Students Selecting their own Music

Most of the time, I pick a student's music by judging their experience, technical needs, and career goals (auditions, college etc...).  However, I want to STRONGLY encourage my own students to feel free to bring their own music, or even say to me - "Mr. Smith, I just don't LIKE this piece..."

First, I always try to pick songs that the student likes, simply because it is very difficult to get excited about practicing if you dislike your song!  I have hundreds of songs for each voice type, and as I tell my students, I guarantee I will find something for you.  It may take me some research, but that's why I went to school for my music degrees!  I am never offended or hurt if I student would like a different piece.

Second, a voice lesson is not a traditional class setting.  In a typical class, the teacher sets the curriculum.  In a voice lesson, teachers LOVE for their students to get excited about a certain piece of music and want to work on it during lessons.  Voice lessons can and must be tailored to each student's technical needs, musical preferences, and goals.  Nothing makes me happier than to see my students take ownership of their lessons and musical education.

DWS