common-questions-about-singing lessons, production and marketing your music
WHO DO I WORK WITH?
• I work with absolute beginners who believe they can’t sing on the note or on beat.
• I work with experienced singers who are frustrated because they’ve been working on their voice for a long time but still can’t get the sound they’re after.
• I work with people who have no idea what they can do with they voice but want to explore it for fun.
• I work with advanced singers who want to walk into auditions, perform and smash it.
Whether you are a rapper, a singer, a songwriter, a producer, an engineer, or an aspiring student, I am here to help you learn music and improve your abilities to sing.
Really, I work with anyone who is passionate about singing or excited to learn a new skill to boost their self-esteem.
WHAT METHOD DO YOU TEACH?
A:I teach Hindustani Classical Music Vocals. You will learn
- warm up exercises,
- bols – vocalization of tabla sounds eg. dhaa, ga, ge, gi, ka, ke, dhi, dhin, tin, tun, tit, ti, te, Ta, tr, naa, ne, re, khat, taa, dhaage etc.
- counting of the bols,
- singing warm – up exercises in various tempos,
- demystify the true meaning of music
- the history and heritage of North Indian Classical Music.
WHAT TO EXPECT AS A STUDENT FOR SINGING LESSONS ?
Every lesson is aimed at making you comfortable and at ease so that you are able to enjoy yourself and the music. You can come in, learn and push yourself as little or as much as you would like to that day. You don’t need to know singing but you should be enthusiastic about your voice and yourself.
Lessons are completely tailored to your goal and your vision of your voice.We start with vocal exercises to gently warm up your voice, dip into basics of Hindustani Classical Music and then work on the songs we’ve chosen together. I will never give you a song to practice that you don’t enjoy.Also,I won’t hesitate on sharing something that you would find interesting to add to your repertoire.We will work on it as a team – sounds good?
WOULDN’T IT BE EASY FOR ME TO LEARN A CONTEMPORARY METHOD OF SINGING?
Not likely.
Can you sing the detailed nuances of your favorite Bollywood songs without any prior training? Very unlikely. Many contemporary singers attempt to develop their contemporary singing technique first because they view it as a more direct route to achieving their goals. It may seem an easy approach but you might experience vocal health problems and limitations of your skills.
Learning to sing from me will help you to understand your vocal range, identify the strengths and weaknesses of your voice, tap unchartered territories of sound or musical phrases you may have never heard/experienced, make better song choices for performances, and be aware of the plethora of opportunities available to you as a singer.
WILL I BE ABLE TO LEARN HOW TO PRODUCE SOUNDS THAT ARE AUTHENTIC TO MY DESIRED (CONTEMPORARY) GENRE ?
Classical technique is not genre specific, and can be effectively applied to both contemporary and classical genres of singing. The majority of my students are not limited to performing classical vocal music. They sing in genres ranging from adult contemporary, folk, pop, jazz, classical, choral, carnatic and Bollywood, and everything else in between. And they do not sound like classical singers when they are performing their own repertoire, unless they choose to.
Classical techniques that I teach will help you become versatile as artists.You will develop a healthy, free, open, balanced style of singing which will enable you to experiment with contemporary qualities and effects in the future.
DO YOU TEACH CHILDREN?
I do. My youngest student was 3 years old – curious and full of natural potential. Every kid is unique in his/her potential. Most of the times it’s taken me not more than 1 lesson to connect with them.
I also encourage parents to learn singing with their kids to keep each other accountable.It really works like a charm!
DO YOU OFFER ANY PRE-RECORDED DVDs OR INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS?
Not at the moment.
Most of the lessons are received in a ‘live’ setting.I ensure that the quality of voice instructions delivered to you are the best. You are welcome to record each lesson and use them to practice at home.
I may be contacted directly for further information about personalized scales.
I offer a wide variety of lesson options – from group classes to week-long private intensives to weekly private lessons to one-time assessments to personalized video lessons – that could fit nearly any budget. I am also always available through e-mail to answer any singing related questions free of charge. I try to make quality vocal instruction as accessible as possible worldwide.
I ONLY WANT TO SING FOR A HOBBY .IS IT WORTH IT FOR ME TO TRAIN MY VOICE?
A. Do you take a bath? I mean really, it just matters how good you want to appear, not how much money you get for it. If lessons make you sound good, and singing makes you feel good and makes the people that love to hear you happy, put it in your life.
