Beyond the Lesson: The Power of Mentorship in the Voice Studio

Voice lessons are about so much more than technique. Over time, many student-teacher relationships evolve into something deeper: mentorship. And that shift — from instructor to mentor — can be life-changing for a young singer.

Here’s why mentorship in the voice studio matters more than you might think:

1. Fresh Insight Beyond the Family Bubble

Family is wonderful, but let’s be honest — parents often see their kids through rose-colored glasses. They love and support their children fiercely, but that can also make it hard to offer objective feedback. A mentor provides a valuable outside perspective — someone who sees you clearly, challenges you honestly, and has the musical expertise to help you grow in ways your family might not be equipped for.

2. Direction and Goal-Setting

Long-term mentors don’t just teach you to sing; they help you understand who you are as an artist. They know your strengths, recognize your growth, and help you set meaningful goals. They also offer guidance on how to achieve those goals — often suggesting new ways to think about technique, performance, or career paths.

3. Stellar College Recommendations

When the time comes to apply for college or conservatory, a mentor can be your biggest advocate. They’ve seen your artistic journey up close and can speak not only to your vocal skills, but also to your work ethic, creativity, and character — all the things admissions teams want to know but can’t see on a transcript.

4. Life Lessons That Go Beyond Music

Mentors don’t just teach you to sing — they teach you how to be.Professionalism, resiliency, communication — all of these grow from a healthy mentorship relationship. You won’t always agree with your mentor, and that’s a good thing. Learning to navigate disagreement, stay open, and grow through hard conversations is a powerful life skill that will serve you far beyond the studio.

5. Lifelong Support

The most beautiful part of mentorship? It doesn’t have to end when the lessons do.Years later, I still hear from former students — sharing life updates, asking for feedback on auditions, or just checking in. In a competitive, often isolating industry, it means everything to have someone who knows your history and believes in your future.

Final Thought: If you’re a student, seek out those deeper connections with your teachers — the ones who invest in you not just as a voice, but as a person. And if you’re a teacher, know that your impact might stretch far beyond the lesson — possibly into the life of someone for years to come.

A Special Thanks: I want to dedicate this post to the mentors who shaped me, both inside and outside the world of music. Your guidance, encouragement, and example have made all the difference in my life and career.

A special shoutout to JT Turner, Sandi Nason, Brian O'Cock, John Reddy, and Trish Ray — thank you for believing in me, challenging me, and showing me what true mentorship looks like. I’m forever grateful.