How 1-on-1 singing lessons helped Mason overcome self-doubt and start discovering his voice

For many aspiring singers, the journey from doubt to confidence can feel daunting.

Mason’s story is a powerful example of how personalized, one-on-one singing lessons helped him break through his fears and start truly discovering his unique voice.

Hear Mason tell his story

Mason’s journey: From nervous beginner to hopeful vocalist

Mason, a coffee shop shift lead from Springfield, Missouri, always loved music. From listening to Taylor Swift and Shawn Mendes to watching musicals and American Idol, music had long been a joyful escape for him. 

But despite his passion for singing, he had never taken a formal lesson or performed in a choir. Singing in front of others felt intimidating.

That changed when Mason took a leap and enrolled in 1-on-1 online vocal lessons with Esther, a vocal coach at Wiingy. Even after just two lessons, he began feeling more confident and connected to his voice. 

Here’s how personalized guidance helped Mason embrace his potential and enjoy singing in a whole new way.

Why Mason started singing lessons

Mason had always loved to sing, but never studied it formally. He didn’t sing in school choirs or church choirs and had no prior training. When he finally decided to learn how to sing properly, his main motivation was to build confidence and feel comfortable performing for others.

“I haven’t done this a lot before, so I thought working one-on-one would be the most helpful. I wanted to gain confidence to actually go out there and start singing.”

Initially searching for in-person lessons, Mason ended up matched with an online vocal coach and that twist turned out to be the best thing that could’ve happened.

If you’re new to singing and don’t know where to begin, check out this step-by-step guide to learning singing. It covers everything from warm-ups to breath control and is perfect for beginners like Mason.

Real class insight: What Mason worked on with Esther

In their 1-on-1 sessions, Esther focused on encouraging Mason while helping him understand and apply foundational vocal techniques. From mouth positioning to vocal warm-ups and ear training, their work together built the basics Mason had never learned before.

“Esther is super encouraging. She gives me homework and believes in me. It’s really helpful having someone who’s good at singing and also gives me something to work toward.”

Improving vocal confidence: Learning to trust his voice

Mason’s biggest barrier wasn’t range or rhythm, it was self-doubt. But during one vocal scale exercise, something clicked.

“We were singing through scales, and for the first time, I felt confident. Esther was very encouraging. She said I had a good voice, and that stuck with me.”

While he still has moments of nervousness, Mason says the personal feedback and positive reinforcement helped him feel more at ease expressing himself.

Exploring vocal range: Reaching new notes

One of Mason’s early challenges was understanding how to match pitch and stay on key, especially with octave jumps. He sometimes sang higher than necessary and struggled to control his ear. But Esther worked patiently with him.

“I didn’t really have an ear for it at first, but I’m willing to grow in that. Sometimes I’d just go way higher than I needed to. Esther helped me learn where my voice should land.”

Through scales and exercises, Mason began to explore and expand his range, surprising himself with what he could do.

The outcome: A more confident, expressive singer

After just two lessons, Mason already noticed a shift in how he approached singing.

“I used to sing without opening my mouth much, I was holding back. But Esther gave me mouth exercises, and now I feel more expressive when I sing.”

Though he still sees a lot of room to grow, he now has tools to support that journey-and the belief that he can improve.

Bonus insight: Online lessons work!

Like many first-timers, Mason was unsure if online vocal lessons would work. But once he experienced it, his doubts disappeared.

“I was nervous going into it, but honestly, I don’t even notice a difference compared to in-person. It’s just as helpful. The personal interaction with the tutor is great.”

Even though his journey began unexpectedly with an online match, Mason says it worked out perfectly and he wouldn’t change a thing.

Curious about how adults like Mason can make real progress with online lessons? Read this guide to learning singing as an adult for tips on building skill and confidence at any age.

What you can learn from Mason’s journey

• You don’t need formal experience to start. Mason had never taken a lesson before this.
• The right coach builds confidence by making you feel seen and supported.
• You can grow quickly-even in just a couple of sessions-with the right encouragement and feedback.
• Online learning can be just as personal and effective as in-person training.

If you’re a parent considering lessons for your child, this parent’s guide to singing lessons for kids breaks down when to start, what to expect, and how to support your child’s progress.

Try it yourself – book a free trial

Work with expert vocal tutors like Esther, who can:

• Help you overcome nervousness and find your voice
• Teach you vocal technique and breath control, even as a beginner
• Provide personalized feedback and real-time support
• Empower you to sing confidently, whether it’s Shawn Mendes or show tunes

Book your free trial lesson today and start discovering your voice, just like Mason did.

Meet the tutor – Esther-Olivia Odesanmi

Esther is a vocal coach at Wiingy known for her supportive, encouraging, and practical teaching style. With a deep understanding of beginner singers’ challenges, she helps students explore their potential while building confidence and solid technique.

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