Q. COULD YOU PLEASE TELL ME A BIT ABOUT THE STRUCTURE OF YOUR LESSONS?
A. Each lesson involves a period of warming up and stretching the muscles – it is always best to sing only after a warm up. The basics involve teaching scales and vocalizes, posture, breathing, tone quality, vowels, support, and much more. In each lesson, I will try to incorporate a new idea into the singers voice, and revise the basic techniques of singing.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY MAKES YOU UNIQUE OR DIFFERENT THAN OTHER TEACHERS?
A. When you have a lesson with me, I approach your learning in two ways. First, I constantly challenge you, ask questions relating to the technique, push and make you work hard at the exercise. I rarely give away the answer until I have seen that you have at least tried to solve it yourself. This makes you understand where you are going wrong, as well as makes you think about your own voice.
Second, I allow you to record every lesson on your phone so that you can see where you are going right and wrong. This is an excellent learning tool allowing you to understand better through visual tools as well as verbal, your voice. You also get a lesson plan of each class, music clips and vocalizes for the month as a reminder for each lesson. This is very useful as it give the student an interactive approach to their lessons, and allows them to participate more in their own learning. Furthermore, each new student gets the notes of each class emailed that includes the basics of vocal techniques and topics that are covered in each class.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE OTHER TECHNIQUES USED IN SINGING ?
A.
◦ ADDITIONAL STYLES
◦ HARMONY SINGING
◦ IMPROVISATION
◦ VIBRATO
◦ VOCAL DISTORTION
◦ PERFORMANCE
◦ SIGHT READING
◦ AUDITION PREP
◦ KARAOKE
◦ SINGING AT A WEDDING
◦ RECORDING
◦ SONGWRITING
◦ SINGING & PLAYING
◦ MUSIC THEORY
DIFFICULTY LEARNING TO SING :
Beginners say:
“I CAN’T SING”,
“I’M NOT MUSICAL” OR
“I’VE NEVER TAKEN LESSONS”
A. You can reach the next level by bringing a positive, yet realistic attitude to each lesson. Have an open mind while learning, and spend some time practicing.
It’s not easy but try to let go the cultural unreasonable expectations and learn something you’ve always wanted to learn, with expert guidance from an experienced teacher!
DIFFICULTY LEARNING TO SING ? – FOR PARENTS & KIDS
A. Sometimes lessons for kids can start as a great idea, but turn out to be a challenge in reality, especially when it comes to your child putting in practice time.
Sometimes parents “make” the child continue lessons and practice despite their strong displeasure. And when lessons end, they often stop playing and are left with a negative impression of learning music. Conversely, sometimes parents let the child totally drive the process, and let them stop at the first sign of challenge.
I recommend a middle path.
If you’re thinking about signing your son or daughter up for lessons, let’s work together to create a positive and flexible, yet bigger picture and effort oriented experience for your child. They’ll learn the value and habit of sticking with something meaningful, while having it nourish and excite them along the way!
WHAT INFORMATION DO YOU WANT THE STUDENT TO PROVIDE BEFORE STARTING ?
A. When you contact me, please answer the following questions:
– What is your background in musical training (if any)?
– What is your age at the moment ?
– What voice part do you think you are ?
– What specific vocal problems you think you have and would like to focus on?
– Can you tell me more about your singing experience, and past teachers/lessons?
WHAT IS MY AIM AS AN SINGING INSTRUCTOR / COACH?
A. This channel is for singing geeks and up and coming singers to learn all about how to take their voice from good to great.
Hey, I’m Priyanka and I have the best job in the world. I’m a singing teacher who works with singers (and those too afraid to call themselves singers just yet) online and in person in San Francisco (US).
Most people believe that you should just settle for the voice you’re born with because you can’t learn to make it sound any better. I’m here to convince you otherwise.
HOURS
I teach Monday-Friday in the days and evenings as late as 7pm PST. I do not teach on weekends.
LOCATION
PLEASE NOTE: My studio is available by appointment only.New classes are scheduled based on student feedback.
Please contact me to let me know you’re interested, and I’ll let you know what’s in the works!
HOW TO JOIN MY MAILING LIST? WHAT COMES IN THE INBOX ?
A. Get updates once every few months on classes, events and other cool stuff!
Sign-up here & Grab Your FREE Ebook “109 Tips For A Healthy & Young Voice” by Priyanka Lalwani
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE QUALITIES OF A GOOD SINGING TEACHER?
