Is It Ever Too Late for Singing Lessons? Vocal Coach Weighs In

We receive countless inquiries from adult students wondering if it's too late to learn how to sing. We have worked with many students over the years and witnessed how life-changing this journey can be, regardless of their age.

The notion that singing is only for the young is a myth, as pop culture often glamorizes teenage stars and feeds us the idea of instantaneous success and fame. However, our experience as vocal coaches at the Angeles Academy of Music has shown us that singing is a skill that takes a lifetime to master and is not limited to just young people. 

The goal isn’t to become the next pop star but to grow, enjoy the journey, and take it one step at a time.

Perfectionism often stops people from moving forward, but the best way to make progress is to focus on your own growth. The secret is nothing more than learning the right singing techniques and focusing on practice.

In this article, we will look at why it’s never too late to start singing. We will share the changes we have seen in our adult students. You will also learn how to begin your own musical journey, one step at a time.

Bill Withers, a Grammy award-winning musician, began his music career in his 30s and gave us hits like "Ain't No Sunshine."

Why Do People Believe Singing Is a “Young Person’s” Skill?

The notion that singing is best learned in childhood stems from misconceptions about how the voice develops. Children have more flexibility in their vocal cords. They also learn skills quickly. However, adults offer important qualities, too. They bring focus, discipline, and life experience. 

The myth of "too late" has more to do with societal pressures and less to do with actual science or skill-building. Adults have special advantages in learning and showing discipline, expressing emotions, and analyzing and improving their skills.

Talent shows like American Idol and The Voice often feature younger contestants, creating the illusion that success in music is only achievable in one’s teens or twenties. Similarly, the entertainment industry frequently spotlights young singers, feeding the idea that talent has an expiration date.

However, history offers a counter-narrative. For example, Susan Boyle rose to global fame at 47 after her breathtaking audition on Britain’s Got Talent. Her story shattered age-related stereotypes about pursuing music. 

Similarly, opera singers often reach their vocal prime in their 30s and 40s because the voice matures with age. Many experienced singers will tell you how their voices are still developing and how they are better than ever at an older age.

Misconceptions About Vocal Development

One of the main reasons people think singing is for the young is the way our voices naturally change over time. Voice teachers may tell you that children’s vocal cords are smaller and thinner, making their voices lighter and more flexible. 

During puberty, vocal cords thicken and lengthen, leading to voice changes. Many assume that after this period, the voice becomes "set in stone," but this is far from true.

Research shows that the human voice is adaptable throughout life. For instance, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Voice demonstrated that with consistent vocal training, adults of all ages can improve their vocal range, control, and tone. The key factor isn’t age. It’s practice and technique.

Scientific Evidence Refuting the Myth

Scientific studies reinforce that age is not a limiting factor in vocal development. A study conducted by the University of Texas found that older adults who engaged in regular singing lessons improved their vocal function, lung capacity, and overall vocal performance. 

The study included participants aged 50 to 85 and had different skill levels. That shows that the voice can still be trained in later life. 

Another example is the growth of adult choirs around the world. Organizations like Encore Creativity for Older Adults, the largest choral program for older adults in the U.S., have seen tremendous success. 

Their programs consistently demonstrate that seniors can learn to sing, harmonize, and even perform in professional-grade concerts with no prior musical experience.

Is It Harder to Learn to Sing as an Adult?

Not necessarily. Adults may face different challenges, such as unlearning bad habits or addressing self-consciousness, but they also bring maturity, patience, and an ability to understand complex instructions. 

Vocal training is a process that relies on muscle memory, breath control, and consistency, all of which can be improved at any age.

Moreover, adults often have a deeper emotional understanding of music, which allows them to bring greater depth and expression to their singing.

Adults also bring several technical advantages to voice lessons. For one, they typically have a stronger awareness of their own bodies, which helps them grasp concepts like breath support and posture more effectively. 

This physical awareness is critical for developing a healthy and sustainable singing technique. Additionally, life experiences give adults the ability to connect emotionally with songs in a way that younger learners may not yet be able to achieve.

Another advantage is that adults are often better equipped to process complex concepts and vocal techniques, such as vocal resonance, tonal placement, and phrasing. Unlike children, who may struggle to follow detailed instructions, adults can analyze and implement feedback with precision. 

They also tend to approach learning with a sense of discipline, creating consistent practice habits that are key to building muscle memory and developing vocal skills.

At Angeles Academy of Music, we’ve seen firsthand how adults thrive in vocal training. Many of our adult students start with little to no experience and go on to achieve remarkable progress. That’s why we claim ourselves to be one of the best music schools in Los Angeles.

For instance, a 45-year-old corporate professional who initially doubted her ability to sing now performs confidently at community events after just one year of lessons. 

A 60-year-old retiree discovered a passion for opera and is now a valued member of a local choir, proving that it’s never too late to explore your potential. Meanwhile, another 32-year-old aspiring songwriter gained the technical skills to match his creativity, transforming his songs with polished vocals and emotive power.

Our instructors go through specialized training programs that help them create custom-tailored curricula that are ideally suited to each client, regardless of their age.  

They work on helping you learn music you love while making sure the challenge level is appropriate for each step in development. Unlike all other music schools, we offer many adult-only performance opportunities specific to age and level.  This way, we ensure that adults are truly comfortable surrounded by their peers.

The training also includes focusing on techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing, vocal placement, and expanding vocal range, all while building confidence.

