How to Prepare for a Vocal Coaching Session (and Get the Most Out of It)

Whether you’re stepping into your first vocal coaching session or you’ve worked with teachers for years, how you prepare for your lesson directly impacts how much progress you’ll make. Great vocal coaching isn’t just about having a brilliant teacher—it’s about showing up ready to work.

Here’s how to walk in like a pro, maximize your growth, and walk out one step closer to your singing goals.

Define Your Goals Before the Session

Ask yourself:

• Are you preparing for an audition?

• Trying to nail a high belt?

• Working on consistency or confidence?

• Hoping to develop your mix or your stylistic choices?

Even if you’re not totally sure, showing up with a goal gives your coach a place to start. Write down 1–3 clear objectives so you can track progress over time.

Choose Repertoire Wisely

Bring a song (or two) that:

• Suits your voice and current ability

• Excites or challenges you

• Aligns with your current goals (range, storytelling, technique, etc.)

Pro tip: Bring a clean, double-sided printed copy of your sheet music, marked with cuts or breaths if needed. If coaching remotely, email the sheet music and track(s) in advance.

Warm Up Beforehand

Think of your lesson like a workout with a personal trainer. Would you show up cold and expect to PR your deadlift?

Spend 10–15 minutes warming up your voice before the session:

• Gentle lip trills or hums

• Sirens to connect head and chest registers

• Light vocalises to ease into range

This helps you start strong and saves precious session time.

Record the Session

Most coaches will encourage this. Recordings let you:

• Review corrections and exercises

• Practice along with your coach’s demos

• Track your progress over time

If you’re in person, use a phone or digital recorder. If online, ask if the platform (Zoom, etc.) allows easy session recordings.

Be Coachable: Leave Ego at the Door

You’re not there to impress your coach—you’re there to get better.

• Ask questions.

• Be willing to try things that feel weird.

• Embrace feedback without taking it personally.

Trust that a good coach sees your potential, not just your current limitations.

Take Notes (and Follow Up)

Don’t rely on memory. Take quick notes during or immediately after the session:

• Exercises you were given

• Corrections to technique

• Repertoire suggestions

• Next goals

This makes your practice smarter, and your next session even more productive.

Practice in Between

This is where real growth happens. Your coach is a guide—but you’re the one climbing the mountain.

Set a practice schedule (even 15 minutes a day) and revisit:

• The warm-ups and exercises assigned

• Specific technical challenges

• Song interpretation and breath mapping

Consistent, mindful practice is more effective than cramming the night before.

Communicate with Your Coach

Let your coach know if:

• You’re feeling vocal fatigue or pain

• You have a big performance coming up

• Your goals are shifting

Coaching is a collaboration. The more they know, the more they can help you succeed.

Trust the Process

Vocal growth doesn’t happen overnight. It comes in waves—sometimes frustrating, sometimes exhilarating.

The best singers are the ones who keep showing up, stay curious, and put in the work.

Final Thoughts

Great coaching can unlock new parts of your voice, your artistry, and your confidence—but only if you come prepared. Treat each session like an investment in your future as a performer.

Looking for world-class vocal coaching in Southern California or online? Book a free consultation with [Your Name]—with 25 years of experience and students on Broadway, you’ll get nurturing guidance, bold feedback, and results-driven growth.

👉 Click here to schedule your free session.