You always have the power to decide which way to go.  What does this have to do with singing? EVERYTHING!

Not only do students have to swim against the current of their own internal feelings because as they practice their instrument, it is not always self-evident that he or she is getting better; and this is where the issue lies, not in the student’s creative ability, but in the student’s capacity to deal with the, so-called, bad sound before the good sound can be efficiently produced.

From day one students in the Performance Workshops know that a 10-week commitment to themselves to do everything from choosing a song, putting it in the right key and doing vocal exercises, to meeting weekly for tweaking their instrument and singing in front of others in their 8-person group, while sometimes wrestling with how to deal with the technique and fully express themselves.  This is an uphill climb all the way to the top. You are going to feel it and your life is going to reflect it. 

Those who go the full 10 weeks ALWAYS develop a confidence in their singing ability, and ultimately, within themselves.  They stand on stage and take their place fully in control no matter what stage of development and do one thing and one thing alone, sing the message of the song from their heart, that requires courage especially if you’ve ever had to deal with feelings of not being good enough.  The students have to choose to believe in themselves, and they do!

The students defy the logic in their programming by going in the opposite direction.  They sing even though they are nervous and realize that what they are feeling is really energy to assist them in their presentation.  It is wonderful to see the full expression of someone who is no longer negatively governed by outside cues and can relax into what the instrument can fully be.

I tell my students to never compare themselves to anyone else because absolutely no one else shines quite like they do.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this blog and know that courage is in you no matter where you are, no matter what your circumstance. Walk with Courage as we end this year and walk right into the new one with our eyes wide open!  

Keep on singing 
Roxanne Goodman
The Confidence Booster

Have A Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays
And may God Bless and keep each and every one of you!