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Ashlee Varner
Are you looking to earn money on your singing ability? Have you been wondering how to lead a band, secure a gig, or identify the skills you need to stand out onstage? Becoming a professional singer today requires a variety of skills: from basic musicianship skills, arranging songs to best fit your style, recording demos, and even knowing how to manage your finances and book gigs. This course is designed to give singers insight on the tools you’ll need to start building a career as a professional singer. We’ll discuss various career options and revenue streams for today’s singer and identify the elements needed to create a sustainable career. After completing this course, you will have a roadmap of the skills you want to improve, insight on how to be an effective band leader, and tools to secure gigs.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/56xjtq/building
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What's inside
Syllabus
Welcome to Building Your Career as a Professional Singer!
Welcome to the course! In this first module, we will cover all of the details about this course and what you'll need to know to get the most out of your experience.
Read more
Syllabus
Welcome to Building Your Career as a Professional Singer!
Welcome to the course! In this first module, we will cover all of the details about this course and what you'll need to know to get the most out of your experience.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Develops skills in leading a band and booking gigs
Taught by Ashlee Varner, who is recognized for their experience as a vocalist
Examines the core skills for professional singers, such as musicianship, song arrangement, and financial management
Offers a roadmap for building a career as a professional singer, including steps and milestones
Provides insight on how to secure gigs and manage finances
May require additional resources or materials to take this course
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Reviews summary
Building a professional singing career
According to students, this course offers a practical roadmap for aspiring professional singers. Learners appreciate its comprehensive coverage of career essentials, moving beyond just vocal technique to include band leadership, gig booking, financial management, and vocal health. Many highlight the instructor's industry expertise and the actionable advice provided. While it offers a strong foundation, some note that more experienced singers might find certain modules introductory, suggesting it's ideal for those starting their professional journey or seeking a holistic overview.
Highly beneficial for those new to the professional music scene.
"This course is perfect for anyone serious about transitioning from hobbyist to professional singer."
"As someone just starting my journey, this course provided an excellent foundation and answered many of my questions."
"I felt it was most beneficial for those who are just beginning to think about a career in singing, rather than seasoned pros."
Instructor provides valuable industry insights and clear instruction.
"The instructor's real-world experience shone through, providing insights I couldn't get from just vocal lessons."
"I found the instructor very knowledgeable and articulate, making complex topics easy to grasp and apply."
"The advice from someone with actual industry experience was invaluable for understanding what it takes to succeed."
Covers essential skills from musicianship to leadership.
"I particularly enjoyed the modules on leading a band and understanding chord charts; it made me a more confident musician."
"It wasn't just about singing; it covered everything from vocal warm-ups to negotiating gigs, which is truly comprehensive."
"The course helped me understand the musical knowledge needed to be a reliable and essential vocalist."
Offers actionable strategies for a professional singing career.
"This course gave me a clear roadmap for how to actually make a living as a singer, not just improve my voice."
"I learned practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to booking gigs and managing my finances."
"The focus on the business side of music was incredibly helpful; it's something many vocal courses overlook."
Some modules may feel introductory for advanced learners.
"While very good, some sections were a bit basic for my level of experience; I was hoping for more advanced strategies."
"I would have loved deeper dives into specific topics like contract law or advanced marketing for singers."
"For intermediate or advanced singers, some parts might serve more as a review than new information."
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 Building Your Career as a Professional Singer with these
activities:
Conduct Vocal Warm-ups
Show steps
Strengthen your vocal muscles and improve your vocal range by practicing vocal warm-ups before class.
Browse courses on
Vocal Techniques
Show steps
-
Engage in breathing exercises to strengthen your diaphragm and lungs.
-
Practice scales to improve your pitch and intonation.
-
Hum and sing vowel sounds to warm up your vocal cords.
Review essential music theory concepts
Show steps
Reviewing music theory will provide a solid foundation for understanding advanced concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
-
Review the basics of scales, intervals, and chords.
-
Practice identifying different types of scales and chords by ear.
-
Analyze simple melodies and chord progressions.
Watch tutorials on vocal techniques
Show steps
There are many great online tutorials on vocal techniques. Watching these tutorials will help you improve your singing skills and prepare you for live performances.
Browse courses on
Vocal Health
Show steps
-
Find a reputable vocal coach or instructor
-
Watch tutorials on different vocal techniques
-
Practice the techniques you learn
-
Record yourself singing and listen back to identify areas for improvement
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Practice vocal exercises daily
Show steps
Regular vocal exercises will strengthen your voice and improve your vocal range.
Browse courses on
Technique
Show steps
-
Perform basic vocal exercises to warm up your voice.
-
Practice scales and arpeggios to improve your vocal control.
-
Sing along to your favorite songs to improve your pitch and timing.
Record Yourself Singing
Show steps
Evaluate your vocal abilities and identify areas for improvement by recording yourself singing.
Show steps
-
Choose a song that showcases your vocal range and style.
-
Record yourself singing the song using a high-quality microphone or recording device.
-
Listen back to your recording and analyze your vocal performance.
