As summer fades and school begins, many families have been preparing for the Back-To-School season. Some of you who start school in August are already fully immersed in “school mode.” For me, this September is a time of reflection and innovation. I’m drawing on my 20+ years of experience as both a school teacher and vocal coach to explore more innovative ways to engage children in learning and to help singers discover how to use their voice effectively. My role as a coach and educator is to adapt my teaching to your learning style because I want to see you thrive, grow, and become the best version of yourself.
Whether you’re picking up a pen or taking your first breath before a song, self-expression is at the heart of both singing and writing. But it begs the question—between the two, which is easier?
The answer might surprise you. While they are completely unrelated skills on the surface, both singing and writing are deeply connected to human emotions and self-expression.
The Origins of Expression: From Crying to Singing
Babies are born with a voice—a powerful, innate tool that they use to communicate from their very first moments in the world. The first cry not only signals that they are alive but also forms the beginning of a lifelong bond between the child and their caregivers. A baby’s cry is a form of raw, unfiltered expression, and remarkably, they are able to scream and cry at full volume without damaging their vocal cords. In essence, we are all born with the ability to make ourselves heard, to use our voices, and to express our needs.
As we grow older, however, the way we use our voice becomes more complex. Singing is one of the most profound ways of using our voice to connect with others. It’s an extension of who we are, an emotional release, and a form of art. But it’s also a skill that requires nurturing and practice. Just like writing.
The First Day of School: A Shared Experience
Can you recall your very first day of school? How did you feel—anxious, excited, scared, or maybe even happy? For most of us, the first day of school is a mix of emotions, as we step into a new environment with unfamiliar faces. The same is true for our children. Considering how much time children spend at school, it’s no surprise that classmates and teachers, particularly the homeroom teacher, often become a child’s extended family.
From the very first day of school, writing is a central activity. It’s almost guaranteed that within hours of arriving, children are asked to write something—whether it’s drawing, writing their name, or composing a short story about themselves. Writing is a tool of communication, a way for children to express their thoughts and ideas. And it’s not just about putting pen to paper; it’s about finding your voice in a different medium.
Much like writing, singing is another powerful way to express yourself. And while children are often taught the mechanics of writing early on, many singers go years without proper vocal training. Singing, like writing, is an evolving form of self-expression that grows with time, practice, and feedback.
Feedback and Growth: The Key to Learning How To Sing
Feedback plays a critical role in both singing and writing. As children, we learn to hold a pencil correctly between our thumb and index finger, and with a little practice, we see our messy scribbles turn into neat, legible writing. Similarly, in singing, feedback from a teacher or coach can transform an off-key performance into a confident, polished rendition of a song.
However, not everyone is open to feedback, and this can be a major roadblock. In my experience as a vocal coach, I’ve seen two types of singers: those who embrace feedback and make changes, and those who resist it, often getting stuck in their old ways. The same is true for writing. Some children eagerly accept corrections and strive to improve, while others might become discouraged and give up altogether.
The key is not to resist change but to be the change you want to see. When working with singers, I provide specific feedback on what they are doing wrong and how to correct it. Most vocal issues stem from common problems like breath management, tension, or improper placement. If you trust the process and are willing to try new strategies, a little practice can go a long way. Before you know it, you’ll be singing like a pro.
Overcoming Fear: The Psychological Barriers to Success
One of the biggest challenges for both children and singers is overcoming fear. For children, fear of judgment often starts with comparing their writing to their peers. They might see that their handwriting isn’t as neat, or perhaps a parent has criticized their work. This pressure to improve can become overwhelming, causing anxiety and a lack of confidence.
As adults, we continue to experience this fear at a different level when it comes to singing. But often, the person putting the most pressure on us is ourselves. We strive for perfection, hoping to impress our audience—whether it’s friends, family, or strangers at an open mic night. However, it’s essential to recognize that mistakes are a natural part of learning. In both writing and singing, vulnerability leads to growth, and failure should be seen as an opportunity to improve.
If you find that fear is holding you back, the best way to combat it is by gaining a deep understanding of your voice. Vocal freedom comes from mastering the mechanics of singing, which in turn allows you to release your emotions and perform with authenticity.
The Impact of Technology: Handwriting vs. Vocal Engineering
In today’s digital age, handwriting is becoming a lost art, gradually being replaced by typing on keyboards and touchscreens. Similarly, in the music industry, technology can alter the human voice. With auto-tune and other vocal editing software, it’s possible to “fix” any vocal flaws during recording. But no amount of technology can replicate the emotional connection that a real human voice can create.
This is why it’s so important to understand your own voice. A singer who relies too much on vocal engineering will never experience the true freedom and satisfaction that comes from mastering their instrument. Your voice is unique, and the only way to reveal its full potential is by embracing the challenges and joys of vocal training.
The Value of Guidance: Why Coaching Matters
I currently teach both Junior and Senior Kindergarten, and I also work with adult singers in my vocal coaching practice. While these age groups are vastly different, I’ve noticed one commonality: regardless of age, we all yearn for success. And success comes much faster when we have the right guidance.
Whether you’re learning to write or learning to sing, practice is essential. But what makes the biggest difference is having a mentor or teacher who can provide constructive feedback and help you stay on the right path. Most of us didn’t learn to write by ourselves; we had parents and teachers guiding us along the way. The same is true for singing.
So, how satisfied are you with your singing right now? Do you ever dream of achieving more? Imagine what you could accomplish if you had the voice you’ve always wanted. You could form a band, record your own songs, build a fan base, or even tour the world. These dreams are not as far-fetched as they might seem. In my experience, I’ve seen countless singers transform their voices and achieve their goals—simply because they dared to dream and reached out for help.
Taking Action: The First Step Toward Vocal Mastery
If you’ve been feeling stuck in your singing, you have a choice: continue doing what you’ve always done and miss out on potential opportunities, or take action and seek guidance. Getting the voice of your dreams is possible, but it requires commitment and a willingness to learn.
I believe in the power of knowledge. If you know that your singing could be better and you’re ready to make a change, I can teach you everything you need to know to unlock your voice’s full potential. Together, we can work toward revealing your most exquisite and unique voice.
Take back what has always been yours.
Get started by watching my free masterclass: https://youtu.be/PzBWPG-KOnQ Or set up your FREE consultation with me today: https://www.voiceyourselfsinging.com/apply
Just do it,
Val