Currently, I have not been trained formally in singing but soon once my mother gets income support I’m entitled for free lessons. At age fifteen, I have a range like this:



I’ve got myself a nicely transposed version of Green Finch and Linnet Bird (from Db to Bb Major) but it turns out I have a few problems with it. The lowest note which is f, I cannot hit at all! I used to think I was a budding contralto. Never mind that c I can’t produce on the word ‘stars’.

Below is a (bad) recording of me singing the transposed version of Green Finch and Linnet Bird. There are errors on pitch and lyrics (oops) and the missing trill. But it was only the second attempt of singing the transposed version (my brother is threatening to hit me if I sing again ). I don't why I'm singing a grade 8 song but I can't think of any easy songs in my range.

Green Finch and Linnet Bird


- What voice classification am I? (I have no clue – I have contralto’s range but soprano’s tone )
- With singing lessons could I extend my range significantly?
- Is it worth getting singing lessons (or is my voice too far gone )?
- Any tips before I get lessons and advice on singing teachers?

A young singer with the forum name mysticmadness, I think, posted something very similar a few months ago.
Singing lessons will help you to get some basics in place. They are worthwhile and some decent lessons will set you on the right path towards singing correctly. You make a good sound but there are some basics to put in place. Grade eight songs aren't for you yet. If you cannot afford lessons perhaps joining a good choir might be an option.

It's always worth having lessons! I have sung for over 40 years, and done voice coaching, but still learn from people who know more than I do, and whose ability and opinions I respect. Joining a choir is worthwhile, and some church choirs undertake formal training under the Voice for Life scheme.

Keep reading this forum for hints and tips.

Of course it's worthwhile having lessons!

A decent singing teacher can hear you, and respond to your voice in his/her teaching, and bring out the best from it, as well as teaching you interpretation skills and 'safe' methods of vocal production.

Yes, vocal lessons with a good teacher are most definitely worth it. You'll find that your technique will improve and things will get easier on your voice, that you'll be able to count on your voice every day - it'll be better, much more regular and you may well increase your range. As has also been said, you'll also learn interpretation skills, stage presence etc. All very worthwhile for a young singer, not to mention the singing teacher's contacts which can open many doors for you.

Why not book a few trial lessons with different teachers and see who you like best?