Let’s get one thing clear right from the start: not every vocal coach is right for every person. And that’s okay.

Actually - it’s more than okay. It’s essential that you find someone who’s the right fit for you.

At BHVA, we’re not here to tell you to “just pick us.” We’re here to help you choose the right coach - even if that’s not us.

In this blog, we’re sharing what we’ve learned after years of coaching all kinds of voices.

These are the things we wished everyone knew before signing up for singing lessons.

The questions to ask, the red flags to watch out for, and the green flags to celebrate.

Let’s dive in.

Shop Around (Seriously!)

You wouldn’t buy the first house you see without viewing a few more. The same goes for choosing a vocal coach.

Have an initial session. See how it feels. Then try another one.

That first chat shouldn’t be a hard sell.

It should feel like a two-way conversation.

If someone’s trying to sign you up for 6 weeks before even meeting you or asking about your goals… big red flag.

Look for someone who wants to get to know you first, not lock you in.

Trust Your Gut

If something feels a bit off - it probably is.

Your coach should be someone you like talking to.

Someone you feel safe with.

If you're awkward, tense, or unable to speak up in sessions, it’s going to block your learning.

This is about more than singing. It’s about confidence, trust, and expression. So find someone you’re comfortable being with.

Check They Teach the Style You Want

Classical. Musical theatre. Pop. Jazz. Rock. They all need different techniques and training.

Think of it like sports - Roger Federer might be an incredible tennis player, but that doesn’t mean he’d smash it at badminton. Vocal styles are the same.

Ask your coach what they specialise in. If they can’t support your goals - or can’t explain how they’d support them - it might not be the right fit.

Bonus tip: if you don’t know your style yet, that’s okay too. The right coach will help you explore it - not shove you into a box.

Ask: Do They Understand Your Voice?

Teaching kids is different from teaching adults. Teen voices go through huge changes. Older voices face different challenges. A great coach understands all this.

Especially for young singers - your coach needs to know how to protect and guide developing voices. If a child wants to belt or tackle a tricky piece, they need to be supported to do it safely, not told “you’re too young.”

And for adults? It’s never too late to sing. We work with people in their 50s, 60s, and beyond who are only just rediscovering their voice.

You deserve a coach who respects where you’re starting from and helps you grow from there.

Check Their Vocal Health Knowledge

Here’s a tricky one. Some coaches claim they can “fix” your voice. Be careful.

True vocal health support is specialist. There are brilliant voice rehab coaches out there (and no shame if you’re not one - we’re not either!). But they’re trained to work alongside ENT specialists and speech therapists.

If a coach makes big promises, ask whether they’re BAPAM-registered or trained in vocal health. Or ask what they’d do if something did go wrong. A great coach knows their limits - and knows when to refer you to someone else.

Do They Teach You or Just Teach?

Last but not least: is your coach actually listening to you?

Are they building lessons around your goals? Your voice? Your learning style?

Or are they just delivering a pre-set curriculum because “that’s how they were taught”?

A great coach will ask what you want. And then help you get there - without needing to throw jargon or overwhelm you. (Unless you’re into that. We’ve got books, too.)

Final Thought: You’re Allowed to Take Your Time

Finding the right coach is like finding the right shoes.

It has to fit.

You’re allowed to try a few on first.

You’re allowed to say no.

You’re allowed to ask questions.

And if you’re not sure what you’re looking for yet?

That’s okay too. A good coach will help you figure it out - without pressure.

At BHVA, we’ve helped hundreds of singers find their voice.

If we’re the right fit for you, amazing. If not, we’ll happily help point you toward someone who is.

This is your journey. Let’s make sure it starts with the right guide.

Want to chat it through?
Drop us a message at [email protected]
Or check out the full vlog here if you haven’t already!