer sing with feeling.

– Dave Stroud: Worked with Justin Bieber and teaches singers to find their style.

– Lisa Popeil: Keeps singers healthy so they can sing hard songs.

2. YouTube Teachers

– Tara Simon: Makes singing lessons on YouTube.

– Eric Arseneaux: Teaches safe singing methods for free on YouTube.

3. Specialists

– Jo Estill: Helps singers understand their voice parts for different sounds.

– Richard Miller: Uses science to teach how voices work.

– Mark Baxter: Makes rock singers strong and healthy.

– Seth Riggs: Teaches effortless singing.

– Brett Manning: Helps singers hit high notes and sing smoothly.

– Elizabeth Sabine: Trains singers for classical music (opera).

– Jeanie LoVetri: Teaches singing for many different types of music (pop, rock, musicals).

8 Types Of Vocal Coaching

There are many types of vocal coaching, depending on what you want to sing and how you want to improve. 

Here’s a breakdown:

– Classical Vocal Coaching: Learn to sing opera, art songs, and other fancy styles. Focuses on proper breathing and technique.

– Contemporary Vocal Coaching: Want to sing pop, rock, or other current music? This is for you. Develops a strong voice for different styles.

– Performance Coaching: Want to be a star? This helps with your confidence and moves on stage.

– Audition Preparation: Get ready to impress! Learn how to pick songs and perform your best under pressure.

– Recording Studio Coaching: Want to sound amazing on a recording? Learn how to sing in a studio and make the most of your voice.

– Vocal Health and Rehabilitation: Keep your voice healthy. Learn how to avoid problems and take care of your instrument.

– Language Coaching: Sound natural. Learn how to pronounce words correctly in different languages.

– Specialized Techniques: Want to learn to belt, sing falsetto, or use vibrato? Some coaches specialize in these specific skills.

What Is The Vocal Coach Job Description?

A vocal coach helps singers improve even further. They give them tips, teach them exercises, and support them throughout the process.

A vocal coach’s job description includes:

– Conducting one-on-one training sessions with clients to improve vocal technique and performance.

– Teaching various vocal training techniques and exercises tailored to the client’s needs.

– Assisting singers in refining their diction, pronunciation, and interpretation of lyrics.

– Guiding style, expression, and musical interpretation.

– Coaching professionals and clients effectively, both verbally and in writing.

– Accompanying singers on the piano to provide musical support during practice sessions.

Vocal Coach Salary

According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly pay for a Vocal Coach in the United States is $22.58.

Vocal coach pay can vary greatly. Most coaches earn between $14 and $29 per hour, but some make as much as $57 or as little as $8. 

This difference depends on your experience, location, and skills. The big range shows there might be ways to get paid more as you get better and gain experience.

According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for a Vocal Coach is 

– Typical salary: $63,715 per year.

– Half make more, half make less: $85,002 per year (median salary).

– Bonus on top: $21,287 per year (on average). This could include cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing.

Most vocal coaches make around $64,000 annually, but some make more and others less. They might also receive bonuses in addition to their salary.

Vocal Coach vs Vocal Teacher

People sometimes use the terms “vocal coach” and “voice teacher” to mean the same thing, but there can be a small difference. 

Let’s see what each one does.

1. Vocal Coach

A vocal coach is like a trainer for singers. They help you get ready for performances by:

– Making your singing sound better.

– Picking songs that fit your voice and age.

– Teaching you the songs.

– Helping you pronounce the words clearly (diction).

– Helping you sing the phrases smoothly.

A good singing coach won’t tell you how to sing differently if they hear a problem. Instead, they’ll point it out and suggest you talk to your regular singing teacher about it.

2. Vocal Teacher

A vocal teacher helps people learn how to sing better. They teach you how to use your voice healthily and make it sound good. 

They can also help you sing different styles of music.

Voice teachers can answer questions like:

– How do you use different parts of your voice (chest voice, head voice)?

