Voice and Singing Lessons for All Ages
Whether you're a young singer finding your voice, a teen preparing for auditions, or an adult who has always wanted to sing, we see the musician in you!
The Music Institute of Chicago offers private voice lessons for beginners through advanced singers in classical, musical theater, and popular styles at campuses across Chicagoland, including Evanston, Winnetka, Lake Forest, Hinsdale, and downtown Chicago.
Why take voice lessons at MIC?
- A teacher matched to you. We place every singer with a teacher who fits their age, level, goals, and favorite style of music.
- Healthy technique that lasts. Lessons build breath support, tone, range, and vocal health, so you sing with confidence and without strain.
- Every style you want to sing. Classical, musical theater, pop, commercial, jazz, folk, liturgical, and more. If you love it, we will help you sing it.
- Places to perform. Voice recitals and the MIC Chorale give singers a stage and a community.
- For every stage of life. We teach children, teens, and adults, including many first-time singers.
What you will learn
Every lesson is shaped around the singer, and most students work on:
- Breathing and support: the foundation of a strong, steady sound.
- Vocal technique: tone, range, flexibility, and keeping your voice healthy.
- Diction and languages: singing clearly in English and, for classical singers, Italian, German, French, and more.
- Musicianship: Music theory, reading music, learning songs efficiently, and singing in tune.
- Performance: stage presence, interpreting a song, and managing nervousness.
Voice lessons for every singer
Young singers and teens
Lessons help young singers develop good habits early and grow their confidence. Teens can prepare for school musicals, choir auditions, solo competitions, and college or conservatory auditions.
Musical theater
Learn to sing with power and expression while you act through a song. Students build audition repertoire.
Adults
It's never too late to learn how to sing. Adult students come to us to return to singing after years away, to learn to sing for the first time, or to sing alongside others in the MIC Chorale.
Tips for singers from our voice faculty
Finding the right voice teacher
The best teacher for you is one who listens to your goals, explains things in a way that clicks, and makes you feel safe trying new sounds. When you inquire, tell us what you want to sing and why. We’ll match you with a teacher who fits.
What to expect in your first lesson
Your teacher will get to know your voice with simple warm-ups and a song you enjoy, and talk with you about your goals. No experience or audition is needed. Just come curious.
Keeping your voice healthy
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, not just before you sing.
- Warm up before you sing and cool down after.
- Get enough sleep. Your voice is part of your body.
- Rest your voice when you’re sick, and avoid shouting or straining.
Explore different styles
Singing in a new style, whether jazz, folk, musical theater, or classical, stretches your voice and your musicianship. Many of our students discover a favorite they never expected.
Preparing for an audition
Choose songs that show off what you do best, practice them until you’re comfortable, and rehearse in front of someone before the big day. Our teachers help students prepare for school musicals, choirs, competitions, and college and conservatory auditions.
Sing with others
Singing in a group builds listening skills, confidence, and friendships. Adult singers can join the MIC Chorale, and voice students perform in recitals and musical theater productions.
Make music. Make friends. Build confidence.
At MIC, private lessons are one part of nurturing the whole musician, alongside practice, music theory, ensembles, and performance. Voice studens perform in recitals at Nichols Concert Hall in downtown Evanston and join a community of musicians who encourage one another.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you need to be to start with voice lessons or singing lessons?
Private voice lessons are available for singers aged 7 and up. There is no upper age limit.
I've never sung before. Is that OK?
Absolutely. Many of our students are beginners. Your teacher will start where you are and help you build skills step by step.
What styles can I study?
Classical, musical theater, and popular styles. Tell us what you love to sing when you inquire, and we'll do our best to match you with the right teacher.
How much do voice lessons cost?
Tuition depends on several factors, including lesson length. Inquire to ask about tuition rates and financial aid.
When can I start?
Enrollment is open throughout the year, so you can begin at any time.
Ready to sing? Tell us a little about yourself or your singer, and we'll match you with the right teacher.
