By becoming a holistic singing teacher, you’ll be better equipped to identify the physical, mental and technical causes of vocal problems.

Top vocal coach Line Hilton is a big believer in taking a holistic approach in the singing studio.

A former nurse with a Masters in Performing Arts Medicine, Line has learned over the years that the causes of singing-related issues can be complex.

“It’s important to look at the whole singer, including their lifestyle and environment as well as their physical health and mental well-being,” says Line on the Singing Teachers Talk podcast.

“I’ve come across so many singers who are struggling for reasons that have nothing to do with vocal technique.

“That’s why it’s crucial to look at the big picture.”

Are you interested in becoming a more holistic singing teacher? Here are some tips from Line to get you started.

1 Take a thorough audit

Take a thorough patient history encompassing medical issues, medications, nutrition, sleep patterns, lifestyle, habits and occupation.

2 Explain your approach

Someone who comes to you for a straightforward singing lesson may not understand why you’re talking about other things like health, sleep patterns or nutrition.

Explain your reasons for taking a broad overview.

3 Put together a referral list

Collate a list of performing arts medicine professionals you can recommend to students. (That way, students can see clinicians or therapists that better understand their needs.)

This list should include an ENT laryngologist, speech therapist, physiotherapist (trained in vocal manual therapy), massage therapist (with specific vocal massage training), nutritionist and psychologist.

Other professionals to keep in your little black book include a gastroenterologist, rheumatologist, neurologist, orthopaedic consultant, osteopath and chiropractor.

4 Encourage students to advocate for themselves

If a student goes to see a medical professional, they need to be clear about what they do in terms of performing.

For instance, if a singer goes to an ENT surgeon who doesn’t have a laryngology background, it’s essential to explain how they use their voice and body, and that they need to be able to sing through their range and sustain long notes.

5 Don’t underestimate the power of the mind

Often, a singer will have a perfectly good voice and vocal technique. What stops them from reaching their potential is what’s going on in their mind.

6 Be an active listener

Don’t just ask someone how they are; listen to their answer and watch their body language.

If you feel like you’re not getting the complete picture, say: “I’m here if you want to talk. Obviously, I’m not a therapist or doctor, but maybe I can give you some advice or support you in other ways.”

7 Be flexible

Be prepared to modify your plans if the student is feeling below par. Accept that you won’t get through as much as you expected in the lesson – and that’s ok. If a student doesn’t feel like singing, you could work on rhythm, breathing or sight reading.

Learn more

• Listen to this episode of the podcast to hear Line discuss performing arts medicine.
  
  
• Tune into this past discussion with Stephen King about the bio-psycho-social model.

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