Watch tutorials on songwriting and arranging
Show steps
Watching tutorials will provide you with valuable tips and techniques for writing and arranging your own songs.
Browse courses on
Songwriting
Show steps
-
Search for tutorials on songwriting and arranging.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes on key concepts.
-
Apply what you've learned by writing and arranging your own songs.
Start a band
Show steps
Working together with a group of musicians will help you refine your leadership skills, hone your musicality, and learn what it takes to book shows and promote your band.
Browse courses on
Band Management
Show steps
-
Recruit band members
-
Find a practice space
-
Write some original songs
-
Start gigging
Create a demo of your music
Show steps
Creating a demo of your music will help you showcase your talent and get your music heard by potential fans and industry professionals.
Browse courses on
Music Production
Show steps
-
Write and record a few songs
-
Mix and master your tracks
-
Create album art
-
Upload your demo to streaming platforms
Attend open mics and industry events
Show steps
Attending open mics and industry events will help you connect with other musicians and professionals in the music industry.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Find open mics and industry events in your area.
-
Attend the events and introduce yourself to other musicians and professionals.
-
Exchange contact information and follow up with the people you meet.
Start a personal music project
Show steps
Working on a personal music project will give you hands-on experience in all aspects of music production.
Browse courses on
Songwriting
Show steps
-
Choose a genre and theme for your project.
-
Write and record your own songs.
-
Produce and mix your songs using a digital audio workstation (DAW).
Attend workshops on music business and marketing
Show steps
Attending workshops on music business and marketing will help you learn the essential skills for promoting your music and building your career.
Show steps
-
Find workshops on music business and marketing in your area.
-
Attend the workshops and take notes on key concepts.
-
Apply what you've learned to your own music career.
Create a portfolio of your music
Show steps
Creating a portfolio will help you showcase your skills and experience as a professional singer.
Browse courses on
Portfolio
Show steps
-
Gather your best songs and performances.
-
Create a website or online portfolio to showcase your work.
-
Include a resume and biography that highlights your skills and experience.
Conduct Vocal Warm-ups
Show steps
Strengthen your vocal muscles and improve your vocal range by practicing vocal warm-ups before class.
Browse courses on
Vocal Techniques
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Engage in breathing exercises to strengthen your diaphragm and lungs.
- Practice scales to improve your pitch and intonation.
- Hum and sing vowel sounds to warm up your vocal cords.
Review essential music theory concepts
Show steps
Reviewing music theory will provide a solid foundation for understanding advanced concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Music Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the basics of scales, intervals, and chords.
- Practice identifying different types of scales and chords by ear.
- Analyze simple melodies and chord progressions.
Watch tutorials on vocal techniques
Show steps
There are many great online tutorials on vocal techniques. Watching these tutorials will help you improve your singing skills and prepare you for live performances.
Browse courses on
Vocal Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a reputable vocal coach or instructor
- Watch tutorials on different vocal techniques
- Practice the techniques you learn
- Record yourself singing and listen back to identify areas for improvement
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Practice vocal exercises daily
Show steps
Regular vocal exercises will strengthen your voice and improve your vocal range.
Browse courses on
Technique
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Perform basic vocal exercises to warm up your voice.
- Practice scales and arpeggios to improve your vocal control.
- Sing along to your favorite songs to improve your pitch and timing.
Record Yourself Singing
Show steps
Evaluate your vocal abilities and identify areas for improvement by recording yourself singing.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a song that showcases your vocal range and style.
- Record yourself singing the song using a high-quality microphone or recording device.
- Listen back to your recording and analyze your vocal performance.
Watch tutorials on songwriting and arranging
Show steps
Watching tutorials will provide you with valuable tips and techniques for writing and arranging your own songs.
Browse courses on
Songwriting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for tutorials on songwriting and arranging.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes on key concepts.
- Apply what you've learned by writing and arranging your own songs.
Start a band
Show steps
Working together with a group of musicians will help you refine your leadership skills, hone your musicality, and learn what it takes to book shows and promote your band.
Browse courses on
Band Management
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Recruit band members
- Find a practice space
- Write some original songs
- Start gigging
Create a demo of your music
Show steps
Creating a demo of your music will help you showcase your talent and get your music heard by potential fans and industry professionals.
Browse courses on
Music Production
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Write and record a few songs
- Mix and master your tracks
- Create album art
- Upload your demo to streaming platforms
Attend open mics and industry events
Show steps
Attending open mics and industry events will help you connect with other musicians and professionals in the music industry.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find open mics and industry events in your area.
- Attend the events and introduce yourself to other musicians and professionals.
- Exchange contact information and follow up with the people you meet.
Start a personal music project
Show steps
Working on a personal music project will give you hands-on experience in all aspects of music production.
Browse courses on
Songwriting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a genre and theme for your project.
- Write and record your own songs.
- Produce and mix your songs using a digital audio workstation (DAW).
Attend workshops on music business and marketing
Show steps
Attending workshops on music business and marketing will help you learn the essential skills for promoting your music and building your career.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find workshops on music business and marketing in your area.
