In the world of music, many singers find themselves stuck in a cycle of stagnation, unable to progress despite years of lessons. It’s a frustrating reality, but one I’ve observed countless times over my career. There are many reasons why singers may not improve, but my strong belief is that a scales-only approach is simply not enough. While scales are essential in developing a singer’s technique, they only address the outer aspects of singing—the mechanics and the technicalities.
The Limitations of a Scales-Only Approach
Scales are undoubtedly a wonderful tool for building foundational skills like pitch, range, and control. However, relying solely on scales works primarily on the outer singer—on technique and precision. It does not delve into the deeper aspects of a singer’s true potential. There is so much more to singing than just hitting the right notes or extending vocal range. The greatest artists are those who go beyond the surface, who reach into their very souls to find their true, unique voices. This is where the concept of “the inner singer,” or what I call “the art of the heart,” comes into play.
Unlocking the Inner Singer: The Art of the Heart
The “art of the heart” is about unlocking and releasing the full potential of a singer. It’s about discovering and cultivating a singer’s brand and trademarks—the unique qualities that make them stand out. It’s about helping singers break free from the confines of conventional methods and move toward a more profound, authentic expression of their artistry.
Sometimes, focusing only on singing higher, lower, or louder can simply be a journey toward becoming generic—”like every other singer.” While these elements are important, they are only a small part of the equation. The true path to becoming a contemporary artist involves discovering one’s unique sound and embracing individuality. That’s where the magic happens, and that’s what has been at the heart of my coaching philosophy for over four decades.
Choosing the Right Path: Beyond Convenience to Growth
Another critical factor in a singer’s development is choosing the right coach. I often find that students or their parents are not willing to go the extra mile to find the best coach suited to their needs. Instead, they choose a coach because their peers go there or because it is convenient or local. This decision, driven by convenience rather than growth, is one of the most common reasons singers experience stagnation.
To truly develop, one must be willing to seek out and invest in the best possible guidance. This means going beyond what is comfortable or familiar and being open to finding a coach who understands the deeper dimensions of artistry—someone who can guide the singer in finding their unique voice and expression.
The Difference Between Good and Great: Moving Audiences and Breaking Boundaries
The greatest singers are not just those who can sing a song perfectly. They are the ones who move and excite audiences, who have the power to stop a room, to command attention, and to produce sounds that others cannot. They are the ones who are constantly pushing boundaries, not just with their vocal range but with their creativity, their passion, and their ability to connect deeply with their audience.
This is the essence of “the art of the heart.” It is about going beyond the surface, beyond the technical, to reach a place of true artistic expression. It is about helping singers break free from their limitations and allowing them to discover and develop their unique artistic identity.
Breaking Free from Stagnation: The Journey to Greatness
The journey from stagnation to greatness requires more than just practice and repetition; it requires a mindset shift. It requires a commitment to exploring the depths of one’s artistry and a willingness to go beyond the norm. This is the work I have dedicated my life to, helping singers not just become technically proficient but to become artists in the truest sense of the word.
If you find yourself or someone you know feeling stuck, remember that the journey to becoming a great singer is not just about scales or vocal exercises. It’s about finding the right guidance, unlocking your inner singer, and embracing the “art of the heart.”
In this way, you’ll not just be another singer but a unique voice that resonates, inspires, and moves the world.