What is Vocal Training and Vocal Coaching?
The terms Vocal Coach, Voice Coach, Singing Teacher, Technique Instructor and Vocal Trainer often cause confusion. My skills in these above areas do overlap a little, as I am a singer as well as a voice therapist/speech pathologist. I have a background in music so there is a piano and lots of guitars in my clinic.
For me and my role; vocal coaching encompasses helping my clients achieve the best possible voice for speaking and singing. It may include helping clients with the following:
- Improving vocal variety – to achieve a more flexible and interesting voice
- Increasing a client’s knowledge of how their “instrument” works
- Increasing a client’s ability to reach notes safely
- Developing a vocal hygiene routine such as warming up and warming down
- Improving vocal projection/power
- Finding a more assertive voice
- Improving articulation
- Increasing awareness of both verbal and non-verbal communication
- Singing safely across a variety of styles
- Identifying environmental and psychological factors that can impact voice
If you are a singer, podcaster, actor, presenter, teacher, personal trainer, lawyer, hairdresser, salesperson, radio announcer or auctioneer – vocal training is like an insurance policy for your career. I would call it professional development and growth.
Most people who are in the above professions do not know a thing about the most important tool of their trade – their voice! For example, if you were a professional guitarist, you would hopefully know how to restring your instrument, keep it clean and dry to optimise sound. You would also know how to use it to get the style and sound you want. Why should your vocal instrument be any different?
Everyone is different and may wish to work on some or all of the above areas that are mentioned. My approach is always to come up with a personalised program that meets your needs.