Is there free vocal training?
Vocal training refers to exercises and techniques aimed at developing and improving one’s singing voice and abilities. Proper vocal training focuses on posture, breathing, vocal flexibility, range expansion and developing a healthy technique to avoid strain or damage to the vocal cords.
Studies show vocal training provides many benefits beyond just singing, including improved mood, reduced stress, increased confidence and better mental cognition. However, private lessons with vocal coaches or teachers can be quite expensive, ranging anywhere from $50-200 per hour on average.
Youtube Tutorials
There are many free YouTube channels that provide vocal lessons for beginners, making it one of the most accessible resources for free vocal training. Many vocal coaches and teachers offer introductory tutorials covering the basics like breathing techniques, pitch, tone, range, etc. Some recommended YouTube channels for beginners include New York Vocal Coaching, Eric Arceneaux, Thomas Michael, and Singing Everything. These channels have straightforward step-by-step lessons for vocal warm ups, expanding range, breath control, and more fundamentals to start developing a foundation. While online YouTube lessons alone may not be enough to master advanced techniques, they provide an easy way to start learning proper singing basics at no cost.
Online Courses
Online learning platforms like Udemy and Coursera offer a variety of affordable singing courses for all levels of experience. These courses provide more structure than free tutorials on YouTube, with video lessons, quizzes, assignments, and instructor feedback. While not completely free, prices for online courses are generally very reasonable, often less than $20. Courses focus on techniques like breathing, pitch, tone, expanding vocal range, and performance skills.
According to reviews on sites like Reddit, singer enthusiasts have found online singing courses through Udemy and Coursera to be high quality and worthwhile investments for improving vocal skills. The interactive format and accountability of regular assignments and assessments helps singers stay motivated and see measurable progress. While not a replacement for in-person lessons, affordable online singing courses provide an accessible option for structured training.
Apps
There are several apps available for iOS and Android that offer free vocal training exercises and feedback (The Singers Corner, 2022). Apps like SingTrue provide real-time pitch monitoring, vocal range analysis, and singing lessons for beginners. You can get feedback on your pitch accuracy, use voice warm-ups and exercises, and learn proper singing techniques. Other popular apps like Vanido guide you through vocal lessons and technique tutorials. Apps make it convenient to practice singing anytime and anywhere.
However, apps have limitations compared to working with an in-person vocal coach. They can analyze and provide feedback on some technical elements like pitch and range, but can’t listen and respond to your voice’s unique qualities. In-person training is more customized to your individual vocal needs. Apps also lack the accountability and expert guidance of a real teacher. So while apps are a free and accessible option, they may not be as effective as professional vocal lessons for serious training.
Choirs
Community and church choirs provide training focused on choral singing. Singing in choirs has many benefits including improved health, concentration, confidence, and sense of belonging. According to an article on the Interkultur website, singing in choirs provides 13 different physical, mental, and social benefits including improved lung function, posture, immune system, mood, and relationships (source). The University of Illinois Chicago notes that being part of choirs teaches discipline, hard work, goal setting, concentration, and confidence (source). While choirs do not provide formal vocal training, participating provides an opportunity to regularly practice and improve singing technique.
Colleges
Many colleges have open vocal ensembles that are available for non-music majors to participate in. This can be a great way to gain vocal experience and learning without having to pay tuition or be an enrolled student.
For example, according to ThoughtCo, many colleges allow non-majors to audition for ensembles like choirs, jazz groups, and more. Ithaca College has a campus choral ensemble open to any student, even those with little experience, as noted on their website. Participating in these college vocal groups can provide valuable practice and growth for non-majors’ singing abilities.
Checking for open vocal ensembles at local colleges can be a free way to receive vocal instruction and be part of a musical community.
Music Libraries
Many public libraries offer free resources that can supplement vocal training, such as sheet music, method books, and CD recordings. By taking advantage of a library’s music section, you can gain access to instructional materials and printed scores to practice with, often for just the cost of a library card.
Most libraries allow members to check out books, musical scores, and CDs. For a vocal student, having free access to sheet music and methodology books can be hugely beneficial for self-teaching and expanding your repertoire. Libraries commonly loan method books for various music skills like sight-singing, music theory, vocal exercises, and more. These can provide structured lessons and techniques to follow.
In addition to print resources, some libraries may also have audio recordings of choir music, opera arias, and other vocal pieces that you can listen to and study. Having access to professional recordings lets you hear examples of proper technique and interpretation. Overall, leveraging your local public library can give you useful tools for self-teaching and vocal development.
Free Workshops
Some music stores and organizations offer free workshops for vocal training. These workshops are usually hosted by vocal coaches or professional singers and provide an opportunity to receive feedback and instruction at no cost. Attendees can meet potential teachers and try out a lesson in a low-pressure environment before committing to paid lessons.
For example, local music shops often host free seminars or short workshops as a way to reach new students. Similarly, community choirs, theaters, and arts organizations may offer free vocal sessions as part of their educational or outreach programming. These are great options for beginners looking to understand the basics of vocal technique and try singing in a group setting. Free workshops can range from an hour overview class to a multi-week introduction covering foundational skills.
While availability varies by location, those interested can check music store bulletin boards, community calendars, local papers, and social media for announcements. Free vocal workshops provide a chance to experience instructed singing and get feedback at no cost. They can help aspiring singers determine if they wish to pursue further paid instruction.
Limitations of Free Vocal Training
While free vocal training resources can help you improve, there are some limitations to be aware of compared to paid private voice lessons:
Lack of 1-on-1 coaching and feedback. With free options like videos or group workshops, you won’t get personalized critique and correction of your technique. This tailored feedback is invaluable for identifying bad habits and making efficient progress.
Progress may be slower than private lessons. Without an expert instructorcustomizing lessons to your needs and nudging you out of your comfort zone, it may take longer to improve. Those new to singing especially benefit from expert guidance.
Conclusion
This article has discussed various free options for vocal training, including YouTube tutorials, online courses, apps, joining choirs, taking classes at colleges or universities, utilizing music libraries, and attending free workshops. While these free resources can provide a good foundation in the fundamentals of singing technique, breath control, music theory, and more, private vocal instruction with a qualified teacher is ideal for focused vocal development and addressing individual strengths and weaknesses. Paying for private lessons allows for personalized feedback and training tailored to your specific voice and goals. However, free training can be a great start, and this article has outlined diverse ways to begin improving your voice without spending money.
The key is to utilize free resources diligently – watch vocal tutorial videos regularly, do the exercises, read up on technique, and find opportunities to practice. This can establish solid fundamentals to build upon later with professional instruction. While natural talent contributes, vocal ability also improves with consistent training and practice over time. So take advantage of these free options outlined here to make progress, while saving up for private lessons down the road to maximize your potential.