I’ve decided to take singing lessons. At first this seemed very strange to me, singing is simple why take a lesson? But a voice is an instrument like any other and you need to learn how to play it. So I found a studio near by, Rocío Guitard Vocal Studio, and have taken three lessons so far.

I’ve been singing at karaoke for about, oh say, 8 or 9 years. I have no problem getting up in front of a bunch of strangers and singing – though I usually do a lot better with red spotlights (I blush terribly), but I can cope without them. I also sang in chorus from sixth to eighth grade, which was not a problem. But put me in front of someone – one on one, just the two of us – and I can’t do it. Just can’t. (Especially if it’s someone I know well.)

So that’s just one of my problems. The other is that I don’t really know if I sound ok. My first lesson was three weekends ago and my teacher, Iari, seemed to think I was alright. But he’s getting paid to teach, so of course he’s going to think I sound alright – enough to continue teaching me anyway. I bought a recorder last week and have listened to myself, which I have to say is a very strange and surreal experience. My voice sounds so different in my head compared to what someone else hears, which is true for everyone.

Two weeks ago I was thinking I don’t know why I’m doing this, don’t know if I should continue. And if I do continue don’t know if I could ever really get up in front people and do the real deal. But then in the lesson that followed these thoughts I had a blast, and Iari had me singing really well. I suppose the reasons don’t matter, if I’m enjoying myself that’s reason enough to go on.

I really had a good time at this past weekend’s lesson. Iari’s boss, Rocío, came to observe him teaching. I was a little nervous about it, but I think he may have been more nervous. She helped out in a spot or two during the lesson and in the end she said I sounded great, that I have a lovely voice. It was nice to get the compliment, and I hope she’s right 🙂