Skype Voice Lessons

What Are Skype Voice Lessons Like?

Here are what a couple of current SFYS clients have to say...

Client Mel Finefrock

Mel-FinefrockIn this day and age, we're increasingly able to do a variety of things online. Long-distance correspondence, whether with family, friends, significant others, or for business, is becoming more widely recognized and accepted, even celebrated. So although the thought of working with a voice teacher via Skype was new to me, it was only a little new. I've known my long-distance best friend Caitlin for ten years, so I've already made myself comfortable with a very words-centered relationship.

Even though Kimberly and I can't be together in person, and even though I'm blind and can't see her onscreen, we still get a lot done. If anything, we have to communicate even more effectively when she's teaching me a new warm-up, breathing technique, or posture, in order to compensate for the fact that she can't show me hand over hand. Together we come up with a lot of analogies that we can both understand and that might be applicable to others in future.

We bond by sharing words and thoughts and feelings, and when I work with her, I feel like I'm spending time with a friend. If you feel concerned about working online with a music teacher, I encourage you to give it a try. Even if the instructor isn't nearby--if you feel that undeniable connection with her/him, then that's the person you're meant to work with.

Client Ivan Durst

IvanDurst

I've been taking Skype lessons from Kimberly, and she is phenomenal. The idea of doing video chat lessons seemed strange to me, but she had such good reviews, I figured it was worth a shot. I'm glad I did - she definitely lives up to the hype, and we're able to hear each other clearly, almost as if we're in the same room (technology is amazing).

Kimberly is fantastic at adapting to your skill level and tempo, which is something that's quite important to me... I've had some less-than-stellar experiences with teachers in the past that took a one-size-fits-all approach to teaching music. Homie don't play that. I think music is something that's very personal, and it takes a strong teacher to stay focused on the individual's needs and not fall into autopilot. Kimberly is one of the rare few; she really cares about your improvement.

She adds an element of depth and spirit to each class, which she begins with an (optional) guided meditation to aid connection and presence. She also keeps it fun and light, and is great at helping you comfortably work through stage fright issues. Before the first class was over I had many of my misconceptions about the voice cleared up, a handful of quick remedies that instantly improved some of my singing and breath issues, and some great exercises to improve my strength, range, and confidence. I "walk" out of each class excited to practice, and I notice big improvements on the weekly. ~Ivan Durst

Kimberly Skype Lesson PicAnd now, Skype voice lessons in my own words...!

If I do say so ~ and I do ~ Skype voice lessons are awesome! We're using technology to our advantage, and totally rocking it.

'Tis the wave of the future, technology is truly amazing, and I can't wait until I'm teaching via Hologram! Woohoo!

Positive Aspects of Skype Voice Lessons:

• We can work together no matter where in the world you are! Fabulous!
 
• You don't have to leave the comfort of your own home. 'Nough said.

• The sound and picture on Skype has gotten SO much better! As I'm teaching, I keep getting so involved in what we're doing that I forget we're not actually in the same room.

Logistics to Consider When Taking Voice Lessons Online

• We definitely need to make sure we have the technology ironed out before we meet. That's why I do a consultation first. We'll make sure we can see and hear one another well, and that you feel comfortable with the experience.

Skype requires that we speak more mindfully, and not talk over one another. In my book, slowing down and being more  polite are great things!

Skype encourages faster ear training. This means that for those who are struggling with matching pitch, you'll actually be pushed to improve more quickly. It's mind-over-matter magic, and I've been delighted to watch it in action.

• Because you see both of us on your screen, you can more easily mirror my mouth shape while singing. This is very helpful, and especially helps with learning by imitation, without the discomfort of us feeling like we're staring right at one another.

• It's pretty fascinating to discover that I've been teaching so long that I can gather so much about a person's sound just by the expression on their face and the posture of their body. In those rare moments where the sound breaks for a second, I'm usually pretty clear about what's going on. And if worse comes to worse, I'll ask you to repeat a phrase or start from the top. Repetition is what it's all about in singing, so that ain't no big thang. It's actually a good thang.

• There have been a couple sessions (honestly, only a couple in my entire Skype history), where our connection just wasn't happening. The Skype gods forsook us :( In these rare events, we will just be gracious, smile, and reschedule. Cause that's how we roll.

Voice Lessons Online: To Skype Or Not To Skype?

Skype lessons aren't for everyone, but they are for many!

If you're interested in learning more about Skype sessions with me, I'm going to have a video up about it soon. I'm on it! So you're welcome to check back, join the mailing list for updates, or contact me to set up your complimentary Skype consultation. Let's Connect