12 Hot Topics of this year

WHY IS IT AN AMAZING TIME TO BE A SINGING TEACHER?

WHAT IS ON THE HORIZON IN TEACHING STYLES?

HOW TO STAY AT THE FOREFRONT OF THIS CURVE

There has never been a more exciting time to be a self-employed singing teacher and our role is evolving for the aspiring singers who will look to us to champion them.

1. Increasing Demand for Flexible, Personalized Learning:

The education system is evolving to offer more flexible and personalized learning experiences. As teachers we are increasingly looking for ways to adapt to this shift. Running CPD courses help us control the facilitation process, while maintaining brand identity, and important core values.
Flexible and personalised learning models have become more prominent since the pandemic, making self-directed, in-house training even more appealing and relevant.
Many of us are moving away from rigid systems and outdated evaluation models. We prefer opportunities that allow us, and our students to grow on our own terms.

2. Growth in Creative and Arts-Based Learning:

In arts education, there’s been a growing emphasis on creativity, personalization, and real-world applicability. Singing teachers and performing arts educators in particular often seek out non-traditional routes for professional development. A program tailored to our specific needs, without an overly formal or bureaucratic structure, is what many of us crave.

3. Rise of Micro-Credentials and Alternative Certifications:

Creative teachers and educators are exploring alternative qualifications like micro-credentials, which provide targeted skills and knowledge without the need for traditional degree programs or certifications. Niche training as an option for singing teachers will only become more popular over the coming years. Having a niche as a singing teacher can be an incredible asset and not something to overlook. Celebrate your unique strengths.

4. Entrepreneurial Drive Among Educators:

We are not afraid to build our brand, and offer unique services. We are able to add value to our business by creating a professional edge without
having to rely on external institutions or moderators. and we are becoming excellent at running our own businesses and knowing how to serve our students.

5. Games will feature in Education and self development:

With research suggesting that game-based learning fosters critical thinking, imagination and motivation, here’s a growing acceptance and integration of putting the fun back in to education! This makes it appealing for teachers to facilitate in-house training. CPD courses can leverage this, with accessible and interactive resources, fun projects, quizzes and assessments.

6. Strength in the ‘solopreneur’:

Rather than having to wait months for decisions and to bring old systems up-to-date, one of the best things about being a solopreneur in this climate is the flexibility it brings. If we want to change and adapt and move with the times…. we can! Pretty instantly, which is super cool!

7. Personalization and Individual Growth:

With an empathetic vocal coach, students receive personalized instruction tailored to their unique voice, style, and needs. Unlike standardized exams, which focus on a one-size-fits-all assessment, this approach allows students to work on areas that matter most to them and progress at their own pace. We are seeing more and more, the benefits of this for a student’s skillset, confidence and motivation.
Singing is an inherently personal skill, and working closely with a coach allows students to develop their strengths while addressing individual challenges, such as range, pitch, or stylistic preferences.

8. Building Emphasis on Long-Term Mastery:

Formal exams often focus on short-term results, encouraging students to prepare for specific tasks or skills rather than fostering long-term mastery. In contrast, holistic learning encourages ongoing development and a deeper understanding of vocal technique.
This method can lead to greater musical creativity and adaptability, as students are not confined to rigid exam structures but are free to explore their voice and experiment with different styles, genres, and techniques under the guidance of a supportive coach.

9. Reduced Pressure and Anxiety:

The pressure of formal exams can create anxiety and hinder performance, especially in arts-based fields where creativity and emotional expression are essential. Learning in a more organic way with a vocal coach can create a safer and more nurturing environment, allowing students to focus on their artistry without fear of failure.
Students who learn in this less stressful environment are often more open to feedback, more willing to take risks, and more resilient in the face of challenges.

10. Holistic Development Beyond The Classroom

Holistic learning addresses not just technical skills (like pitch and tone) but also aspects like emotional expression, stage presence, and performance confidence. A vocal coach can incorporate these elements into lessons, making the learning experience something that offers life long transformation.
As coaches, we are providing more and more guidance on vocal health, mind-set, physical demands, and mental aspects of performance, which are are crucial for long-term success as a singer.

11. Learning Through Real-World Application:

One of the most exciting evolutions in teaching, is that by offering organic, student-led learning, we are facilitating real-world application of skills, such as performing in front of an audience or preparing for specific types of performances. Students can learn by doing, whether through studio recording sessions, live gigs, or group performances, rather than just preparing for exams. Now is the time for singers to hear the cheer of a crowd, and feel the adrenaline of a jam session, and confidently collaborate on exciting musical projects.
This type of learning can also be highly adaptive—a vocal coach can tailor lessons to help students prepare for upcoming auditions, specific roles, or professional opportunities. We are not separate from a student’s real world experience. We are facilitating and supporting students to go out and celebrate their music.

12. Encourages Self-Reflection and Self-Directed Learning:

Holistic education promotes self-awareness and reflection. Students working with a coach are encouraged to think about their own progress, set personal goals, and take responsibility for their learning.
Working closely with a vocal coach fosters a more collaborative relationship rather than the hierarchical nature of teacher-student dynamics in formal exams. This creates a sense of partnership where the coach becomes a mentor, guiding students through their vocal journey.
The collaborative nature of encouraging open communication, fostering growth and development in a constructive and positive way is showing to be hugely impactful for a learner.

It is a fantastic and exciting time to be a singing teacher, providing life transforming opportunities to our incredible students! Our focus at the Singers Club is to provide inspiration, support and training to passionate singing teachers and music leaders. Write to [email protected] if you would like to work with our CPD courses.