– How do you stop your voice from sounding stuffy (nasal)?

– How to sing louder.

– How do you hit higher and lower notes?

– How to sing smoothly.

– How to switch between different parts of your voice without sounding bumpy.

They also help you choose songs that fit your voice and teach you to sing them well.

7 Styles And Genres In Vocal Coaching

Not everyone needs the same kind of vocal coaching. There are many different styles and genres in vocal coaching.

Each singing style has its special techniques that can be tricky to learn. 

Here are some of the most common genres of vocal coaching:

– Classical Opera: Learn to sing opera, fancy songs, and more. Focus on breathing, voice control, clear words, and music understanding.

– Pop Music: Get a modern singing voice for today’s music. Learn mic use, hitting high notes, singing with feeling, and finding your voice.

– Musical Theater: Master singing in musicals! Learn to project your voice and act while singing. Bring characters to life and sing different styles within musicals.

– Jazz & Blues: Sing like a jazz singer! Learn to improvise (make up your parts), sing in a jazzy way, and understand jazz music.

– Rock & Pop-Rock: Sing rock and pop-rock like a pro! Develop power, stamina, and that special rock voice. Learn techniques like belting and distortion and how to care for your voice for all that singing.

– Folk & Country: Sing stories! Learn to sing clearly, tell stories with your voice, and connect with the audience.

– World Music: Explore different cultures through singing. Learn unique techniques specific to styles like African, Latin, or Indian music. 

How To Become A Vocal Coach?

What certifications do you need to become a vocal coach?

You don’t necessarily need any. 

Vocal coaching is an unregulated profession. And so is the certification industry. 

Experience and results matter more than certifications to be a successful vocal instructor.

After all, clients ultimately care about how you can help them achieve their goals.

Still, it’s better to follow these steps when becoming a vocal coach:

1. Develop Your Skill Set

– Take singing lessons to build a strong foundation in singing techniques.

– Join choirs or groups to get performance experience.

– Practice regularly to improve your singing skills.

2. Learn How To Teach

– Get a music degree (optional, but helpful).

– Take courses on vocal teaching (vocal pedagogy).

3. Gain Teaching Experience

– Offer private singing lessons.

– Volunteer to coach choirs or singing groups.

– Assist an experienced vocal coach.

4. Know Lots Of Songs

– Learn a wide variety of songs from different styles.

– Be open to new music to fit your students’ tastes.

5. Communication Is Key

– Explain things clearly and simply.

– Be patient, supportive, and encouraging with your students.

– Build trust and a positive learning environment.

6. Never Stop Learning

– Attend workshops and conferences for vocal coaches.

– Get feedback from others to improve your teaching.

– Stay up-to-date on new teaching methods and music trends.

7. Get Certified (Optional)

– Consider getting certified by organizations like NATS or MTNA to build credibility.

8. Find Students

– Create a website and social media profiles to showcase yourself.

– Network with music schools, centers, and performing arts groups.

– Offer introductory sessions or workshops to attract students.

How To Find A Vocal Coach?

Finding a vocal coach is important. You want someone with experience who will help you sing well and protect your voice.

Here’s how to find a vocal coach:

– Ask other singers or speakers for recommendations.

– Search online for local teachers.

– Think about what you want to achieve with lessons (singing a specific song, improving technique, etc.).

Knowing your goals will help the coach guide you or recommend someone who’s a better fit.

Conclusion

A vocal coach can help you sing better and be more confident. They can also help you with public speaking and shyness.

This guide is for anyone who wants to sing better, even if you don’t want to be a star.

A vocal coach is your friend who helps you find your voice and sing your best. With their help, you can be a great singer!

The most important thing is to find a nice and experienced vocal coach who can teach you well.

Resources For Further Study

– “Coaching And Conducting Singers” by O’Neal, Scott, Music Journal.

– “Functions and Roles of Musical Vocal Coach” by Lim Ji-Hyun, Kyung-won Min.