Qualities of a Good Classical Singing Teacher

Classical singing is a style of singing that was perfected over decades and is now held to be the standard. Most students want to start off and train their voice with some classical singing before moving on to whatever they are really interested in. Most voice teachers too endorse this approach since it is felt that classical singing lessons help in training the voice. But for this, you must have a good teacher.

Understands the genre

A good teacher will understand the genre you want to learn. It is better to choose one who has had training in classical singing themselves. It is the only way they will be able to teach you the techniques that you want to learn. Ensure that he or she has either certification or experience in classical singing, or both. Don’t go to the first teacher who shows up or join classes with a teacher because it is cheap. Once your voice is trained the wrong way, it is difficult to correct it.

Demonstrate rather than tell

When you are in the middle of learning, your teacher will often try to correct your singing. They must be able to do it through demonstration and tangible exercises. Simply asking you to sing higher or use your stomach is not going to help you, especially if you are a beginner. As a newbie, you have no way of knowing how to follow these instructions. Choose a teacher who has a more precise manner of showing how to achieve the desired results.

Allows you to hear them out

Before signing up for classical singing classes, it’s not a bad idea to ask your teacher for a demonstration. Some teachers might get offended at the thought of being judged for their performance, and it might be better to avoid these teachers. You could also exercise some diplomacy and check out the prospective teacher during public concerts, if they give any. But it is your right to hear them out before paying them.

Shows respect

A decent teacher will respect their students, and put in effort in building up relationships. If your teacher spends time talking on the phone during class hours or their children keep wandering in and out of the classroom, creating a ruckus, this means that the teacher is not professional enough. If your child is the one taking classes, then some teachers might even instill fear by being too stern with children. All this is a blatant lack of respect for the students and such teachers are better avoided.

Makes it enjoyable

Singing must be fun even if a lot of effort and time goes into it. Find a teacher who really understands this. If your classes are becoming more of a chore and are leaving you dispirited, your teacher is not doing enough to make it fun. While discipline is required to master classical singing techniques, it is not sufficient. Unless you are also deriving enjoyment from your classes and your learning, you will never be able to immerse yourself fully in your music. It is imperative that your teacher makes the lessons fun.

A good teacher is a blessing and must be a good fit for you. If you feel comfortable with a teacher, then go ahead and sign up. Don’t get intimidated by their behavior or knowledge, and make your choice of classical singing teachers with a clear head.