What place does music theory have in vocal training?

A more in depth knowledge of the way music works and functions is not generally what singing students have in mind when coming for singing lessons. In the vast majority, music theory is deemed unnecessary for the student’s goals to be achieved, which is usually vocal development and being capable to perform comfortably on stage. The ability to decode music and read the notes on the sheet will in fact speed up and enhance vocal training. Music theory training should be thought of as an invaluable investment on the students’ vocal journey and also a gift that will keep on giving throughout that journey. Having that in depth knowledge of music theory will boost confidence, allow better understanding of what the music would like the singer to do, which in turn makes for a more accurate and better performance. It also gives each student a more active role in his/her practice and a greater responsibility in his/her vocal training. After all……knowledge is power!