Dr. Thomas King

Rules for Voice

Thoughts of Jan DeGaetani, performer and voice professor, Eastman School of Music

Basic Requirement to to be a Good Student of Singing (8 things)

Patience.

The formulation of a meaningful personal vocabulary to describe sound, sensation and posture.

Disciplined daily work habits (To learn music AND train muscles).

Good health, properly maintained.

A positive attitude toward the possibility of change.

Common sense: The courage to question and test teachers and information.

Detailed, constant work on languages.

Imagination (to hear BEYOND your present self)

Basic Requirement to to be a Good Teacher of Singing (8 things)

Patience.

A firm belief that you know enough never to harm anyone.

Imagination (to hear potential).

Knowledge of technique, repertoire, languages and styles.

To admit when you do NOT know something.

To remember the age and probable experiences of each student, and actively to seek his/her unique qualities.

To be demanding and at the same time allow for challenge from the student.

To foster independence.