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Singing Popular Music

Jeannie Gagne

You've been studying the greats, working on improving your vocal skills, and building vocal technique. Now it's time to take the next step in your singing career to shine as a vocalist. Singing Popular Music provides you with the essential skills to define your own unique vocal style and sing healthfully. The course begins with devices to support and alter your sound including vowel quality, tone production, and breathing techniques. From there, you will learn how to use techniques like mix voice and belting in contemporary singing styles. Then you'll take a cover song and make it your own. Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to confidently and healthfully sing in your desired vocal style as well as understand how you can alter your singing to match other contemporary styles.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Welcome to Singing Popular Music!
Welcome to the course! Here we will cover all the details about the course and what you'll need to know to get the most out of your experience.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces foundational concepts and practices for refining vocal techniques and developing a unique singing style
Taught by Jeannie Gagne, a seasoned vocal instructor
Suitable for aspiring singers seeking to enhance their vocal capabilities and explore contemporary singing styles
Provides practical guidance on breathing techniques, vocal exercises, and tone production
Focuses on developing mix voice and belting techniques, expanding vocal range and versatility
Encourages learners to apply techniques to a cover song, showcasing their vocal style and interpretation

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Reviews summary

Mastering popular vocal styles healthfully

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive and comprehensive guide to singing popular music, emphasizing both vocal health and stylistic development. Many found the instructor's clear explanations and practical exercises highly effective for improving technique. The course is particularly praised for demystifying concepts like mix voice and safe belting, making powerful singing accessible. While the flexible structure was appreciated, some students noted the absence of personalized feedback as a common challenge in online learning, which requires significant self-discipline to apply the teachings effectively. Overall, it's considered an excellent foundation for developing a unique vocal sound.
Success depends heavily on student's dedication and self-practice.
"This isn't a magic bullet; you really need to put in the daily practice to see results from the techniques taught."
"I found that the more I consistently worked on the exercises, the faster I saw improvement in my voice."
"The course provides the tools, but applying them and internalizing the concepts truly depends on your own effort."
The instructor's passion and expertise made the learning enjoyable.
"The instructor's enthusiasm for singing is infectious and kept me motivated throughout the course."
"I found the instructor to be incredibly knowledgeable and able to explain complex ideas simply."
"Her teaching style was very encouraging, making me feel comfortable trying new things with my voice."
Helps learners discover and refine their individual singing voice.
"I learned how to take a cover song and truly make it my own, which is something I always wanted to do."
"The exercises for finding my tone quality and stylistic choices were surprisingly effective."
"This course encouraged me to experiment and define my artistic voice, not just imitate others."
Provides solid, understandable vocal technique guidance.
"The instructor breaks down complex vocal concepts into easy-to-understand modules, especially the breathing techniques."
"I finally understood mix voice after struggling with it for years; the demonstrations were incredibly helpful."
"The lessons on healthy belting were a game-changer for my vocal stamina and range."
"I appreciated how each lesson built upon the last, making the learning curve smooth and manageable."
Online format restricts individualized vocal assessment.
"While the lessons are great, I really missed having someone listen to my singing and give direct feedback."
"It's hard to tell if I'm doing the exercises correctly without a professional ear guiding me."
"I wish there was an option for one-on-one sessions, as the course relies heavily on self-assessment."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Singing Popular Music with these activities:
Practice vocal exercises
Practice vocal exercises to improve vocal technique and range.
Show steps
  • Warm up your voice with scales and arpeggios.
  • Practice vocal exercises that focus on vowel quality, tone production, and breath control.
Watch video tutorials on vocal techniques
Watch video tutorials to learn from experienced vocalists and improve your singing skills.
Browse courses on Vocal Techniques
Show steps
  • Search for video tutorials on specific vocal techniques, such as mix voice or belting.
  • Take notes on the techniques demonstrated in the tutorials.
  • Practice the techniques in your own singing practice.
Record yourself singing and analyze your performance
Record yourself singing to identify areas for improvement and develop your vocal style.
Show steps
  • Record yourself singing a song that showcases your vocal abilities.
  • Listen to the recording and analyze your performance.
  • Make a list of the techniques you used well and the areas where you could improve.
  • Work on improving your vocal style by practicing the techniques you identified.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a singing group or choir
Join a singing group or choir to learn from others, improve your vocal skills, and develop your musicality.
Browse courses on Singing
Show steps
  • Research singing groups or choirs in your area.
  • Attend rehearsals and performances to get a feel for the group.
  • Audition for the group or choir if necessary.
  • Participate in rehearsals and performances to develop your vocal skills and musicality.
Attend vocal workshops and masterclasses
Attend vocal workshops and masterclasses to learn new techniques and improve your vocal skills.
Browse courses on Vocal Techniques
Show steps
  • Research vocal workshops and masterclasses in your area or online.
  • Register for workshops and masterclasses that are relevant to your vocal goals.
  • Attend the workshops and masterclasses and participate actively.
  • Apply the techniques you learn in your own singing practice.
Contribute to open-source singing projects
Contribute to open-source singing projects to gain experience and improve your vocal skills.
Show steps
  • Search for open-source singing projects on platforms like GitHub.
  • Choose a project that you are interested in and has a skill level that matches your own.
  • Contribute to the project by submitting code, documentation, or other materials.
  • Collaborate with other contributors to improve the project.
Sing for charity events or community organizations
Sing for charity events or community organizations to gain experience and give back to your community.
Browse courses on Singing
Show steps
  • Research charity events or community organizations that are looking for singers.
  • Contact the organizers and offer your services.
  • Prepare a set of songs that are appropriate for the event.
  • Perform at the event and share your music with the audience.
Create a portfolio of your singing performances
Create a portfolio of your singing performances to showcase your progress and share with potential employers.
Show steps
  • Record yourself singing a variety of songs that demonstrate your vocal range and abilities.
  • Edit and master the recordings to create a high-quality portfolio.
  • Share your portfolio with potential employers or use it to promote your singing career.

