Best vocal coaches in New York: Top 1-on-1 singing tutors, costs & how to choose

New York City isn’t just the city that never sleeps, it sings too.

From the bright lights of Broadway to intimate jazz clubs in Harlem and top-tier conservatories like Juilliard and Manhattan School of Music, NYC has a vibrant vocal scene for singers at every level. 

Whether you are a professional who dreams of performing, an intermediate prepping for auditions, or a beginner who wants to sing your heart out at karaoke night, working with a 1-on-1 singing tutor in NYC can help you hit the right notes.

From understanding how singing lessons work to finding the right coach for your style and budget, this guide has all the information you need, plus a roundup of the top-rated vocal coaches on Wiingy in New York.

Why work with a singing tutor in New York

New York has shaped some of the world’s most iconic vocalists like Lady Gaga, Christina Aguilera, and Beyoncé, all of whom honed their talent through personalized vocal training. 

Whether you’re chasing a Broadway callback, prepping for America’s Got Talent, or uploading covers to YouTube, working with a dedicated tutor can give you the edge you need to stand out. 

Here’s how personalized vocal coaching can support your journey:

• Customized vocal warm-ups and exercises designed by tutors to help you get into top NYC institutions like Juilliard and the Manhattan School of Music, where only the best make the cut.
• Real-time feedback to refine your tone, pitch, and style for high-stakes NYC auditions, where one note can make or break your chance.
• Confidence-building in a supportive space, ideal for rising performers who want to own the stage, whether it’s a SoHo jazz bar or a Midtown theatre.
• Flexible scheduling that fits around your packed NYC calendar, from open mics to school rehearsals and subway commutes.

How to choose the right singing tutor in New York

Finding the right singing tutor goes beyond just qualifications, it’s about choosing someone who truly understands your voice, your aspirations, and your preferred way of learning.

Here’s what to consider when selecting your ideal singing tutor in NYC:

• Experience with your level: Whether you’re gearing up for The Voice NYC auditions or preparing for an NYU Tisch vocal exam, choose a tutor who can train you at your pace and goal level.
• Style match: From Broadway ballads and jazz improvisation to pop showstoppers, classical arias, and musical theatre anthems, NYC audiences love versatility. Find a coach who can help you master the styles that thrive in local open mics, theatre showcases, and downtown jazz clubs.
• Format: NYC’s hustle never stops-from subway rides to side gigs. Whether you prefer the energy of in-person lessons or the convenience of flexible online sessions, choose a tutor who can fit into your busy schedule, helping you keep training without missing a beat.
• Flexibility: Choose a coach who offers trial lessons and can adapt to your changing calendar, auditions, or last-minute gigs.

Pro tip: Wiingy singing tutors are expert-vetted, offer free trials, and specialize across styles and age groups.

Top-rated singing tutors in New York

Looking for someone in New York who truly understands your voice? Wiingy connects you with standout 1-on-1 singing tutors who bring experience, expertise, and proven results with students of all ages and levels. 

Let’s go through a few of them:

1. Victoria Frisher – Problem-solving singing lessons with a hands-on approach

• Specialties: Music performance techniques, ear training, music theory
• Qualifications and experience: Professional singing tutor and singer with a master’s degree in music, Professional qualifications as a pop lead vocalist, ensemble vocalist, voice teacher in higher education, and music arts manager, over 15 years of performing practice, extensive studio work, and more than 9 years of teaching experience
• Ideal for: Students of all levels seeking a structured and systematic approach to vocal development

What makes Victoria stand out?

Victoria employs a hands-on, practical teaching methodology that focuses on developing vocal tone, diction, sound production, and breath control. She tailors lessons to each student’s unique voice, ensuring progress is both enjoyable and rewarding.

Students describe her as empowering and motivating, helping them improve their vocal technique while building confidence in their performance.

2. Presley Duyck – Engaging singing tutor with collaborative and adaptable lessons

• Specialties: Melody & pitch, sight singing, music production & recording, improvisation & composition
• Qualifications and experience: Berklee College of Music graduate with a degree in Interdisciplinary Music Studies, over 11 years of private vocal training, two years of teaching experience, and multiple award nominations for work in musical theatre
• Ideal for: Aspiring performers and students interested in a personalized and student-centered approach​

What makes Presley stand out?

Presley brings a wealth of industry knowledge and hands-on expertise into each lesson. She offers a collaborative, interactive learning environment where she adapts her teaching style to suit every student. 

With performance assessments and theory quizzes, Presley tracks progress and offers personalized suggestions for improvement, ensuring a tailored experience for each student. 

Students describe her as encouraging and supportive where they can comfortably explore their voice, improve their skills and deepen their connection with music.

3. Thomas Gerrelli – Hands-on singing tutor with interactive, engaging methods

• Specialties: Music theory, rhythm & beat, music performance techniques, melody & pitch
• Qualifications and experience: Bachelor’s degree in Commercial Music, professional singer since age 16, with extensive research and adaptation to different techniques and styles
• Ideal for: Singing for beginners, kids and all levels, including those with ADHD, ASD, learning disabilities, anxiety, or stress disorders​

What makes Thomas stand out? 

Thomas tailors lessons to each student’s unique abilities and interests. He uses interactive tools like metronomes, DAWs, and ear training software, Thomas helps students develop both technical skills and a deep connection with music.

