How do you adjust vocal coaching for different skill levels?

1 Assess their level

Before you start coaching a singer, you need to assess their current level of vocal skills, knowledge, and confidence. You can do this by asking them to sing a song of their choice, or by using a vocal assessment tool, such as the Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI). This will help you identify their vocal range, pitch accuracy, tone quality, breath control, resonance, articulation, and expression. You can also ask them about their musical background, goals, preferences, and challenges.

2 Set realistic goals

Based on your assessment, you can help your singer set realistic and achievable goals for their vocal development. For example, a beginner singer might want to learn the basics of vocal technique, such as posture, breathing, and vocal hygiene. An intermediate singer might want to improve their vocal agility, dynamics, and style. An advanced singer might want to master a specific genre, repertoire, or technique, such as belting, vibrato, or falsetto. You can use the SMART framework to make your goals specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound.

3 Choose appropriate exercises

Once you have your goals, you can choose appropriate vocal exercises to help your singer reach them. Vocal exercises are designed to warm up, strengthen, and train the voice. They can also help correct bad habits, prevent vocal strain, and enhance vocal performance. You should select exercises that match your singer's level, goals, and interests. For example, a beginner singer might benefit from simple scales, intervals, and arpeggios. An intermediate singer might need more complex patterns, melodies, and harmonies. An advanced singer might require more challenging exercises, such as vocal runs, trills, and riffs.

4 Provide constructive feedback

As a vocal coach, your feedback is crucial to help your singer improve and grow. You should provide constructive feedback that is honest, specific, and balanced. You should praise your singer for what they do well, and point out what they need to work on. You should also explain why and how they can improve, and give them clear and actionable steps to follow. For example, instead of saying "You sound flat", you could say "You need to support your breath more to sing in tune. Try this breathing exercise to strengthen your diaphragm."

5 Adjust your pace and style

Finally, you should adjust your pace and style of coaching to suit your singer's level and personality. You should be flexible and adaptable to their learning style, motivation, and progress. You should also be patient and supportive, and create a positive and safe learning environment. For example, a beginner singer might need more guidance, encouragement, and repetition. An intermediate singer might need more challenge, variety, and feedback. An advanced singer might need more autonomy, creativity, and collaboration.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?