Why Do Some Singers Make Great Teachers and Others Don't?

Teaching, particularly in the realm of singing, is not just about possessing a great voice. It is a multifaceted skill that encompasses effective communication, active listening, clear explanations, and patience. While a singer might be exceptionally talented, their ability to convey knowledge and inspire growth is contingent upon these additional qualities.

Understanding Vocal Mechanism and Correction

Some singers are naturally gifted, either from birth or through minimal experiences, with a clear understanding of their vocal mechanisms. However, others may lack this insight, either because they are among the rare natural singers or because they have never faced vocal challenges that require analysis and correction.

As a singing teacher with experience in performance and high-end opera, I can attest to the importance of knowing the technical aspects of voice production. Teachers must be able to diagnose and correct vocal faults. For instance, teachers should know the following: Is one shoulder higher than the other? Do they use body tension to reach high notes instead of proper vocal technique? Do they understand the necessity of a good breathing technique and the use of vocal muscles for optimal sound production? Do they know exercises to correct pitch issues and how to work with voice instead of against it? Do they recognize the importance of vowel shaping and how certain consonants can be utilized to support vocal placement? Are they aware that vocal cords are delicate and must not be strained?

The journey to mastering these skills is often fraught with frustration, and the effective teacher prides themselves on being a knowledgeable resource. A fair number of voice teachers start as students, paying for lessons at lower rates and learning alongside their students. This firsthand experience breeds empathy and a unique ability to connect with learners.

Teaching Skills and Vocal Technique

One might think that knowing how to perform a skill would make a person an effective coach, but this is not always the case in singing. Unlike instruments like the piano, where teachers can physically demonstrate technique, singing instruction is primarily auditory. Teachers must rely on vocal hearing and guidance, which can be more challenging to pinpoint and address.

Teaching is a unique ability that extends across all human endeavors. Some people are naturally adept at imparting knowledge, while others struggle despite extensive education. This is somewhat similar to the nature of being a great singer. Successful teachers in both fields exhibit a blend of natural talent and acquired skills, but these do not always correlate directly.

Personal Qualities of a Great Vocal Teacher

Great singing teachers need a personal touch that goes beyond mere technical knowledge. A personable and unpretentious demeanor, along with a keen analytical sense, is crucial. Teachers must also balance their ego and past achievements to avoid dominating the session and instead focus on the student's development.

Essentially, a great singing teacher is like a manager who, despite a long and successful career, struggles to adapt to new roles and responsibilities. They are used to being applauded for their achievements and find it difficult to navigate the more intricate, technical aspects of their craft. Effective teachers learn to lead with experience, guiding others without overshadowing them with their own talent.

Ultimately, the key to becoming a great singing teacher lies in the ability to balance personal experience, technical knowledge, and a deep understanding of the student's needs. With these components, a talented singer can become an exceptional instructor, inspiring students to reach their full potential.