How to Choose the Right Voice Teacher: What to Look For (and Red Flags to Avoid)
So you've decided to take voice lessons. Congratulations! Whether you're finally pursuing that lifelong dream or just want to sing better in the car, you're about to embark on an amazing journey.
But here's the thing: not all voice teachers are created equal. And choosing the wrong one can be frustrating at best, and harmful to your voice at worst.
After 36+ years of teaching (and fixing issues caused by well-meaning but under-qualified instructors), I've seen it all. Let me help you find a teacher who'll actually help you grow.
What Makes a Great Voice Teacher?
1. Formal Training and Experience
What to look for:
- Degree in vocal performance, music education, or related field
- Years of teaching experience (not just performing experience)
- Ongoing professional development
Why it matters: Singing well and teaching singing are two completely different skills. I've met incredible performers who couldn't explain what they do, and I've met teachers with modest performing careers who are absolute wizards at helping others improve.
The sweet spot? Someone who has both performance experience AND formal training in pedagogy (the art of teaching).
Questions to ask:
- "What's your educational background?"
- "How long have you been teaching?"
- "Do you continue your own vocal education?"
2. They Teach Technique, Not Just Songs
Red flag alert: If a teacher just has you sing songs without explaining HOW to sing them, run.
What good teaching looks like:
- Explaining breath support and demonstrating exercises
- Breaking down vocal concepts into understandable pieces
- Giving you tools to practice independently
- Addressing your specific technical challenges
I tell my students: "I'm not here to just accompany you while you sing. I'm here to teach you how your voice works so you can sing anything you want, long after our lessons end."
3. They Prioritize Vocal Health
Major red flags:
- Lessons that leave you hoarse or with a sore throat
- Teachers who push you to sing when you're sick
- Encouraging you to "push through" pain or discomfort
- Promising dramatic range expansion in unrealistic timeframes
What healthy teaching looks like:
- Emphasizing proper warm-ups
- Teaching you to recognize vocal fatigue
- Adjusting lessons when you're not feeling 100%
- Building your voice gradually and sustainably
Your voice is the only instrument you can't replace. A good teacher treats it with respect.
4. They Meet You Where You Are
Here's something I love about teaching adults: you all come with such diverse backgrounds and goals. Some of you sang in college and want to get back into it. Others have never had a lesson in your life.
A great teacher will:
- Ask about your goals and actually listen
- Adapt their teaching style to your learning style
- Celebrate your progress without comparing you to others
- Make lessons challenging but not overwhelming
Red flags:
- One-size-fits-all approach
- Making you feel bad about your current level
- Dismissing your musical preferences
- Rigid teaching methods with no flexibility
5. Clear Communication About Logistics
Professional teachers will have:
- Clear pricing and payment policies
- Consistent scheduling
- A cancellation policy (and they stick to it)
- Professional communication
Red flags:
- Constantly canceling or rescheduling
- Unclear or changing prices
- No formal policies
- Unprofessional behavior
The Intangibles That Matter
Chemistry and Comfort
Voice lessons are personal. You're literally making sounds that feel vulnerable, especially at first. You need to feel comfortable with your teacher.
Good signs:
- You feel encouraged, not judged
- You can ask "dumb questions" without embarrassment
- They have a sense of humor about the learning process
- You actually look forward to lessons
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
They're Excited About Teaching Adults
Some teachers primarily work with kids and teens. That's fine! But if you're an adult learner, you want someone who genuinely enjoys teaching your age group.
Why it matters: Adult learners have different needs, schedules, and learning styles. We also bring life experience and self-awareness that younger students don't have yet.
I've had students start lessons in their 60s and 70s who've made incredible progress. Age is not a barrier—but you need a teacher who believes that.
Questions to Ask in a Trial Lesson
Most teachers offer a trial or consultation lesson. Here's what to ask:
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"What's your teaching philosophy?" Listen for: emphasis on technique, vocal health, and student-centered learning
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"What can I expect in a typical lesson?" Listen for: structured warm-ups, technical work, and repertoire
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"How do you handle students with [your specific concern]?" Examples: limited range, pitch issues, performance anxiety
-
"What should I practice between lessons?" Listen for: specific, actionable guidance
-
"How do you measure progress?" Listen for: concrete milestones, not vague promises
What About Online vs. In-Person?
In-person pros:
- Teacher can hear your true sound quality
- Easier to demonstrate physical concepts
- More personal connection
Online pros:
- Convenience and flexibility
- Access to teachers outside your area
- Often more affordable
My take: Both can work beautifully with the right teacher. I've taught successfully both ways. The key is that the teacher knows how to teach in their chosen format.
The Bottom Line
The right voice teacher will:
- Have solid credentials and experience
- Teach you HOW to sing, not just WHAT to sing
- Prioritize your vocal health above all else
- Adapt to your goals and learning style
- Make you feel encouraged and capable
The wrong voice teacher will:
- Lack formal training or experience
- Focus only on songs without technique
- Push you in ways that cause strain or pain
- Use a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach
- Make you feel discouraged or inadequate
Your Voice Deserves the Best
You're investing time, money, and vulnerability into voice lessons. You deserve a teacher who's invested in your success.
Don't settle for someone who's "good enough" or "convenient." Your voice—and your musical journey—deserves better than that.
Ready to experience what great vocal instruction feels like? Schedule a trial lesson and let's discover what your voice can do.
Have questions about finding the right teacher? Contact me—I'm always happy to help, even if we don't end up working together.
Recommended Resources
Looking to enhance your vocal practice? Check out my recommended resources for recording equipment, learning materials, and vocal health products I personally use and recommend to students.
