Have you always hoped that one day you'll be standing on a big stage belting out your favourite tune to a large audience? Realise your dream by taking professional singing lessons irrespective of whether you just sing in the shower or have some singing experience.

What are the benefits of singing lessons?

Whereas some people are born with a natural aptitude towards singing, others need an extra helping hand to improve and sharpen their skills even further. However, learning how to sing properly isn't only about sounding good but also about singing properly. And did you know that there are several health benefits to it? From improving your posture to helping you sleep better and strengthening your immune system, singing also has several psychological benefits. For instance, it can act as a natural anti-depressant since it's known to release endorphins, it can lower stress levels, while it can boost your confidence and focus.

How to select a suitable singing teacher

A quick glance at Yellow's list of schools and teachers whereby you can attend singing lessons will reveal a number of them. But how can you tell whether a particular vocal coach would be ideal for you? After all, opt for the wrong teacher and you might end up wasting time and money, losing your confidence and worse, damaging your vocal cords. So what are the main factors you should consider when selecting a teacher? The primary thing you must keep in mind is the genre or singing style you are most inclined towards. Are you more into pop, opera, musical theatre or jazz? Depending on the singing style you have or would like to acquire, the singing teacher should have the necessary experience to help you achieve your goals.

Having said that, do bear in mind that if you're new to singing, there is somewhat of an overlap between different genres when it comes to the basics of vocal technique, so don't expect to start singing in a specific style as soon as you begin your classes. In addition, the vocal coach should be able to support and motivate you, while ideally, you should opt for someone who has plenty of experience and a track record.

What will the singing teacher teach you?

Whether you're a seasonal singer who is simply looking to improve your singing or you're new to the whole concept and would like to acquire this skill, expect to learn a number of things. During your lesson, the coach will urge you to conduct a variety of breathing and vocal exercises, you'll be taught how to apply vocal techniques, as well as your own voice, while you'll learn everything there is to know about vocal colours and textures. At the same time, you'll have the opportunity to work on songs and solo repertoires using expression and drama to further improve your performance. If you're a singing novice you might be expected to cover a number of songs ranging from pop to musicals and everything in between in order to better understand and practice the proper way you should be performing. Once you're accustomed to doing so, you may then discuss with your teacher your interest in a particular genre.

Who offers singing lessons in Malta and what is the method of instruction?

Locally vocal coaches either offer lessons from their own premises working one on one with their students or they may be employed by a larger performing art school. Some tend to focus on a particular genre such as for instance opera singing or they may centre on a series of singing types.

Performing art schools, also offer one on one sessions that consist of an hourly class every week. At the same time, some also provide group vocal sessions whereby students are typically divided into small groups depending on their vocal range. Lessons during these sessions focus on the same teaching outcomes as is the case with individual lessons, however, you'll learn to sing in unison with others. Furthermore, these schools may also provide individual and group classes in guitar, piano, drums and other instruments, as well as theory classes for children and adults.

Enrolment to these schools typically takes place at the beginning of each scholastic year, whilst you'll be expected to pay the respective fees every term, usually every 3 months. In contrast, when it comes to individual singing teachers these may accept you at any point during the scholastic year provided that they can slot you in their busy schedule. The majority charge on a per lesson basis. On occasions, you may be placed on a waiting list if you've decided to commence classes whilst lessons have already begun.

Coaches will typically instruct their students on a number of methods and may use a variety of techniques to teach singing. Apart from private singing lessons and group sessions mentioned earlier on, some teachers may also offer workshops, recording studio coaching during which you'll be taught a set of different techniques needed when recording songs and accompaniment singing lessons where you'll be accompanied by a pianist or another type of musician.