Singer

Singers have exceptional singing ability and usually sing solo, in small groups of up to six or so singers, or in choirs, musicals, comedies or operas. To become a professional singer, an exceptional voice and talent is needed and a great deal of time must be spent practising singing and music. Singers practise alone or with other people in a small group or a large choir.

Singers interpret music using their knowledge of harmony, rhythm and voice. They interpret the meaning of the words and give the right emotional value to the song. They follow or memorise printed text and musical notation and may sing a capella or with instrumental accompaniment.

Some singers make recordings or go on concert tours while others perform in operas, musicals or appear as concert soloists. Some singers sing in films, on stage, on radio and television, in nightclubs and in other places of entertainment. Some singers teach and direct choirs or give private voice lessons.

Singers are known according to their voice ranges as sopranos, contraltos, basses, baritones or tenors. Dancing, playing musical instruments and/or acting are part of singers’ training and good singers are often also fully-fledged actors and musicians.

In addition to public appearances on stage, singers must often perform in studios, where recordings take place. Studio work can be tiring because a song must often be sung a number of times until a satisfactory recording is made.

Personal Requirements

musical ability and a very good voice
poise and stage presence
perseverance and great determination
good health and have physical stamina
an attractive appearance helps for visual performances

Employment

performing arts councils
theatre production studios
motion picture studios
radio or television networks
member of a permanent choir
recording studios
nightclubs and other places of entertainment
opera schools, as a teacher
self-employment, as a freelance singer and/or singing teacher with own studio

Prospects for a full-time career in singing are only possible for the exceptionally talented. Competition is very strong in this career field and many persons make singing a part-time career. A professional trained singer has a wide range of very interesting career opportunities to choose from: as a soloist in an opera, a member of a permanent choir or at one of the regional art councils.

Getting Started

get a strong background in music
take private acting, singing and dancing lessons
try to obtain singing experience by acting in school and community plays
attend professional productions to observe successful singers of different kinds
arrange to speak to singers about this type of career

Programmes

Boston City Campus and Business College does not offer a programme that leads directly to this occupation. Please take a look at the related occupations below to see whether any of these appeal to you. Alternately, please send an email to taryn@boston.co.za and a Student Advisor will call you back.

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Drama Teacher and Therapist

Film and Television Careers