The Gap Between TV Singing Judges and Professional Vocal Coaches

Would the observations of full-time vocal coaches about contestants' performances on TV singing competitions generally mimic those of the show judges? The answer is no, primarily due to fundamental differences in the focus and expertise of these two groups. TV singing competitions, like The X Factor, prioritize marketability and star power over pure singing ability. Professional vocal coaches, on the other hand, delve into intricate details that often escape the casual viewer and even the judges themselves.

Understanding the Differences

Professionally trained vocal coaches possess an extensive knowledge base that allows them to dissect vocal performances with precision. They can identify how a singer's voice is resonating, the connection being used, the timbre chosen, the breath support utilized, and how posture affects vocal performance. These coaches are equipped to spot subtle nuances in delivery, such as the onset of a word, falsetto usage, and specific vowel sounds, all of which have a significant impact on the quality of the performance.

TV singing competitions, however, are more focused on creating entertainment and marketable talent. Judges on these shows, often consisting of pop stars or music celebrities, lack the in-depth technical expertise required to analyze vocal performances thoroughly. While some are undoubtedly skilled, many prioritize style and charisma over technical accuracy. The popularity of contestants is often driven by their marketability rather than their vocal abilities, as seen with the success of One Direction. Even the better judges may not be able to pinpoint specific vocal skills in the same way an experienced coach would.

The Role of Marketability in TV Competitions

The success of contestants in TV singing competitions is often determined by their marketability and star power rather than their inherent singing ability. Marketers and producers often overlook vocal quality in favor of featuring contestants who have a unique sound or a strong appeal to the general audience. For instance, Shawn Mendes and Adam Levine, despite their techniques, are frequently praised by judges for their marketable approach, often considered as intentional stylistic quirks rather than technical flaws.

Take the song 'Thinking Out Loud' by Ed Sheeran as an example. The chorus's strain is not due to skill but is rather an unhealthy vocal performance that can lead to long-term voice damage. A professional coach would recognize this, but there is a tendency among judges to overlook such technical issues in favor of stylistic choices that appear more emotionally charged or marketable.

The Impact of Technical Oversight

Judges often fall into the trap of assuming that all strained or vocally stressful performances are intentional forms of emotive singing. Comments like "I love that emotion in your voice" or "You struggled but then you killed that high note!" reflect this misconception. Judges fail to understand that inconsistent or strained singing can be detrimental to an artist's long-term vocal health and that hitting a low note beautifully is often more impressive than struggling with a high note.

There is also a pressure to turn everything into an over-the-top performance, which can come at the cost of proper posture, breathing, and technique. This emphasis on spectacle often overshadows the importance of maintaining good vocal health and technical precision.

Identifying True Potential

While vocal coaches are capable of identifying potential in contestants, they face the challenge of providing practical and effective coaching. Coaches like Louisa Johnson require a nuanced understanding of technique and posture to enhance their vocal range and delivery. The judges on these shows often lack the specialized knowledge necessary to coach singers effectively, especially when it comes to raising technical standards.

The unparalleled insights of professional vocal coaches could bridge the gap between marketability and vocal skill, but this would require judges to possess a level of expertise that goes beyond what is typically expected in a singing competition. Educators with extensive knowledge and practical experience are more likely to provide meaningful feedback that fosters genuine improvement in vocal performance.

Conclusion

The gap between the observations of TV singing judges and professional vocal coaches is significant, primarily due to differences in their focus, expertise, and the nature of their roles. While judges prioritize marketability and performance style, vocal coaches concentrate on technical accuracy and vocal health. Addressing this gap could improve the quality of vocal performances in TV singing competitions and provide better support for emerging talent.