I used to sing backing vocals in a rock covers band back in 2010-2012. I had never really sung before, but I was the only one that volunteered. Initially it was all shouting "London Calling" in Clash songs, but eventually I got vaguely OK at it if never especially good and I enjoyed it as it was much more of a challenge than playing the basslines to most indie songs.
Since leaving the band I haven't really sung at all in 18 months (I'm not even someone who sings in the shower/car) as the band I was in since 2013 had a couple of people who could do three part harmonies with the lead vocalist and so it didn't seem like it was worth my while trying to contribute anything.
So now I'm in a new band and again I'm the only one that's prepared to sing backup, but the problem is the material is much more challenging (soul), the singer is awesome and isn't really known for her patience so I'm a bit intimidated (yes I'm lame enough to be intimidated by a girl ten years younger than me), so long story short I'm thinking about having a few singing lessons.
Anyone done it, and if so was it a great help?
For some reason I think I'll feel like a bit of a prick doing it though I'm not sure why.
Also any recommendations for soul/pop vocal coach in Suffolk would be much appreciated.
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I think a friend of a friend is a singing coach. I'll try and get hold of her if'you're interested?
Edit, scrub that, I've just spoken to Mental Bird, her friend doesn't do the teaching.
Ringleader of the Cambridge cartel, pedal champ and king of the dirt boxes (down to 21)
My wife is a singing coach. Before I met her I used to tear the shit out of my voice. Now I can sing easier, better and with far less fallout from the strain.
It is embarrassing at first but it's like going to the doctors with a lump on your balls. It's their job to help and they'll have seen far worse before.
Wish me luck!
GOOD LUCK!
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Studio: https://www.voltperoctave.com
Music: https://www.euclideancircuits.com
Me: https://www.jamesrichmond.com
She's certainly helped me with the little instruction I've allowed her to give me but that's my problem, stupidity and pride
Good luck and it's worthwhile thing and adds another string to your Gretsch!
Good luck.
Just remember to ask them to warm their hands before having a feel.
EDIT: I think I may have confused reality with analogy.
I'd be interested to compare how the lessons go, my teacher seems to have lots of students and has been doing it for a lot of years but i expected a lot more from each session.
So far she has talked (a lot!) about the need for technique (despite my pleas that i get it and that why i'm there), and we've run through some scales while she talks about holding my breath while singing to get me away from using my throat. I'll give her another couple of goes but I'm running out of ways to explain that i want practical techniques i can practise not theory.
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I did AmDram years ago, and the choir master made us all do singing tests - I found out I was naturally a tenor, not a baritone. Which was nice .....
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