Learn Singing your way with a TakeLessons expert

By Mark M. - Birmingham Singing Teacher

If you are interested in using your voice and sharing your talents for singing, then Birmingham, AL offers a multitude of venues and opportunities. You'll find plenty of opportunities to show off what you're learning from your singing lessons in Birmingham because not only are there numerous churches with choirs and music of every variety, there are also venues that encourage singing, performance and professional development.

First, remember that your voice is an instrument. Vocal performance is exercising this instrument so practicing and utilizing a vocal coach are both of great benefit. A vocal coach can help you learn how to practice and exercise properly while developing the strength of your voice. Whether you utilize a coach or teacher online or in person, both can be helpful as you discover the expression of your love for music and for singing. When it comes to the appreciation and expression of vocal music, Birmingham, AL has many outlets and opportunities. Here are just a few:

1. The Magic City Choral Society of Birmingham is a choral, arts, education and performance organization that encourages people interested in choral and ensemble performance. Their website is www.magiccitychoralsociety.org. (Birmingham was dubbed the "Magic City" during the steel mill boom of the early 1900's when the city grew from a poor small town to a major city like "magic".)

Some of the special yearly events of the MCCS include the annual Masquerade Ball, Sing Out! Open Mic nights, and the spectacular Christmas Chorale events. The MCCS also provides additional opportunities for the advanced musician through the Women’s and Men’s Choruses. Those with advanced vocal skills can audition for these specialty groups. The MCCS chorus is open to all interested persons who are 18 or over.

2. There are dozens of music venues in Birmingham that encourage local artists. The downtown area, covering over 10 square miles, including Uptown, 5 Points, Southside and Lakeview, all have venues for artists to display their talents from karaoke to professional gigs and performances. Uptown is the newest addition to the downtown scene with everything from burgers to fine dining Mexican cuisine. The rooftop bars at several of the restaurants offer a skyline view of downtown while providing unique entertainment.

Lakeview is the one stop location in the city for fun, food, entertainment and late night clubbing. Some of the most popular music events as well as options for audience participation happen in Lakeview. I will admit, there are several places in Birmingham that play host to great musical events and talent and opportunity, but the most varied collection of this opportunity, located within two city blocks, can be found in the Lakeview area.

3. The musical arts are one of the largest growing interests in Birmingham. From children's theater, performances at Railroad Park, museums, art festivals and community gatherings are all continuously gaining popularity and variety. You can see more of all of these events and the calendar of specifics at www.birmingham365.org

Get out on the town, experience the culture and food, and put those singing lessons in Birmingham to the test!