What do you think of when you see the words "classical singing?" Perhaps opera comes to mind? Here, vocal instructor Molly R. explains what being classically trained really means and how it can be applied to any genre of singing... What does the phrase “classically trained” mean - and why does it matter to you as a singer? Suppose you’re a rock or pop singer looking for a voice teacher -- while some teachers may stress that they're all about rocking or teaching a certain voca

Gearing up for graduation? Congratulations! Whether you're putting on a performance or simply need to load up your party playlist, here are some of the top graduation songs, rounded up by Hayward, CA voice teacher Molly R... Editor's Note: Updated post for 2016 - even MORE recommendations for graduation songs to sing! It’s May, and before you know it we’re getting into another very busy time of year! One of the things we have to look forward to is graduations galore (how did it get to be

How do you get the vocal range of famous singers like Mariah Carey and Ariana Grande? Find out in this guest post by online voice teacher Emmanuel N... We all know those few amazing singers with expansive vocal ranges – Mariah Carey for her five octaves, famous for her low, high, and whistle notes; Ariana Grande famous for her full voice and head voice notes; Toni Braxton and Brandy for those low sultry notes. Everyone would love to be able to sing their songs and hit every note, but sadly

Feeling a cold coming on, or dealing with allergies? Below, Brooklyn, NY teacher Liz T. shares a few singing warm-up exercises to add to your practice session!   No one likes to sing when they’re sick, but -- as we all know -- sometimes “the show must go on!” It is recommended that you rest, take care of your voice, or even go on vocal rest if you have lost your voice completely. However, if you are dealing with seasonal allergies or a common cold, I have good news! It is still heal

Is there such a thing as too much vibrato? Find out about the technique in this guest post by Brooklyn, NY singing teacher Liz T...   Have you ever listened to a professional opera or Broadway singer and noticed how strong their vibrato was? Or noticed how a lot of contemporary pop singers on the radio today do not use a lot of vibrato? In this article, I will explain how to find and control your vibrato to use appropriately when performing. What is Vibrato? To begin with, a simple def

As a singer, your instrument--your voice--requires special care and precautions to avoid injuries. But what if the damage is already done? What symptoms should you watch out for, and when is it time to look into voice therapy? Learn more in this guest post by Corona, CA teacher Milton J...   As singers, we understand that the voice is an instrument all of its own. Furthermore, we should also understand that our voice is a muscle that requires its own workout, and is subject to inju

How can you ensure you're making the most of your time in your singing lessons? Record yourself singing, so you can listen back on it later! Consider this advice from Hayward, CA teacher Molly R...   Back when I first started voice lessons, my teacher always made sure before we got started that I brought my tape (this was the early '90s!) so that I could record the lesson. As both a student and a teacher, I certainly know the value in recording your voice lessons. When you record your

Studies have shown that children who study music perform better in other subjects than their peers. One of the reasons for this boost is the creative thinking skills that music teaches. Even if you don't have formal music training, there are many things you can do to build a love for music in your child. It's never too early to start - even newborns enjoy listening to soothing lullabies. Below, check out of the different types of songs to sing that can encourage creativity in your toddler, presc

Most beginner vocalists come across the same types of issues - such as struggling to learn how to sing higher and stay on pitch during practice and performances. Read on as Grand Rapids, MI teacher Kelsey P. explains why, plus three simple fixes! If you've ever found yourself struggling to sing in tune, you're not alone. Many singers experience pitch problems at some point in their careers. Luckily, there are several techniques that can help you sing higher, clearer, and on pitch.  I

Wondering how to become a singer? Take a look at the five essential qualities you'll need in this guest post by Ann Arbor, MI singing teacher Elaina R...   Plenty of people want to be singers. At the same time, though, most people have no idea how to become a singer and really improve. Why? Singing is complicated! Singing is a performing art. A good singer is both a good musician (sounds good and sings the right notes) and a good performer (is engaging and interesting to watch). T