How 1-on-1 singing lessons helped Clarice improve vocal technique and build confidence in her range

Clarice Chung came to her singing lessons with a desire to overcome technical challenges and develop a more confident, expressive voice. 

Though passionate about singing, she often felt uncertain when tackling higher notes or transitioning smoothly between her chest and head voice. She struggled with breath control, pitch accuracy, and sustaining a clear tone throughout songs. 

Clarice’s goal was to sing with greater freedom, power, and emotional connection, mastering songs that demanded both vocal strength and subtlety.

Before working with her tutor, Algirdas Bagdonavičius, Clarice’s practice was inconsistent, and she sometimes felt overwhelmed by the complexity of vocal techniques. 

She also balanced singing with her family and daily commitments, which made focused practice difficult at times. Despite these challenges, her enthusiasm and willingness to learn were evident, setting the foundation for steady progress.

Why Clarice started singing lessons

Clarice decided to take formal singing lessons to build a solid foundation in vocal technique, improve her control, and expand her vocal range. 

She wanted to be able to perform songs she loved, such as “Hallelujah” and “Killing Me Softly,” with confidence and emotional authenticity. 

At the same time, Clarice was curious about improving her breathing, pitch precision, and how to transition smoothly between vocal registers, common challenges for many adult learners.

During the sessions, Clarice shared moments of hesitation about difficult exercises but expressed excitement about learning new skills. She also mentioned that her daughter was beginning to show an interest in singing, which motivated Clarice further. 

This family connection underscored how singing can be a shared joy and personal journey.

For parents like Clarice, whose kids also start showing interest in singing, can read this parents’ guide to singing lessons for kids on how they can help their kids in their vocal journey.

Real class insight: what Clarice worked on with Algirdas Bagdonavičius

During her lessons with Algirdas, Clarice engaged in a variety of targeted exercises and techniques designed to build a strong vocal foundation while addressing her specific challenges. 

Algirdas tailored each session to help her develop breath control, pitch accuracy, and smooth transitions between vocal registers, all essential skills for confident, expressive singing. 

Below are key areas of focus from their lessons, enriched by Clarice’s reflections and Algirdas’s expert guidance.

Vocal exercises and breath support

Algirdas guided Clarice through foundational exercises focusing on vowel and consonant sounds designed to open the throat and free airflow. 

He encouraged Clarice to “open your mouth more for the first note,” emphasizing the importance of relaxed inhalation and mouth shape for a smooth, connected tone. Clarice reflected, “It’s a little bit difficult, but I’m doing well.” 

Algirdas reminded her to monitor fatigue carefully, saying, “If your voice is getting tired, we must take pauses to protect it.” This mindful approach helped Clarice build stamina without strain.

Pitch accuracy and note transitions

Clarice practiced intricate note sequences, such as sliding between pitches and maintaining steady intonation throughout vocal runs.

Algirdas observed, “You are staying a little bit too high here, but you’re doing very well,” and helped her adjust pitch on challenging intervals. 

They worked on smoothing transitions and maintaining a “joyous” tone rather than sounding too “sad,” with Algirdas advising, “You have to smile on it.” Clarice acknowledged, “That part I struggle with, but I get it now.” 

This focus on emotional tone combined with technical precision made a big difference.

Chest and head voice coordination

A major breakthrough came as Clarice learned to coordinate chest and head voice registers.

Algirdas explained, “Think of the Z consonant coming from below,” helping Clarice visualize initiating sound from the lower body to support chest voice. 

She practiced strong, focused head voice notes to add resonance and clarity. Clarice shared, “Sometimes it’s hard, but I feel good about the progress.” 

Together, they worked on exercises that balanced power and smooth register shifts, a key step in expanding vocal range.

Song practice and musicality

Clarice applied her technical gains to repertoire including “Hallelujah,” “Killing Me Softly,” and “The Winner Takes It All.”

Algirdas praised her, “Your voice is powerful and dark, and you’re doing excellent,” while coaching phrasing, breath marks, and emotional delivery. 

Singing real songs gave Clarice confidence and motivation, connecting technique with personal expression.

Vocal health and pacing

Throughout lessons, Algirdas emphasized the importance of vocal health, comparing singing to sports training.

He advised, “After exercise, you should feel a good tiredness but not trauma,” reminding Clarice to hydrate and rest as needed. 

Clarice appreciated this balanced approach, saying, “I’m excited but also careful.” This mindset helped her avoid overexertion and maintain consistent progress.

The outcome: Clarice’s transformation and achievement

After several lessons, Clarice experienced notable improvements in her vocal technique and confidence. Her breath support became more reliable, allowing longer phrases and clearer tone. 

Pitch accuracy and smoothness in transitioning between chest and head voice registers significantly enhanced her singing range. Algirdas commented, “Every lesson you are making progress, and I’m very happy about your voice.” 

Clarice felt more secure in tackling challenging songs and expressed enthusiasm about her growing abilities.

Her ability to combine technical skill with emotional expression blossomed, enabling her to sing both soft, intimate passages and powerful climaxes with authenticity. 

This transformation energized her practice routine and inspired her daughter’s budding interest in singing, reinforcing a joyful musical family environment.

What you can learn from Clarice’s journey

• Consistent 1-on-1 coaching builds foundational vocal techniques essential for confident singing at any age.
• Focused breath control, vowel shaping, and pitch work are critical to improving tone and vocal stamina.
• Learning to coordinate chest and head voice registers expands vocal range and allows expressive flexibility.
• Applying exercises directly to songs strengthens musicality and keeps learning engaging.
• Protecting vocal health through pacing, hydration, and rest ensures steady progress without strain.

Adult singing learners can also benefit from practical resources like how to learn singing as an adult, to reinforce fundamentals and build confidence.

Try it yourself – book a free trial

• Receive personalized vocal exercises tailored to your voice type and goals.
• Get immediate, expert feedback on technique to correct habits and improve faster.
• Work on songs you love, developing both technical skills and emotional expression.
• Learn in a supportive environment that respects your pace and lifestyle.

Start with a free trial lesson from a professional vocal coach from Wiingy and experience the difference of 1-on-1 coaching.

Meet the tutor – Algirdas Bagdonavičius

Algirdas is a passionate vocal coach dedicated to helping students develop healthy technique, breath control, and expressive singing.

His teaching balances patience with expert guidance, ensuring vocal health while driving steady progress. Algirdas’s approach emphasizes connecting technical mastery with musicality, empowering learners to find their unique voice.

See more transformation stories

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Footnote: Student’s name has been changed for privacy.