With the right mindset and guidance, learning to sing as an adult is not only achievable but immensely rewarding.

Can You Train Yourself to Sing as an Adult?

Yes, you absolutely can! With the right resources and a structured practice routine, self-training, especially from online music lessons, can yield noticeable results. However, working with a qualified vocal coach can help you progress faster and avoid common mistakes, such as straining your voice or using improper techniques.

At What Age Is It Too Late to Learn Singing?

There is no “too late.” Voices mature over time, and even older adults can develop stronger, more resonant tones with practice. Many people in their 40s, 50s, and beyond start lessons and find incredible joy and growth. You can start anywhere with sources as simple as taking a lesson online or trying to sing your favorite rock music anthem note to note.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or revisiting a childhood passion, singing can be a lifelong journey. Remember, music is a form of self-expression that extends to becoming a social activity too, but it was never meant to be as “technical” as we humans have made it out to be. 

If you can hit the notes right and people can connect with what you’re performing, you are a singer, and it’s as simple as that. With training, you can condition your vocals to follow your command and build a muscle memory that makes you a good singer at any age. 

How to Improve Your Singing Voice at Any Age

Improving your singing voice is a journey that requires consistency, technique, and self-awareness. Regardless of your age or starting point, you can make significant progress by focusing on key aspects of vocal training.

• Warm-Up Exercises

Start every practice session with warm-ups like humming or lip trills to prepare your vocal cords. Skipping warm-ups can lead to strain or injury. Renée Fleming, a world-renowned soprano, emphasizes, “Warm-ups are critical to vocal health and longevity.”

• Breath Control Training

Practice diaphragmatic breathing to sing with better tone and stability. Studies show that proper breath control increases vocal efficiency by up to 30%. Legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti credited his breathwork as the key to sustaining long operatic phrases.

• Daily Practice

“The most crucial ingredient for success in music is what happens in the practice room.” - William Westney

Even 10-15 minutes a day can yield noticeable improvements. According to vocal coaches, consistent practice builds muscle memory and refines tone. 

• Hire a Good Vocal Coach

A skilled vocal coach can identify bad habits, improve technique, and accelerate progress. You would be surprised to know how even famous pop singers like Dua Lipa, Ellie Goulding, Tom Walker, etc., hire vocal coaches, even at the top of their career, to improve performance. 

We, at the Angeles Academy of Music have coached serval celebrity singers, including working with Paris Hilton and Nicole Ricci, and many others, which we can’t disclose due to confidentiality clauses and protection of their privacy.  

• Record and Review Yourself

Have you ever seen mirrors and video cameras that capture K-pop performers? That’s because so they can monitor the dance and sing both using the mirror and camera feedback. 

Regularly record your practice sessions to analyze progress and identify areas for improvement. Studies show that self-assessment can improve skill retention by 20%. Beyoncé is known to review her performances in detail to perfect her craft.

• Hydration and Vocal Health

Keep your vocal cords hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Dehydrated cords can lead to strain or hoarseness. According to the National Institute on Deafness, staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to protect your voice.

• Experiment and Find Your Unique Sound

Instead of imitating others, embrace your voice's individuality. Frank Sinatra famously developed his signature phrasing style by focusing on his unique vocal qualities. As Claude Debussy once said, “Works of art make rules; rules do not make works of art.”

The Benefits of Singing as an Adult

Singing isn’t just about developing a skill; it’s a transformative activity that can enhance your emotional well-being and enrich your life in numerous ways. Here are some of the most impactful benefits for adults:

• Improved Confidence

Singing boosts self-esteem as you learn new skills and gain confidence in your abilities. Susan Boyle, who started her singing journey later in life, gained worldwide acclaim and became an inspiration for pursuing dreams at any age.

• Stress Relief

Singing releases endorphins and oxytocin, which reduce stress and anxiety. A 2020 study found that group singing reduces cortisol levels, the stress hormone, by up to 40%. 

• Social Connection

Joining choirs or group singing activities creates bonds and a sense of belonging. The Encore Creativity for Older Adults program has shown that group singing can significantly improve mental well-being and reduce loneliness in seniors.

• A Lifelong Hobby

Singing can become a rewarding hobby, providing joy and fulfillment at any age that lasts forever. Andrea Bocelli began performing professionally at 34, proving it’s never too late to build a career or passion around music.

Final Thoughts

The myths surrounding age and singing often stem from societal expectations rather than scientific facts. From the stories of Susan Boyle and Andrea Bocelli to countless everyday individuals transforming their lives through music and a lot of scientific research, the evidence is clear: it’s never too late to start singing.

Whether you aim to perform professionally, join a choir, or simply enjoy the thrill of music, the key lies in dedication, practice, and embracing your unique journey. With proper guidance, discipline, and a passion for learning, anyone can unlock their vocal potential and experience the joy of singing.

So take that first step, whether it’s enrolling in lessons, joining a choir, or simply singing in the shower. The beauty of music lies in its inclusivity, and your voice is an irreplaceable part of that tapestry. It’s never too late to discover your unique gifts and let your voice be heard.

Take the first step today! Join one of our vocal coaches or take singing lessons, connect with a local choir, or start exploring online tutorials. If you're looking for expert guidance, contact the Angeles Academy of Music (a Los Angeles Music Academy) to schedule one of your first singing lessons.   

Angeles Academy of Music has a reputation for being one of the best music schools in California, and if you live in the Los Angeles area, please contact us and get your vocal lessons started today!