It's OK not to like Hamilton! and other musical faux-pas

Some of my most interesting conversations about music happen OUTSIDE of voice lessons.  Just a few days ago, I went to a doctor for a routine check-up and we started a discussion about musicals.  He admitted he didn't really get the 'hype' surrounding Hamilton.  I told him that was completely ok!  There are plenty of musicals out there for a variety of tastes and I gave him some other options to look at since he enjoyed good singing but didn't care for the hip-hop in Hamilton.

Folks, there is a LOT of music out there and it is completely okay to not like Hamilton.  Or Sondheim musicals (Sondheim is considered the greatest musical composer of the 20th century).  Or musicals with lots of dancing.  If you like good singing, I can find you a musical you will enjoy as the genre of musical theater encompasses a wide range of styles.  The same principle applies to classical music.  Folks, it's okay to not like Mozart.  He might have been a genius, but his style of composition was suited for his time and may not be your cup of tea.  But I guarantee you I can find classical music that appeals to all my students because there are SO MANY different composers with widely different styles.

Another faux-pas that is no big deal - not being able to read music.  That is OKAY!  First, reading music is a skill just like anything else in life, and you can learn the basics quite quickly.  But not being able to read music does not, I repeat, DOES NOT, make you a bad musician or unable to take lessons.  Some of the best singers and students I've worked with had little to no ability to read music.  Does the ability to read music make your life a lot easier as a musician. No doubt!  But please don't let the skill of reading music prevent you from enjoying music or starting voice lessons.