So in this video, I address the question I get all the time. Watch it first before you read further.
So now that you have watched it, I want to ask you: Why is it that people ask the question in the first place? Why do so many have these strange beliefs about singing? Why is it that people seriously think that there is any difference between learning to sing and learning any other activity?
Can some people be more talented than others at, let's say playing the piano? Of course. However, does that person with the “super talent” suddenly become super skilled at playing the piano without ever playing the piano?
Do you become a great writer without ever writing?
Yes, of course we are different. I am not denying that. But we are really fooling ourselves if we think we can measure “talent”, because what we are really measuring is the skill the person has at any given moment.
See, if you challenge me to do something that I’ve never done before, and then I surprise you by being able to do it well quickly, you are going to call me naturally talented.
But what you may not realize is that there is a strategy and a developed skill to be able to learn anything effectively. Whether I have done something before or not is really irrelevant.
Most people who believe they "can't do something" have simply been engaged in ineffective strategies or haven't been engaged in learning at all. This applies to the beginner who thinks he can't sing, as well as the professional who believes a certain note is the max of his range, or the pro who habitually makes certain gestures or faces in order to sing a specific note. You've heard me say it many times before, but singing scales is, as an example, exceptionally ineffective. (If you haven't done the Sing With Freedom program, I hope you have at least watch the free video were I went through this.)
So the real questions are:
1) How good can we become at singing (or anything else)? The good news is that we have absolutely no idea. Don't you love that? That uncertainty is the beauty of life in my opinion. Then how effectively we learn is about developing the strategy.
2) When, and how much, can you enjoy it? The good news is that you can enjoy it right away. Enjoyment comes from your level of engagement in the here and now – in being involved in the process.
And the real beauty is that learning effectively also comes out of that deep level of engagement - awareness, curiosity, exploration, discovery. Yes learning and enjoyment do go hand in hand. Isn't that fun?
I hope for you who have done, or are working on the Sing With Freedom/The Singing Zone program, that this is indeed what you are experiencing.
Have fun!
Anyone who has vocal cords has the ability to sing, it doesn’t matter if you have the greatest voice in the world or don’t sound so great. What matters is being able to express yourself and sing from your heart. It’s good for the soul.
Your ears are your guidance. Without them you are nowhere. Listen to yourself sing and you’ll know whether you are doing well or not. Listen critically and correct yourself.
That’s all for now: lesson 1.
Per and Team,
Excellent advice and tips that really work! I enjoy this new singing experience; it allows you to know what it’s like to truly feel free and confident. Hard work really pays off; practice, practice and practice.
Cathy
Thank you for these videos, it is such a nice surprise to find that something that is given free on the internet actually has value.
Thank you – I really need to practice consistently though to get the results
i am sorry but i must tell you that i used to sing quite a lot then stoped as i bought a farm and did lots of other things in order to earn a living,and i was a smoker for about 50 years now i want to sing again,but i am strugling to get my breath,i am now 68 years old i get regular exersize take my dog out everyday rain or shine. but somtime i get out of breath i have a gadget called a power breath i use it everyday so am i going to be able to sing again?and that is why i didn’t spend any cash the last time you asked me + i could not afford the price.yours truly brian jeffs.
I totally agree with your assessment Per that we can learn a multitude of skills if we have a go.
I recently turned 70. I started singing about 8 years ago with the encouragement of an Irish friend and had two and a half years of private lessons before enrolling in “The Sing With Freedom” course in October, 2011 (and the fabulous
“Master Class” series) .
I believe that the development of my singing voice is testament to your theory and your excellent coaching methods.
Great and important advice which everyone should know and as early in life as possible. The learning skill is what we all should have. And I guess it helps if one is naturally curious or enthusiastic and thus the learning becomes enjoyable no matter at what stage of competency he is at.
A scripture verse says “make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” This principle also applies to any singing we may do. Others may think our singing is noise, but if it is joyful, it enriches our souls.
I live in Northern Ontaro and do not have the best internet connection. I watched the video above presented which had several half minute pauses. Can your program be purchased on a CD or DVD?
I think it’s great and interesting how drastic of a positive change the vocals go through immediately after warming up. I’ve been using your program and I feel and hear myself getting more skillful at singing than before. Thank you so much.
Can ANYONE learn to sing?
Have you ever met a baby that couldn’t cry?
Ever met a dog that couldn’t bark?
Met a lion that could’t roar?
Met a hum-an that couldn’t hum?
Is not speaking already a vocal engagement?
Are not laughing and crying the first signs of vocal inclusion into the human tribe?
Is not emotion the driving force of belonging?
Thanks Per for your programmes. I find them fascinating and love to watch them, but, even with the volume at full register I can hardly hear them, which is a great pity. I would love to follow your course/s.
My mom and hers both had gorgeous voices but criticised mine. My daughter has a beautiful voice too and was chosen as lead singer at the age of six.Only one singing teacher ever told me I had a good voice. I never sing in my husband’s presence because he is very critical. I guess this has given me a complex?
All the best and good luck from
Pat.