How can you find the best vocal coaching networks and associations?

1 Benefits of joining

Joining a vocal coaching network or association can be highly beneficial for your career and personal growth. You can gain access to resources such as newsletters, webinars, podcasts, workshops, and courses that can help you stay informed on the latest trends and research in vocal coaching. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to network with other vocal coaches and singers, both locally and globally, who can offer advice, feedback, referrals, collaboration, and support. Furthermore, being part of a reputable network or association can give you recognition and credibility in the industry, as well as discounts and perks for events, conferences, certifications, publications, and memberships of other related organizations.

2 Types of networks and associations

When it comes to vocal coaching, there are various networks and associations you can join, based on your preferences and interests. Professional associations are formal organizations that represent the interests and standards of vocal coaches and singers in a specific region, country, or internationally. They typically have a membership fee and certain criteria to join. Examples include the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), the British Voice Association (BVA), and the International Voice Teachers of Mix (IVTOM). Alternatively, online communities are informal groups that connect vocal coaches and singers through social media platforms, forums, blogs, or websites. These usually have no or low membership fees and are open to anyone who wants to join. Examples include The Voice Council, The Modern Vocalist World, and The Vocalist Studio. Lastly, specialized networks focus on a particular niche, genre, style, or method of vocal coaching or singing. These also usually have a membership fee and a set of criteria to join. Examples include the Estill Voice International (EVI), the Institute for Vocal Advancement (IVA), and the Speech Level Singing (SLS).

3 How to choose the best ones

Choosing the best vocal coaching networks and associations for you requires considering your goals, needs, budget, and preferences. Before joining, ask yourself what your objectives are, what your needs as a vocal coach or singer are, how much you can spend on membership fees and other resources, what your preferences are in terms of format, frequency, location, and size of the network or association, and how compatible the network or association's values are with yours. Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and find the vocal coaching networks and associations that suit you best.

4 How to join and get involved

Once you have chosen the vocal coaching networks and associations that you want to join, you need to follow their application process and requirements. To begin, visit their website and read their information, policies, and guidelines carefully. Afterwards, fill out their online or offline application form and provide any documents or evidence that they ask for. This could include your resume, portfolio, references, or certificates. Additionally, you may need to pay the membership fee and wait for their confirmation and approval. After being accepted, explore their resources, events, and opportunities and sign up for the ones that interest you. Additionally, connect with their members, staff, and leaders to introduce yourself and your goals. Finally, participate actively and regularly in their activities, discussions, and projects and contribute your ideas, opinions, and feedback.

5 How to make the most of them

If you want to reap the benefits of joining vocal coaching networks and associations, you need to be proactive, engaged, and respectful. To do this, set clear and realistic goals for what you want to achieve from joining and track your progress and results. Also, seek and offer value to the network or association and its members by sharing your knowledge, skills, experience, and resources. Furthermore, be open-minded and curious to learn from different perspectives, approaches, and backgrounds. Additionally, follow the network or association's rules, etiquette, and code of conduct while being respectful and professional. Lastly, be consistent and committed by showing up for the network or association's events, meetings, and projects; as well as being supportive and collaborative by helping other members with their challenges. By following these tips, you can find the best vocal coaching networks and associations for you while enjoying the benefits of being part of a community of vocal coaches and singers who share your passion and expertise.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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