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Getting Started with Voice Lessons
Age to start lessons:
The earlier a child can be exposed to music, the better! Music has so many benefits
beyond music education! Music increases math, reading, spatial skills, and SAT scores. It teaches commitment, organization, self discipline, positive social skills and increases a child's self esteem!
The following is an average age recommendation for voice lessons. The perfect age to begin lessons is ultimately dependant on the individual child. Some students find success at beginning lessons at a much earlier age than normally recommended. Other students benefit from waiting until an older age to start lessons.
Voice: 10-12 years old and up for in-depth voice lessons
It is very possible to start singing lessons at a much younger age, but the lessons
would
focus more on basic musicianship skills and vocal breathing techniques
in order to
prepare a student for serious training as their body and voice matures.
Often times with younger voice students, a teacher will incorporate basic keyboard
skills to
help teach music theory and fundamentals. It is even more beneficial for students to take weekly piano lessons in addition to weekly voice lessons.
What do I need to start voice lessons?
Please consult your voice teacher for specific requirements.
Piano or keyboard
A piano or keyboard is required for voice lessons for many reasons. The teacher will use the piano or keyboard to play vocal warm up and technique exercises, sight singing training, and to accompany the student when they sing their lesson and performance pieces. The piano/keyboard will also be used to teach the voice student the basics of music theory and fundamentals. The student will also use the piano/keyboard to play the melody line of their lesson and performance pieces so they can practice.
Though a voice student only needs a very basic keyboard, a touch sensitive keyboard
with 72 keys or more would be highly beneficial.
Music stand
Lesson books and materials
Your lesson books and materials will be selected by your teacher. Your teacher will
either purchase the materials for you (please reimburse your teacher directly) or they will give you the information so you can purchase them.
Lesson log
A lesson log keeps track of your assignments, the concepts covered at each lesson, and your practice time. Your teacher may have a specific lesson log they would like you to use.
Pencils
Make sure to have plenty of erasers too!
Other helpful items:
Metronome
A metronome plays a beep or tone at the tempo requested. It is a very valuable tool for teaching and establishing rhythm.
Vocal recordings
It is very inspiring to hear what years of practice can sound like!!