Why would I start voice lessons at my age? I’ve asked myself that question over and over, and have been asked something similar by others. Eventually, after trying to come up with an answer that makes sense, I recognized that there are many factors involved. Lets start with the caveat of “at my age?” What does my age have to do with it?
“At my age” implies a fair amount of age bias, which is not unique just to my vocal training. What do I believe about my current age? When are you too old to do something? What are the real limits to learning something? I do see myself as old. While this is a fairly new self evaluation, I do see it as true. I sometimes revert to thinking that old = done. I know 70 and 80 year olds that continue to engage in all kinds of activities such as competitive swimming, volleyball, and horsemanship. Other people I know are also learning new languages and starting new musical instruments. For me new learning takes a little more time “at my age”, but I’m certainly doing it.
Relevant factors also include the purpose of starting a new activity and the expectations regarding ROI. I started voice lessons in my “senior” years because I truly love singing in private and publicly, and want to be able to do it as well as possible for as long as possible. In order to do that I need to refine and/or adjust my technique in order to protect my voice. That’s what lessons are about. I also find the voice science literature fascinating and enjoy the opportunity to apply that scientific evidence in my voice lessons and performances. Full disclosure: if you go to the voicescience.org website you will find some sight reading exercises I’ve written since voicescience.org is owned by one of my sons. (proud mamma moment)
Will I ever be an operatic soloist or a famous pop star? No, but that is not really my aspiration. Even if it would be possible I’m unwilling to put in the time, money, and energy to try to break into those careers. When I was younger I wanted to be a professional backup singer or studio musician, but even then I wasn’t willing to put in the work. Now, “at my age,” my priorities have also changed. Although the literature suggests that musical activities can enhance brain health, my singing, and my voice lessons, are simply for pleasure. That is enough for me.
Are you thinking that you are too old to learn something new? I’d love to hear about it.