Singing Lessons with a Guildhall School of Music and Drama Educator

The Student and Tutor focused on vocal ear training and breath support techniques. The Student practiced identifying and reproducing melodies, explored the concepts of major and minor tones, and engaged in physical exercises like a wall sit to improve vocal support and posture. Homework was assigned to analyze the first five melodies from a video by noting first impressions, visual shapes, and recognizable tunes, and to prepare for a test on Video 2 melodies.

The Student and Tutor reviewed goals for developing a solid vocal foundation and improving vocal confidence. They practiced breath support exercises and explored techniques for adding dynamic "color" and texture to the voice, particularly focusing on seamlessly blending chest, mixed, and head voice registers. A new technique involving gentle jawline manipulation was introduced and successfully applied during vocal agility exercises, and the Student was encouraged to record lessons to aid in self-review.

Student and Tutor engaged in a detailed session focusing on vocal technique and ear training. They practiced identifying complex melodic intervals, refined breathing support for vocal fluidity, and experimented with a new exercise to release jaw and tongue tension. Homework was assigned to continue practicing specific ear training exercises, incorporating the discussed vocal adjustments.

The Student and Tutor reviewed vocal warm-ups and exercises, focusing on breath support, jaw relaxation, and achieving a mixed voice connection. They practiced singing "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston, incorporating feedback on breath management and resonance. Homework was assigned to analyze the song's lyrics for breath points and vowel sounds, and to continue practicing singing while on a balance board to enhance core support.

The Student and Tutor practiced ear training using a YouTube video, focusing on melody recognition and segmenting complex phrases. They also worked on fundamental vocal techniques, including siren exercises for vocal stretching, conscious breath management to eliminate 'catch breaths,' and proper tongue placement to optimize resonance and minimize tension. The Student was given homework to continue body warm-ups before lessons and to practice the ear training video, applying the discussed strategies for breaking down melodies and controlling vocal descents.

Student and Tutor outlined a comprehensive learning plan for singing, focusing on ear training, sight-reading, and developing natural vocal technique. They selected diverse repertoire, including classical, musical theater, and pop songs, while also discussing the importance of body-voice connection and artistic interpretation. The Student will acquire a sight-reading book, and the Tutor will send music scores for the chosen songs for practice.