Shipp Studio of Voice

For kids, voice lessons are all about learning as many kinds of songs as possible while using a natural, unforced voice. Age-appropriate vocal exercises and songs are practiced. Musical skills are taught using the Young Singer’s Journey workbook series for at-home study, supplemented with in-lesson activities.

 

Involvement and support from parents/guardians is especially important for this age group. Students must be given encouragement, time, and space to practice throughout the week, as well as reliable transportation to lessons and singing events.

 

I highly recommend that children participate in group music activities whenever possible to supplement their private lessons. These are available through schools, churches, and theatre groups. It is my observation that interest wanes quickly without outside context. As much as possible, I distribute information about camps, classes, and performance groups.

 

Though songs are a great way to improve language skills, I have found that students with at least an average first-grade reading level are the most successful in private voice lessons. Here are some lyrics from songs I might teach a six-year-old:

 

“Land of the silver birch,

Home of the beaver,

Where still the mighty moose

Wanders at will.”

 

“I can see clearly now, the rain is gone.

I can see all obstacles in my way.

Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind.

It’s gonna be a bright, bright, sunshiny day.”

 

If your child can read those lyrics (even if they have to “sound out” some of the words), they are probably ready for voice lessons. If they are not quite there yet, I recommend waiting a year or two. In the meantime, you might consider piano or other instrumental lessons with teachers that specialize in very young students.