What to Expect in Your First Vocal Coaching Session
If you've never worked with a vocal coach before, it's natural to wonder what you're walking into. Will you be asked to perform? Will someone judge your voice? Will it feel like a music lesson from fourth grade?
The short answer: none of the above.
It starts with a conversation
Before we do anything with sound, we focus on what is bringing you to the session. Maybe your voice feels tight or tired. Maybe there's always been a wish to sing but something gets in the way, or your voice doesn’t quite fit your profession in some aspect. You might have a clear reason or goal but you also don’t need one. General curiosity about your voice is a great place to begin.
I'll ask about your vocal history of singing and speaking, as past vocal experiences can have a long reach. The body/mind connection is especially interesting when it comes to the voice. The whole body is the vocal instrument, including our thoughts and feelings, and it’s important to begin where you feel comfortable.
This is also a two-way conversation. Questions about my background and my approach can help you get oriented and are all welcome.
It can be reassuring to know that first sessions typically have more conversation than follow up sessions and that the pace and focus are entirely up to you. Beginning with a rich context better aligns future sessions to your meet needs, and a discounted pack of four sessions is the most popular choice, but single sessions are useful. It helps to know if you want a single session upfront so that we can try to fit more into that time instead of going in depth. If you aren’t sure, I recommend treating the first session as one of possibly more and see where it goes. You will get the five elements exercises, personalized feedback, and follow up resources from either approach.
Then we make some sound
Not a performance. Not a test. Just exploration. We begin with the five elements (earth, fire, water, metal, and air) of the voice, which I explain and demonstrate. I invite you to make sounds along with me and when you are comfortable, to continue making sounds yourself. Hearing your own sounds gives your ear more direct feedback and often helps tune into the experience. I will ask you what you notice about making each sound and I’m interested in your unique experiences. I might ask you further questions, to hum, or sustain a tone, or try something that feels slightly strange and then notice what shifts. My methods are playful and body-based. It's about finding where your voice is free and where it's held, and exploring ways to find more freedom.
Sometimes people are surprised by what comes up. I am not a therapist but vocal work is therapeutic. I trust that you will only bring up what you are comfortable discussing, and if emotions arise they are welcome. Most people leave feeling more spacious than when they arrived, especially after follow up sessions.
You don't need to prepare anything
No song to practice, no scales to memorize. Bring your water or tea if you like. Comfortable clothing is best.
What people often notice afterward
With the five elements in mind, people often hear voices with a fresh ear. Understanding this vocal framework can lead to increased awareness of oneself and others.
It is also common after a first four pack of sessions to realize that you could do more than you thought. Goals might shift or multiply to meet your changing view of your voice and how you use it.
Interested in getting to know your voice better?
I offer vocal coaching in Olympia, WA and online. If you're curious whether this might be right for you, feel free to reach out. A conversation costs nothing.
My voice is a beloved friend who rescues me, knows me better than myself sometimes, and brings me great joy. Every voice is vast and magical. I hope to help you love yours.
