Sunday 26 August 2007

Online singing lessons or learning one-to-one from a teacher?


Making the decision between taking online singing lessons and having private one-to-one lessons can be a tough call. Most people would probably make the decision based on one thing... and that's cost.

But I'll tell you something for nothing ...as much as cost might be an important factor to consider, there are other things on the list which are equally as important, if not even more crucial to think about for later on down the road.

Let's go through a couple of these things.

We'll start with the obvious.


Cost: "It's not about my wallet... or is it?"

Having one-to-one vocal training means you'll pay between $30 - $100 (£25 - $75) per hour. I know it sounds like a lot, but usually you CAN find a good vocal coach for around $40 per hour.

If you're going to go down this route, you better be sure you put in the practice in your own time, otherwise it's simply not worth it. I have students that pay me to teach them, but then don't put in the time and practice themselves outside of lesson time.

Of course there are many who want to sing for fun. This is cool if you have the cash to spare. But if you don't, try to be some what serious about wanting to improve your vocal ability.

Having online vocal lessons means that you will more likely pay a one time fee for a singing course that will guide you into becoming a better singer. Prices range from around $47 all the way to $300. I'm sure there are courses which charge around four figures, but personally I haven't seen any.

With online vocal lessons, you won't be paying weekly for a 'live' vocal coach. This option is good for your wallets.


The Personal Touch: "The Constant Nagger or The Perfect Mentor..."

Having a real vocal coach means that you can interact with one another. This is great if you are comfortable around those who tell you what to do. You can have any questions you have answered instantaneously. Your teacher (if he/she is a good one) will motivate you and inspire to become a better singer each and every time you have a lesson.

With online vocal lessons, you don't have that direct 'live' interactivity. You will need to motivate yourself as there won't be a teacher on your back reminding you to practice :-) Self discipline will be the name of the game.

Location: "I love my space... do I need to get out?"

Having a live vocal coach will often mean that you'll have to travel to where they teach from. Sure, some vocal trainers do 'house visits', but in my experience a vocal coach is at his/her best when they're at their own domain.

So, this means the student (ie. a potential YOU), will have to go to their house/studio to take your singing lesson. If you don't have a problem travelling, then this is a good option. Sometimes, you will find that travelling outdoors before talking a class in learning can really help you absorb the information.

On the other hand, taking online singing lessons will mean that you can learn from the comfort of your own home. Again, the only thing that will get in your way is self-discipline. You will need to get yourself up, dust off the cobwebs and DIY (do it yourself) on a regular basis to get the best results.


There is no 'right option' here. Everybody is different. You need to take a look at yourself and figure out how you might be able to learn in the best possible way.

Some will prefer online singing lessons while others will prefer private one-to-one vocal lessons.

Make the decision and then move forward...

Shamir