Does one naturally have a good singing voice?
Or do singers have to work for it and practice? Or is it both? Just curious, I don’t sing, just a random question I thought of.
Answer: Good question!
The greatest singers were and are all gifted to begin with. Those who “naturally have a good singing voice” sound appealing, find it easy to sing and enjoy it immensely. When such singers then go on to study voice and become accomplished musicians as well – those few can make a career and a living from their singing. I’m speaking from the point of view of classical training. It’s hard work, but rewarding. (It seems most anyone who has the hutspa to record themselves and post a video on YouTube has a fair shot at becoming wildly popular. But that is not necessarily equivalent to having a good singing voice!)
Unfortunately, we live in a day when “easy answers” and “quick fixes” trick many into a false notion that “becoming a great singer” is just a few voice lessons away.
When I began teaching voice 30+ years ago, I believed that ‘EVERYBODY’ could learn to sing. Experience has shown me, however, that without some God-given talent, a well developed ear and a passion for singing, there are some–a few—no matter how earnest, who will not be able to sing musically.
On the other side of the coin, there are a number of folk who just enjoy singing who don’t realize that they have incredible voices – until someone comes along and tells them so. When they find this out, it sometimes changes the direction of their career. I know of several wonderful singers who began their studies in medicine or law – and “discovered” that they had a wonderful voice and the musicianship to make something of it.
So, “yes” it’s both – to become successful. One has to have both native talent and the passion and drive to discipline oneself to develop it under the guidance of an expert.
Even if you think of yourself as a non-singer – go ahead and sing. It’s good for the soul.
Best wishes.
Tags: good singing, good voice, natural singing, practice, vocal study