Join us in welcoming our newest columnist Blair Clark!
Take a little soul, throw in some jazz, mix it with some blues, add a touch of R&B and the result is the electrifying sounds of Blair Clark.
Clark has captivated audiences all over the U.S. and Europe.As a singer, songwriter and entertainer, Clark has written for various artists, including co-writing with Narada Michael Walden and Preston Glass. As a producer, he has created in studios in Los Angeles, Dallas and Nashville.
Clark has spent more than two decades shaping the next generation of musical talent. He is the president and founder of B# Voice and Performance School, coaching, producing and mentoring vocalists of all ages for over 35 years, specializing in vocal training and performance technique.
Beyond performance and coaching, Clark is the president and owner of Artist Development Company, where he refines talent, builds brand awareness and connects artists with industry opportunities.
For more information, visit Clark’s official websites: Artist Development, Blair Clark Music and B# Voice and Performance School.
Photo: Greg Kicinski Photography
Unlocking Your Voice: A Vocal Coach’s Guide to Growth
By Blair Clark
In more than three decades as a vocal coach, the question I am asked most frequently is simple: “Can you improve my singing voice?”
The answer is a resounding yes. Any voice can improve. However, the extent of that improvement depends heavily on your starting point and, most importantly, your practice habits.
To understand how a voice develops, I break the process down into three specific pillars: technique, musicality and performance. While they are distinct concepts, they are equally important in building a complete artist. I often tell my students that the whole body is the instrument.
The Three Pillars of Vocal Success
- Technique: This serves as the foundation of singing. It encompasses critical physical habits such as breath control, posture, vocal placement and resonance. Without strong technique, a singer risks fatigue or injury.
- Musicality: This focuses on the auditory and structural elements of music. It includes ear training, pitch accuracy, rhythm and harmony work. Musicality ensures you are not just making sound, but making music.
- Performance: This is where the music connects with the audience. It includes emotional interpretation and stage presence. A singer can have flawless technique, but they must also know how to deliver a story.
Improving these areas is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Every artist possesses unique strengths and weaknesses across these three categories. The first step toward growth is identifying where those strengths and weaknesses lie, which allows us to create a tailored approach to build a more confident performer.
Defining Your Vocal Goals
When I begin working with a new student, my first question is always, “What is your goal?”
Understanding your objective is critical because it dictates our roadmap. Different goals require different areas of focus. Some singers want to land solo opportunities in show choir or secure the lead role in an upcoming musical. Others are seasoned stage performers or recording artists looking to refine their professional skills.
Meanwhile, many of my students have simpler, equally valid ambitions. They may sing in a church choir or simply want to sound better while participating with the congregation on Sundays.
No matter the destination, the training must match the ambition. A pop recording artist needs different stylistic adjustments than a traditional musical theater performer, yet both require the same fundamental pillars of technique.
In this ongoing column, I will offer information, practical advice and answers to the questions you have about your voice. Together, we will explore the tangible steps you can take to reach your goals, unlock your potential and take your talent to the next stage.
