Finding A Good Voice Teacher- A Checklist

The following is a guideline that may help you define those qualities and competencies you would look for in a voice teacher. Congratulations on your decision to study voice. I wish you much success!

These are not hard and fast rules, of course. Depending on what your individual needs are you may find many of these suggestions helpful.

  • The teacher has an excellent ear, and carefully listens to, and gives
    you feedback about your voice.

  • Has an understanding of vocal anatomy, including the respiratory muscles,
    the larynx and throat structures, and how they affect singing.

  • Allows you to tape record lessons or exercises in the lesson for take-home practice. Provides you with written exercises when needed.

  • Is professional in conduct yet personable. You should feel comfortable with
    this person. You should feel free to ask questions.

  • While being emotionally supportive, he or she should be able to challenge
    you to grow as a singer at the same time.

  • The teacher should be able to explain to you in depth why you are doing
    each exercise that he or she gives you.

  • If available go to a recital where this teacher's students are performing. If
    they mostly sound great then this is probably a very good indication of a
    competent voice teacher.

  • Avoid teachers who only take on students who are already professional vocalists. A good teacher can train any voice and would enjoy the
    challenge of doing so.

  • The teacher shows genuine interest in you as a singer and does not spend much time talking about him or herself.

  • The teacher either can accompany you on the piano/keyboard or has an accompanist or Karaoke set-up.

  • The teacher understands vocal health issues including the need to drink
    water and monitor the speaking voice

  • Addresses the need to relax those tensions/muscles that can block good
    vocal production and vocal freedom.

  • Is emotionally stable and does not overstep personal boundaries with you, and/or does not intimidate or talk down to you.


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