Some of the Qualities of a Good Singing Teacher include:
• Empathy
• Inspiration
• Encouragement
• Good listener
• Patience
• Sets personal boundaries
• Passionate about teaching and voice
• Client-centered teacher
• Individually tailored instruction and interaction
Note, nowhere on this list is “can explain how the vocal folds function well” or “knows the acoustic science behind how the voice works.”
The truth is, a good teacher knows the instrument of the voice inside and out AND consistently demonstrates the qualities listed above.
The human brain has an amazing capacity to change its form and function in all stages of life. The brain’s ability to change its form and function is called neuroplasticity. What that means for our singing clients is:
• The way they think about their singing can change
• Habits that are hindering their potential can be left behind
• New coordination and habits that enhance their singing and performance can be made
• Their perceptions of themselves as performers, singers, and artists can change
When our clients come to understand and to believe, at a deep level, that things can change for them, and they start experiencing those changes, they initiate a transforming positive feedback cycle.
For clients to risk change, they have to feel safe. Attempting change puts them in a very vulnerable spot. They WILL bobble around some while learning new ways of thinking and doing and being.
It is the singing teacher’s job to create an environment in which the client feels and is safe. That’s where those qualities of being a great singing teacher come into play.
WHY SHOULD CHILDREN LEARN TO SING?
• Singing helps in Brain Building.
• Singing lessons are fun!
• Singing lessons can increase confidence!
• Singing lessons can cause an increase in IQ!
WHY LEARN ONLINE?
Internet voice lessons are just like in-person lessons- but you don’t have to drive! They are very effective and convenient if you do not live in the Bay Area- or even if you live locally but prefer not to drive. What a great stress and time saver! All you need is a computer or mobile device (smart phone, i-pad or i-pod touch) with video capability and wi-fi connection and you are set! A video/audio recording of your lesson is sent to you after the lesson.
• You can even take lessons with a speakerphone if your internet connection is not great. Or, download the Cisco Webex Meetings/Skype app to your phone and have a lesson through 3-G, 4-G or LTE.
WHAT DOES ONLINE LESSONS MEAN? HOW DO THEY WORK?
Online voice lessons are just like in-person lessons- but you don’t have to drive! They are very effective and convenient if you do not live in the Bay Area- or even if you live locally but prefer not to drive. What a great stress and time saver!
It’s been a great way to continue teaching students that have moved out of the Bay Area. And to serve new students that can benefit from my teaching and/or don’t have music teachers in their area that meet their needs.
All you need is a computer or mobile device (smart phone, i-pad or i-pod touch) with video capability and wi-fi connection and you are set! A video/audio recording of your lesson is sent to you after the lesson.
During the music lessons online through Skype/Zoom, the below listed activities will be performed:
• Vocal exercises
• Working on technical elements
• Discussing perfectionism
• Ending hesitation
HOW DO I REGISTER FOR LESSONS WITH PRIYANKA’S SINGING STUDIOS?
To schedule your initial Discovery Session please complete and submit this form. We will contact you within 48 hours to schedule your free Vocal Assessment.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING MY FREE VOCAL ASSESSMENT?
Priyanka will talk to you about your voice and singing history. You will share your goals and desires for developing or enhancing your singing and performance. You and Priyanka will discuss options and determine the best path to reach your goals.
WHAT HOURS AND DAYS OF THE WEEK DO YOU TEACH?
Mondays through Fridays between 9am and 7pm (Pacific Standard Time United States). When you complete your Free Vocal Assessment you will schedule your first series of lessons.
HOW DO DISTANCE OR ONLINE SINGING LESSONS WORK?
Internet lessons work much like in-person lessons. Prior to your first lesson you will receive the access code information. At the scheduled lesson time, you will initiate the call to me.
To receive internet lessons you need a high speed internet connection, a webcam (the one built into your computer will do just fine), and a microphone.
DO YOU TEACH BEGINNERS?
Absolutely! Priyanka works with children as little as 3 years old and teens through older adults, with experience from shower singers to professionals.
WHAT AGES AND LEVELS DO YOU TEACH?
Priyanka has taught students between the age of 3 – 88.They have been from diverse backgrounds eg. curious toddlers, teens and tweens to working professional e.g. doctors, engineers, artists etc.
For our younger students (ages 3-8) we combine having fun with education, teaching them all kinds of musical skills as well as singing. Rhythm instruments, percussion, clapping, moving, and singing fun songs are all part of the fun experience for the little ones!