- Attend the workshops and take notes on key concepts.
- Apply what you've learned to your own music career.
Create a portfolio of your music
Show steps
Creating a portfolio will help you showcase your skills and experience as a professional singer.
Browse courses on
Portfolio
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your best songs and performances.
- Create a website or online portfolio to showcase your work.
- Include a resume and biography that highlights your skills and experience.
Career center
Learners who complete Building Your Career as a Professional Singer will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Music Director
Music Director
Music Directors lead and conduct musical groups, such as orchestras, bands, and choirs. They are responsible for interpreting musical scores, rehearsing musicians, and ensuring that performances are of the highest quality. This course can help Music Directors develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to lead a band, arrange songs, and manage finances.
Musician
Musician
Musicians perform music on a variety of instruments. They may work as soloists, in bands, or in orchestras. This course can help Musicians develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to arrange songs, record demos, and manage their finances.
Producer
Producer
Producers oversee the production of music recordings. They work with musicians, engineers, and other professionals to ensure that the final product meets the artist's vision. This course can help Producers develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to arrange songs, manage finances, and lead a band.
Vocal Coach
Vocal Coach
Vocal Coaches provide instruction and guidance to singers. They help singers develop their vocal technique, improve their range, and prepare for performances. This course can help Vocal Coaches develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to teach vocal technique, assess vocal health, and manage a studio.
Artist Manager
Artist Manager
Artist Managers represent and support musicians. They help artists book gigs, negotiate contracts, and develop their careers. This course can help Artist Managers develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to manage finances, book gigs, and lead a band.
Booking Agent
Booking Agent
Booking Agents arrange live performances for musicians. They work with venues, promoters, and artists to ensure that artists have a successful tour. This course can help Booking Agents develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to book gigs, manage finances, and lead a band.
Music Publisher
Music Publisher
Music Publishers acquire and license copyrights to musical compositions. They work with songwriters, composers, and artists to ensure that their music is properly protected and promoted. This course can help Music Publishers develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to manage finances, arrange songs, and understand the music industry.
Music Journalist
Music Journalist
Music Journalists write about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They interview artists, review concerts, and provide commentary on the latest trends in the music industry. This course can help Music Journalists develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to conduct interviews, write reviews, and understand the music industry.
Music Educator
Music Educator
Music Educators teach music in schools, colleges, and universities. They develop and implement lesson plans, teach students about music theory and history, and lead ensembles. This course can help Music Educators develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to teach music theory, lead a band, and manage a classroom.
Music Therapist
Music Therapist
Music Therapists use music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and cognitive health. They work with patients in hospitals, clinics, and schools. This course can help Music Therapists develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to assess vocal health, lead a group, and understand the music therapy process.
Songwriter
Songwriter
Songwriters write the lyrics and music for songs. They may work independently or collaborate with other musicians. This course can help Songwriters develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to write songs, arrange songs, and understand the music industry.
Composer
Composer
Composers write music for a variety of purposes, such as film, television, and video games. They may work independently or collaborate with other musicians. This course can help Composers develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to write music, arrange songs, and understand the music industry.
Arranger
Arranger
Arrangers take existing music and adapt it for a different ensemble or instrument. They may also write new music for a specific purpose. This course can help Arrangers develop the skills they need to be successful, such as how to arrange songs, write music, and understand the music industry.
Sound Engineer
Sound Engineer
Sound Engineers record, mix, and master audio. They work in a variety of settings, such as recording studios, live music venues, and film and television production companies. This course may be useful for Sound Engineers who want to learn more about the music industry and how to work with musicians.
Music Librarian
Music Librarian
Music Librarians organize and maintain music collections in libraries and archives. They may also provide reference services to researchers and the general public. This course may be useful for Music Librarians who want to learn more about the music industry and how to work with musicians.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/56xjtq/building
Reading list
We've selected ten 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
Building Your Career as a Professional Singer.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of vocal pedagogy. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the science and art of teaching singing.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of singing. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the science and art of singing.
Save
Offers practical advice on preparing for and giving successful vocal performances. Covers topics such as stage presence, vocal projection, and dealing with nerves. A useful resource for singers who want to improve their performance skills.
Provides comprehensive information on the business side of the music industry, including how to start a business, protect your intellectual property, and market your music.
Provides a comprehensive set of vocal exercises for singers of all levels.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the music industry. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the business side of music.
Provides a comprehensive guide to the business side of being a professional singer. Covers topics such as marketing, branding, and financial planning. Essential reading for singers who want to build a sustainable career in the music industry.
Save
Provides a detailed look at the vocal techniques used by professional singers. Covers topics such as breath control, resonance, and vocal agility. A valuable resource for singers who want to improve their vocal skills and develop a more expressive voice.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the music industry and how singers can navigate it. Covers topics such as record labels, publishing, and touring. A valuable resource for singers who want to understand the business side of the music industry.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the music industry and how singers can navigate it. Covers topics such as record labels, publishing, and touring. A valuable resource for singers who want to understand the business side of the music industry.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/56xjtq/building
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