The Pros and Cons of Multicoach Online Singing Lessons

In today's digital age, accessing singing instructors from anywhere in the world through online platforms has become increasingly popular. Many aspiring singers are turning to YouTube tutorials, online coaches, and virtual classes to improve their skills, and some even experiment with multiple coaches to find the perfect fit. However, striking the right balance between trying out different instructors and sticking with one can be crucial for achieving significant progress.

Understanding the Role of a Coach vs. a Teacher

It is essential to understand that while online coaches can provide valuable insights and guidance, finding a personal voice teacher who has a deep understanding of your unique vocal capabilities is key. A teacher acts as your anchor, providing consistent guidance and support throughout your journey. Ideally, you should seek a teacher who is of the same gender and voice type as you, as this can make the learning process more intuitive and easier to understand.

My own experience, after visiting and evaluating multiple music academies in London, led me to choose RAM (Royal Academy of Music) and GSM (Guildhall School of Music and Drama). These institutions became my foundation for a 25-year professional opera career and continue to inspire my lecturing role at RAM. The importance of personal interaction in one-on-one sessions cannot be overstated; a good teacher can tailor their instruction to your needs in a way that online platforms often struggle to achieve.

The Wisdom of Commitment

It is crucial to remember that once you have found a teacher, it is advisable to commit to them for an extended period, which is ideally at least 4-6 years. A teacher needs time to understand your specific vocal characteristics and how they relate to your singing style. In-person, one-on-one lessons allow for the detailed analysis and immediate feedback that online lessons may lack.

During this time, you should aim to have a lesson with your chosen teacher at least once a week. This regularity helps in advancing your singing skills more efficiently. Switching coaches frequently can disrupt the learning process and hinder your progress.

Practical Tips for Leveraging Multiple Coaches

While I respect the value of consistent, long-term instruction, there is wisdom in exploring new instructors to ensure you find the right fit. If your current learning situation involves low quarantine restrictions or limited financial constraints, you might consider trying out one or two different online coaches to supplement your primary training.

Here are some practical steps you can follow:

Assessment: Evaluate your current skills and goals to understand what aspect of your voice you most need improvement in.

Budget: Determine how much you can afford to invest in additional coaching. Even if it costs more initially, the knowledge you gain could be invaluable.

Trust: Ultimately, the effectiveness of a coach depends on the trust you build with them. Choose a coach who has a proven track record and whose teaching philosophy aligns with your goals.

Equipment: Ensure you have the necessary equipment, such as a piano, keyboard, or guitar, to supplement your vocal practice.

Conclusion

Exploring different online coaches can be a fruitful way to find the right fit for your vocal development. However, it's essential to balance this with the long-term commitment required to truly master vocal techniques. Whether you decide to commit to one teacher or explore a few, the key is to find an approach that works for you and aligns with your long-term goals.

Keywords: online singing lessons, singing coach, vocal training