Vocal Advice

I have been studying voice for about 3 years with private teachers. I’ve been told that I have incredible potential but started too late, so that casting managers wouldn’t want to see a 30 year old auditioning. The problem is I still believe I could make singing my profession am I wasting my time?

ANSWER: Dominika, you ask a tough question!

Understand that my reply can only be based on what you’ve told me.  Some things I’m going to assume.  Since you’re in your later twenties, your vocal apparatus is nearing its full (early) maturity.  In other words, other than development of technique and more facility by it, your voice is going to continue to sound and feel much as it does now.  One thing I’ll assume is that after 3 years of study, your habits (all that goes into the act of singing) and technique are becoming secure and reliable.  You must be encouraged by the fact that you’ve been told you have “incredible potential.”

That said, the path of “breaking into the profession” as a singer - especially making a living at it - is not an easy road.  I’d recommend that you learn as many roles that are appropriate for your voice type and classification in the genre in which you sing, as possible.  Audition, audition, audition.  Take every opportunity and invitation to sing that comes your way.  Be willing to start small … local companies, civic groups, churches, synagogues, and every time prove to yourself (and your coaches) and your audiences that you have something special.  Audition for competitions as a “young artist.”  One other thing: managers who look for singers for opera, operetta and music theater are concerned about the health and physical appearance of the singers they hire.  If you’re fit and trim on top of being a wonderful singer and actress your chances are better for procuring roles for which you audition.

It shouldn’t take long for you to find out whether you “have it” to pursue the stage.  However, be aware, that few singers make singing their sole means of income.   Most of us who sing professionally, also teach or do something else also.

I hope this is encouraging to you.  All the best as you pursue what you love.

I sing for a local band in Goa - India.    But I want to make it big worldwide?  I don’t know what to do.    Are there any institutes that I can/should join in India or maybe UK that will train me and do recordings?

Answer: Allow me to offer you some suggestions, although they may not be what you want to hear.

1.  Continue to make a name for yourself in Goa.  You’ve gotten the right start.

2.  Gather up enough savings to pay for a recording to be made.  Start with just 1,000 CDs (and/or DVDs) and sell them locally first.  They should be available for purchase at the place you perform.  If/when those are sold, use the profits for a reprinting and order/sell more.

3.  Post a video of yourself performing with the band on YouTube.com, or MySpace.  This is free world-wide publicity - and you’ll get some honest responses to your performing.

4.  Don’t stop training.  Become a better singer and performer.  Find a trustworthy teacher and commit yourself to healthy singing habits.
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