It's okay to feel nervous! | online singing lessons
It's intimidating to sing in front of someone if you've never sung before, especially when their entire attention is on you! A good teacher will observe your posture and breathing as well as your voice. Notice how we said observe rather than judge? A good singing teacher will observe objectively because they want you to succeed. Their success depends on your success.
Mistakes are an important part of learning. | online singing course
Anyone who has ever mastered something knows that mistakes are important for progress. Imagine if, as a toddler, you stumbled while learning to walk and then decided that you might as well give up because you failed the first time. However, this is not the case because most young children do not listen to negative self-talk (younger and wiser?). Some people learn quickly, while others learn slowly. Nobody cares how long you took to get where you are when you come to perform; all they are interested in is where you are now. Enjoy the ride!
You could work with your vocal coach to set a goal. | online singing lessons
Whether perfecting the vocals for your latest EP or nailing a song at karaoke, working towards a goal can help you focus your energy and measure your progress.
Lessons should be fun! | online singing course
The winning formula is determination, patience, and passion. Dedication and ambition will get you far, but don't forget to enjoy the process as well! One of the reasons singing is such a powerful exercise is that it keeps you focused on the present moment. This state is also known as 'mindfulness.'
You might want to record your sessions. | online singing lessons
You can ask your teacher to do it for you. It's worth noting that most of us dislike having our voices recorded. It's normal to cringe a little bit when you listen back. Remember that mistakes are important for growth. Keeping a record will help you to review any instructions or advice you were given, track your progress over the coming weeks, and truly hear where you were successful. You may repeat something during a lesson until you get it right. You might hit the target at times and miss it at others. Listening back later can help you differentiate between 'hit' and 'miss,' allowing you to be more 'in the flow during the session.
It's okay to not 'get it right away. | online singing course
Everyone learns to sing in different ways. Some learn by imitating certain sounds (auditory), others by feeling how it feels (kinesthetic), and still, others benefit from visualizing what the vocal cords are doing. Sometimes your teacher will give you instructions, and you'll be on a completely different wavelength. A good teacher will explain a concept in various ways until you understand it, so don't be afraid to ask questions.
Your teacher should never make you feel uneasy or self-conscious. | online singing lessons
This is very important. Teachers are people just like everyone else; they have good days and bad days, but they also need to be professional. A teacher must be open and honest with students about areas for improvement (and come up with solutions!). However, snapping at, belittling (and insulting) students is bullying (NOT 'harsh but fair' or whatever other excuses they use.) Be wary of teachers who claim to know what your future holds. While no one can guarantee you a celebrity life, they can help you become the best version of yourself.
Similarly, no one can guarantee your failure (remember the man who declined the Beatles?) So, don't accept labels that don't help you. You should walk away from your singing lessons knowing you're on the right track and be confident in the steps you need to take.
Final Words
You are the captain of your own ship. Your requirements will be specific to you, as determined by your goals and the genre of music you wish to perform. Collaboration and exploration characterize the relationship between a student and teacher.
Don't forget to check out our Online Singing Course at Mela Music School and schedule your free trial.