Cynthia Bythell, longtime Open Exchange lister, offers personalized vocal instruction for all levels and styles.

Let me tell you about someone I'll call Mr. Wannasing. (Ok, I made up the name but this is actually a true story.) Mr. W. came to me for vocal lessons. Unfortunately, he literally could not carry a tune. I tested his "musical ear' and found he definitely had the ability to hear the difference between higher and lower pitches. We began working on a five note scale and moved on to that ever popular standard, Happy Birthday To You! It was a tedious effort that took many weeks (maybe months) but it was never that hard again.

Gradually, Mr. W. learned popular songs and complex vocal exercises. He eventually nailed basic singing technique which enabled him to sound good, control his breath, sustain notes, sing high and low. He got so he could do what he wanted with his voice without sore throats or hoarseness. Two years after he came to me, he was singing lead in a working band!

Granted, this student had an exceptionally positive attitude, kept his weekly appointment, and applied himself. But while these results may not be typical, how will you know how far you can take your desire to sing unless you try? What have you got to lose? You might be able to sing professionally, or impress audiences at the local karaoke bar. Or, maybe you'll just stop embarrassing yourself when they bring out the birthday cake! At the very least, you could have the self-satisfaction of knowing you had the nerve to give singing a chance. So, get out of the shower, and call a qualified voice teacher. (Alright, maybe you should dry off first!)