Using books and methods while still learning with a teacher

[JohnnyL]

So, most of the books (or programs) I've seen start from the basics. However, I've been studying with a teacher for a while now and she keeps me on a very extensive regime of breathing, lip bubbles and all other exercises. Do you think that when using a book/method just to pick up a few additional techniques one should start from the basics (and work with the teacher) or upon one's judgement skipping to more advanced techniques (when you're already studying with a teacher) is sensible?

Just to explain: I'm using Vendera's book - and feel that working hard on his basic exercises is just another way to do what I'm already doing while, for example, the Transcending Tone exercise was a great addition to my (already busy) exercising routine.

Basically, I'm trying to get your opinion and adivec on mixing between programs/schools of thought and how to do it right...

[ronws]

I can respond by saying I have no advice to give, or even a patent approval of taking both lessons and studying other stuff on your own that maybe your teacher thinks should wait until later (and you did not mention that.)

But the good thing is that you are thinking through it seriously. Each person learns different things at different rates.

And I think you have already made up your mind, you just want some justification from others. I can say this, though, if you try an advanced technique and mess up, at least you have a teacher to rehab you and pick up the pieces if it "all goes horribly wrong."

[Owen Korzec]

At the lessons, start with the basics as your teacher directs even if you think the programs and books taught you it all. Usually they don't actually help much and you interpret a lot of it incorrectly until AFTER you've taken lessons!

[JohnnyL]

Well, my teacher seems to be okay with everything that doesn't include 'forcing' and 'tension'. So her advice was - avoid anything that requires you to force yourself. So in this spirit I'm being very cautious... so far it works... I think. :)

[ronws]

Well, my teacher seems to be okay with everything that doesn't include 'forcing' and 'tension'. So her advice was - avoid anything that requires you to force yourself. So in this spirit I'm being very cautious... so far it works... I think.

And if I were a singing teacher, I would say the same thing. I have been a teacher (of my trade, not singing) and I have simply found that different people learn different things at different rates and sometimes, "out of order." Sometimes studying something "advanced" shows you why this "basic" thing is so important.

[JohnnyL]

So I probably shouldn't worry and just keep on experimenting with some extra material... as long as I don't force it.

OK :)

[VideoHere]

ah, but that advice can be easily misinterpreted. "don't force yourself"..."no tension"

and you respond by going into caution mode.........and that's not the way either. you want to be relaxed yet energized and confident.

if you are fortunate enough to afford a teacher? stay with the teacher. if you deviate, you might knock your voice out of balance.

addendum: why not run by the teacher what exercises you'd like to supplement with? you might save yourself a lot of aggravation....