Each lesson is tailored to help you advance towards your goal and become incrementally better. You don’t need to have any prior knowledge of music to join.All styles of music are welcome.
Goals of past students include wanting to sing karaoke, to sing in a choir, to be cast in a high school show or community theatre, to get a vocal scholarship to a university, to sing on stage with a live band, to make a recording of their songs, and all the way to being a professional in the competitive music industry.
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS FOR REGULAR LESSONS?
Clients progress most quickly when they have weekly lessons and have focused, dedicated daily practice time.
At Priyanka’s Singing Studios you have the options to have:
• Multiple lessons in a week if you want to study intensively for a brief while and then have regular lessons more widely spaced.
• Weekly regular lessons
• Every other week regular lessons
• Occasional lessons
You will receive the best value with regularly scheduled lessons and will improve more quickly.
WHAT ARE YOUR RATES AND FEES?
Please use contact us form to get details about rates and fees.
HOW DO YOU TAKE PAYMENTS?
We will invoice you using PayPal where you may pay with a credit card or with your Paypal account funds. You may also pay with a bank check or cash.
WHAT IS YOUR PAYMENT POLICY?
Payment for individual lessons (packages of 4,8,12 available) must be made in advance.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
If you cancel your lesson at least a full 48 hours prior to the scheduled lesson time and date, every effort will be made to reschedule your lesson within the month. We reserve one day a month for rescheduled lessons.
If you are unable to take your rescheduled lesson at a time Priyanka’s Singing Studio has available, your lesson will be forfeited and you will be charged for it. We promise to work hard to find a time that will work for you.
If you cancel your lesson within 24 hours prior to the scheduled lesson time and date, your lesson will be forfeited and you will be charged for it. It will not be rescheduled.
WHY SHOULD I STUDY WITH PRIYANKA ?
• Most simply put, Priyanka knows how to help you unleash your voice so that your style and performance are no longer limited by your vocal technique or vocal health. If you are a song writer you will find that even your writing might change because you no longer have the internal concept of vocal limitations.
• We are a client-centered studio. We are 100% committed to the artistic process and personal and professional goals of every one of our clients. This includes referring you to any other expert or professional that could best serve your needs.
• Our interest is in what you need and want to learn that you’ve not yet mastered.
• The technique taught is firmly based on the cutting edge discoveries of modern day vocal science and a comprehensive understanding of how humans learn and change.
• You will learn to sing stronger, higher, and with a connected sound throughout your vocal range.
• You will further develop your own unique style. We understand that a strong vocal technique is optimal for all singers, but it must be adapted to suit your individual needs.
• You will discover how to powerfully and intimately share your unique message with your audience through your songs. It is more than excellent vocal technique. It is you sharing of your self with your audience.
• Priyanka’s Singing Studios is deeply connected with the local Teacher Network and Artist Network. If it is your goal to be a professional singer, when you are ready we can directly connect you with top songwriters, producers, talent agents, and recording studios.
WHAT QUALIFIES YOU TO TEACH ME?
I have the best job in the world. I’m a singing teacher who works with singers (and those too afraid to call themselves singers just yet) online and in person in San Francisco (US).
Most people believe that you should just settle for the voice you’re born with because you can’t learn to make it sound any better. I’m here to convince you otherwise.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE ME TO BECOME A GOOD SINGER?
Most clients notice improvement in their singing very quickly. The key is consistent and frequent practice. The technique works quickly but only if you work the technique! Most people get the best results with a minimum of 30 minutes of daily, focused practice along with regular lessons.
WHAT CONNECTIONS DO YOU HAVE TO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY?
Priyanka’s Singing Studios works closely with many producers and publishing companies. We are also connected to the local Teacher Network and Artist Network. When you are ready we can directly connect you with top songwriters, producers, talent agents, managers, and recording studios.
WHAT IF I WANT TO LEARN TO BE A SINGING TEACHER?
Training teachers is one of Priyanka’s specialties as well as a part of her overall mission.Priyanka teaches the Be A Singing Teacher course and Running Your Music Business course at least quarterly. Contact Priyanka directly for details at priyankalalwanimusic(at)gmail(dot)com
Upon completion of the teacher training course you will have the tools and knowledge you need to advance your teaching or to begin teaching with confidence.
Priyanka mentors other teachers from around the world, helping them to discover what it is they need to master to become even better performers, singers, and teachers themselves.
Running Your Music Business Course is very popular amongst students, up and coming artists, music professionals and connoisseurs seeking someone who has been there and done that.