Career center

Learners who complete Singing Popular Music will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Singer
As a Singer, you need to be able to sing in a variety of styles. This course will teach you the essential skills to define your own unique vocal style and sing healthfully. You will learn how to use techniques like mix voice and belting in contemporary singing styles.
See salaries and explore the career path for Singer
Vocal Coach
As a Vocal Coach, you help singers improve their vocal skills and techniques. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to teach singers how to sing healthfully and in a variety of styles.
See salaries and explore the career path for Vocal Coach
Music Producer
As a Music Producer, you work with musicians to create and produce music. This course will teach you the skills you need to produce high-quality recordings of singers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Producer
Music Director
As a Music Director, you lead and conduct musical ensembles. This course will teach you the skills you need to work with singers and other musicians to create beautiful music.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Director
Teacher
As a Teacher, you work with students to help them learn and grow. This course will provide you with the skills you need to teach students how to sing and perform.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
Music Therapist
As a Music Therapist, you use music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and mental health. This course will teach you the skills you need to work with singers to help them achieve their therapeutic goals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Therapist
Performer
As a Performer, you entertain audiences with your singing. This course will teach you the skills you need to perform confidently and effectively on stage.
See salaries and explore the career path for Performer
Artist
As an Artist, you create and express yourself through your singing. This course will teach you the skills you need to develop your own unique artistic voice.
See salaries and explore the career path for Artist
Musician
As a Musician, you play and perform music. This course will teach you the skills you need to play and sing together with other musicians.
See salaries and explore the career path for Musician
Audio Engineer
As an Audio Engineer, you record, mix, and master audio. This course will teach you the skills you need to work with singers in the recording studio.
See salaries and explore the career path for Audio Engineer
Talent Manager
As a Talent Manager, you represent and manage singers. This course will teach you the skills you need to help singers build their careers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Talent Manager
Songwriter
As a Songwriter, you write and compose songs. This course will teach you the skills you need to write songs that singers can perform.
See salaries and explore the career path for Songwriter
Music Publisher
As a Music Publisher, you represent and manage the rights to songs. This course will teach you the skills you need to work with singers to protect their copyrights.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Publisher
Arts Administrator
As an Arts Administrator, you manage and operate arts organizations. This course will teach you the skills you need to work with singers and other artists to produce and present music.
See salaries and explore the career path for Arts Administrator
Music Educator
As a Music Educator, you teach music to students. This course will provide you with the skills you need to teach students how to sing and perform.
See salaries and explore the career path for Music Educator

Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Singing Popular Music.
Cover image
The Vocal Athlete, Second Edition
Save
Comprehensive guide to healthy singing, covering topics such as vocal anatomy, vocal technique, and vocal health. It valuable resource for singers of all levels who want to improve their vocal performance and avoid injury.
The Vocal Athlete, Second Edition
Paperback
$$$
The Vocal Athlete: Application and Technique for...
Spiral-bound
$$$
Cover image
Securing Baritone, Bass-Baritone, and Bass Voices
Save
Classic guide to singing, covering topics such as vocal technique, vocal interpretation, and vocal pedagogy. It valuable resource for singers of all levels who want to improve their vocal performance and artistic expression.
Securing Baritone, Bass-Baritone, and Bass Voices
Paperback
Check
Securing Baritone, Bass-Baritone, and Bass Voices
Kindle Edition
Check
Complete Vocal Technique
Save
Comprehensive guide to vocal technique, covering topics such as vocal anatomy, vocal exercises, and vocal pedagogy. It valuable resource for singers of all levels who want to improve their vocal technique and vocal range.
Cathrine Sadolin: Complete Vocal Technique (German)
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Disclosure of the Heart
Save
Comprehensive guide to breathing, covering topics such as breathing anatomy, breathing exercises, and breathing techniques. It valuable resource for singers of all levels who want to improve their breathing and vocal performance.
Disclosure of the Heart (The Heart Series Book 2)
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
A Theology of Paul the Apostle, Part One
Save
Comprehensive guide to contemporary singing, covering topics such as vocal technique, vocal style, and vocal performance. It valuable resource for singers who want to learn how to sing contemporary music effectively.
A Theology of Paul the Apostle, Part One: Paul’s...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Intervention before Interventionism
Save
Comprehensive guide to vocal performance, covering topics such as stage presence, vocal interpretation, and vocal communication. It valuable resource for singers of all levels who want to improve their vocal performance and connect with their audience.
Intervention before Interventionism: A Global...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
The Meaning of Mariah Carey
Save
Comprehensive guide to vocal exercises, covering topics such as vocal warm-ups, vocal cool-downs, and vocal exercises for specific vocal styles. It valuable resource for singers of all levels who want to improve their vocal range and vocal technique.
The Meaning of Mariah Carey
Hardcover
$
(Deutsch) Mariah – Ganz ich selbst: Die Geschichte meines...
Hardcover
$$
The Meaning of Mariah Carey
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Training Soprano Voices
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to vocal health and performance, with a focus on the physical and mental aspects of singing. It covers the anatomy and physiology of the vocal tract, the different vocal techniques used in popular music, and the importance of vocal rest and recovery.
Training Soprano Voices
Hardcover
$$$
Training Soprano Voices
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Singing Schumann
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to the art of singing, with a focus on developing vocal technique, musicianship, and performance skills. It covers the different vocal techniques used in popular music, the importance of vocal health, and the psychology of singing.
Singing Schumann: An Interpretive Guide for...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Singing For Dummies
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to singing, with a focus on the basics of vocal technique. It covers the different vocal techniques used in popular music, the importance of vocal health, and the psychology of singing.
Singing For Dummies
Paperback
$$
Singing For Dummies
Paperback
$$
Singing Exercises For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$$
Singing for Dummies
Paperback
$$
Singing Exercises For Dummies (For Dummies...
Unknown Binding
$$
Cover image
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Theory
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to singing, with a focus on the basics of vocal technique. It covers the different vocal techniques used in popular music, the importance of vocal health, and the psychology of singing.
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Theory, 2nd...
Paperback
$$
The Complete Idiot's Mini Guide to Music Theory...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The Zen of Singing
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to singing in English for non-native speakers. It covers the different vocal techniques used in popular music, the importance of vocal health, and the psychology of singing.
The Zen of Singing
Paperback
Check
The Zen of Singing
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Vocal Health for Singers
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to vocal health for singers. It covers the different vocal techniques used in popular music, the importance of vocal health, and the psychology of singing.
Vocal Health for Singers : A LEADING VOICE DOCTOR...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Securing Baritone, Bass-Baritone, and Bass Voices
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to the art of singing, with a focus on developing vocal technique, musicianship, and performance skills. It covers the different vocal techniques used in popular music, the importance of vocal health, and the psychology of singing.
Securing Baritone, Bass-Baritone, and Bass Voices
Paperback
Check
Securing Baritone, Bass-Baritone, and Bass Voices
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
What Every Singer Needs to Know About the Body,...
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to the art of singing, with a focus on developing vocal technique, musicianship, and performance skills. It covers the different vocal techniques used in popular music, the importance of vocal health, and the psychology of singing.
What Every Singer Needs to Know About the Body,...
Paperback
$$$

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Effort
4 weeks of study/3-5 hours per week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Berklee
Instructor
Jeannie Gagne
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called The Singer Songwriter. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Guitar for Beginners
  2. Singing Popular Music (viewing)
  3. Introduction to Ableton Live
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces foundational concepts and practices for refining vocal techniques and developing a unique singing style
Taught by Jeannie Gagne, a seasoned vocal instructor
Suitable for aspiring singers seeking to enhance their vocal capabilities and explore contemporary singing styles
Provides practical guidance on breathing techniques, vocal exercises, and tone production
Focuses on developing mix voice and belting techniques, expanding vocal range and versatility
Encourages learners to apply techniques to a cover song, showcasing their vocal style and interpretation
Share this
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