By evaluating each student’s musical abilities and interests, he incorporates improvisation and composition exercises to spark creativity and ensure that each session includes adequate warm-up and cool-down time to use the voice properly and safely. 

Students describe him as adaptable and inspiring, appreciating his ability to make learning fun and effective.

4. Sage Bava Melcher – Music lessons in piano, guitar, singing, composition and songwriting

• Specialties: Ear training, music theory, project help
• Qualifications and experience: Masters in Contemporary Performance/Production from Berklee School of Music and jazz piano diploma from Eastman School of Music
• Ideal for: Students interested in a creative and interactive learning environment​

What makes Sage stand out?

Sage’s teaching philosophy focuses on creative strategies nurturing a passion for music. Through improvisation and composition exercises, she encourages creativity and helps students develop their own unique musical style. 

Sage incorporates digital music production software to teach theory and composition, crafting personalized lesson plans that cater to each student’s needs and goals.

Students describe her lessons as creative and engaging, with a focus on making learning both fun and educational.

5. Bruno Elisabetsky – Singing and guitar lessons with empathy and practical support

• Specialties: Ear training, music theory
• Qualifications and experience: Master’s degree in vocals and a Degree in Performance in Guitar 
• Ideal for: Students of all levels seeking a fun and engaging learning environment​

What makes Bruno stand out?

Bruno specializes in teaching students of all levels, using a methodology rooted in empathy, engagement, patience, and support. He believes in practical learning that allows students to build a strong foundation in music theory, creative expression and ear training supporting their specific musical goals. 

Bruno uses performance assessments and theory quizzes to track progress. Each lesson is personalized to the student’s preferred genres and instruments, ensuring a tailored approach to theory and practice.

Students describe him as patient and supportive, with a gift for making complex concepts easy to understand while keeping lessons fun and engaging.

Want to explore more options? Check out all our expert singing tutors in NYC on Wiingy – offering free trials, flexible formats, and coaching tailored to your voice!

Inside a 1-on-1 singing lesson: 3 real student stories

Wondering what progress really looks like? These stories from real Wiingy students show how the right coach can unlock your voice and your confidence.

“From breathy to bold” – Ethan

Ethan worked with Eric, an expert singing tutor at Wiingy to improve his vocal dynamics and build confidence while singing emotionally rich songs like “Amazing Grace.” Together, they focused on clear diction, proper breath support, and vocal projection without strain.

What you’ll learn: Dynamic control, Clarity in diction, Confidence

“Finding power in the quiet” – Oliver

Oliver worked with Samara, a top-rated singing tutor at Wiingy to improve his low notes and emotional delivery in songs like “Cry Me a River.” With exercises focused on core support, diction, and expressiveness, Oliver gained more vocal control and confidence.

What you’ll learn: Core engagement, emotional phrasing, low note clarity

“Unlocking my high notes” – Sophia

Sophia struggled with high notes and breath control. Reagan, a vocal coach at Wiingy, helped her understand airflow and vocal placement, allowing her to hit high notes with stability and confidence.

What you’ll learn: Breath support, high note technique, overcoming self-doubt

Singing lesson costs in New York

Vocal lessons in NYC can vary widely in cost based on experience, format, and goals. Here’s a breakdown to help you budget smartly-no matter where you’re starting from.

Option	Price range	Format	Best for
Budget-friendly tutors	$15 – $40/hr	Online	Beginners, casual learners
Mid-level private tutors	$50 – $150/hr	In-person or online	Intermediate singers, audition prep
Celebrity/high-end coaches	$150 – $300/hr	In-person or online	Professionals, high-stakes auditions

Note: Wiingy offers a free trial, no contracts, and flexible scheduling.

Online vs in-person singing tutors in New York

Both online and in-person vocal coaching have their perks. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide what suits your voice-and your lifestyle-best.

Format	Pros	Cons
Online	Flexible, affordable, access to wide range of vocal coaches	May lack physical cues and instant feedback, requires stable internet
In-person	Great for performance coaching, hands-on support	More expensive, less schedule flexibility

Note: Wiingy allows you to switch formats anytime-so you get the best of both worlds.

How to get started with a singing tutor on Wiingy

Ready to take the leap? Getting started with a voice coach is easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Browse singing tutors in New York
2. Book a free trial
3. Start singing with someone who understands your goals

FAQs

Can I start singing in my 30s?

Yes! Many people start singing in their 30s and progress significantly with practice as vocal chords, like any other muscles, can be developed with practice and persistence. It’s never too late to develop your voice and enjoy singing.

To learn more about how adults can successfully start their singing journey with he help of expert vocal coaches, check out this helpful article on How to learn singing as an adult.

How much do singing lessons cost in New York?

Singing lessons in New York typically range from $15 to $300 per hour, depending on the instructor’s qualifications and experience, lesson format, and lesson duration.

How can singing tutors at Wiingy help me learn singing as a returning learner?

Expert vocal coaches tailor lessons to your needs, providing flexible schedules, personalized feedback, and a supportive environment. Tutors at Wiingy offer a free trial and flexible tutor switching, so you can find your perfect match.

Conclusion

New York City is full of rhythm, melody, and opportunity, and there’s a place in it for your voice. Whether you’re just starting or trying to level up, working with the right singing tutor can help unlock your potential. Ready to find yours?

Start learning today with top-rated singing tutors on Wiingy, NYC’s go-to platform for flexible, personalized voice lessons.