A Journey Through Singing Lessons: From Voice Teachers to Million Dollar Voice
Singing has been a passion of mine from a young age, but my journey through voice lessons has been as varied as it has been transformative. I have had the opportunity to learn under numerous teachers, coaches, and vocal workshops, each providing me with unique insights and invaluable experience. In this article, I will share my personal journey and the impact of voice lessons on my life and career as a singer and actor.
Early Influences: My Grandmother and Classical Training
I was fortunate to have my grandmother, a professional singing teacher, guide me in the early stages of my vocal journey. She imparted her knowledge and techniques to me until I was 13, when my voice began to break. I recall the years of rest that followed, during which I did not sing again. Despite the pause, I never completely lost the desire to sing; it was more a matter of timing and circumstances.
In high school, I furthered my classical training under the guidance of a classical teacher. I then studied with Charlotte Holloman, an acclaimed classical teacher/professor from the Washington Black Opera. Charlotte advised me to seek a style coach to transition from classical singing to a safer pop/rock genre. Following this advice, I met Norma Garbo, a professor at the Manhattan School of Music in New York City. Under her tutelage, I learned a rare and unique technique that I later applied in the recording industry. Additionally, I had the privilege of working with excellent choir directors who gave me individualized attention and coaching, ensuring that my passion for singing continued to grow.
Turning Points and Mentorship
One significant turning point in my singing journey was when I was 16 years old and I took my first adult voice lessons. The instructor was an experienced African American Jazz singer with over three decades of professional experience. During our brief session, she offered me invaluable advice: 'Always sing with your own voice.' This piece of advice stuck with me and has guided my singing ever since.
After attending the Boston Conservatory at age 21, I continued to invest in my vocal skills. Over the years, I have taken numerous vocal coaching sessions and spent thousands of dollars on voice lessons. This commitment has been a significant factor in my progression as a professional singing actor.
The Impact of Vocal Coaches
The influence of vocal coaches has been profound in shaping my singing journey. Each teacher has contributed their unique knowledge and techniques to my development. From classical training to jazz, and from pop to rock, the variety of techniques and approaches has enabled me to explore the full spectrum of vocal possibilities.
One standout experience was the advice from a blues singer in the Boston subway. When I sang a blues standard, he exclaimed, 'You got that Million Dollar Voice!' While I may never achieve that elusive 'million dollars,' his comment served as a significant boost to my confidence and provided me with a measure of recognition for my vocal abilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my journey through singing lessons has been a journey of discovery and growth. Each teacher, coach, and mentor has played a crucial role in shaping my voice and teaching me the techniques necessary to succeed in the singing world. While voice lessons may come with a price tag, the benefits have been immeasurable. Whether through classical, jazz, or rock training, the focus on developing one's unique voice has been at the core of my journey.