Overview
Singers are professional performing artists who read, interpret and perform songs for their audience. They perform for live audiences onstage or for recorded sessions in the studio. Through their renditions of musical compositions, they deliver captivating performances that move their audience. Singers often expand their musical abilities by learning to play instruments, act, or dance which also increases their employment prospects in turn. Singers often specialize in particular styles of vocal music such as Carnatic, jazz, opera, pop, rock, country, folk among many others. Using their knowledge of harmony, melody, rhythm, and voice production in combination with the lyrics, singers are able to convey emotions, thoughts, and ideas in a manner that is pleasant to the ear. Depending upon their specific genre and style, they can work in a range of settings from concerts and music studios to cruise liners and theatre. These professionals often locate an agent for themselves who manages their bookings. They work closely with managers, music producers, recording label executives, and recording studio personnel.
Typical day at work
Abilities and Aptitude needed
A talent for singing is crucial for one to become a singer. Their vocal resonation, vocal range, harmonization abilities must be well developed for a singer to deliver heartrending performances for their audience. They should be well-versed in a range of vocal styles, with a creative sense of rhythm and melody to understand and perform music. They should be detail-oriented with excellent listening skills in order to identify tone and pitch. They should possess the ability to connect to their audiences through their musical performances as well as interactions with their fans. Time management skills are necessary for singers to avoid tardiness and follow recording, rehearsal, and performance schedules. Their networking abilities and interpersonal skills are essential in order to identify and secure work opportunities in the industry. This job demands patience, perseverance, and commitment to the art throughout one’s career. Creativity, self-discipline, and continued efforts towards sharpening one’s skills to stay up-to-date are necessary elements for a singer to be successful in their career.
Salary
The salary of a Singer varies widely by the degree of success they achieve and the career path they choose. Generally, popular Singers earn much more than less popular songs such as their salary ranging from Rs. 10,00,000 to Rs. 15,00,000 per movie. There is no limit for it; they can earn more than this as they gain popularity in the very industry.
Pathways
Entrance Exam
Graduation-
Visva Bharati, Birbhum (West Bengal)
Delhi University (Ramjas College)
Banaras Hindu University- BHU- UET
AR Rahman's KM Music Conservator- Diploma program of 1-2 years
University of Mumbai, Department of Music
Postgraduation-
Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata (West Bengal- Practical test for Rabindra Sangeet, Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, followed by a Written test
Banaras Hindu University- BHU- UET
AR Rahman's KM Music Conservatory
University of Mumbai, Department of Music- Audition test
Courses
Best Colleges
Industries
Booking Agents
Club Promoters
Managers
Talent Agents
Singers and Session Musicians.
internship
Career outlook
Most singers are self-employed or work as freelance artists on a contractual basis with various record labels or concert venues. Many singers go on to become voice coaches or music teachers, providing private lessons or setting up a music school. Many successful singers are also contacted for serving as a judge or consultant in singing competitions. They can choose to work as solo artists or as backup singers, background vocalists, or in musical bands, orchestras, choral groups etc. They can also lend their voice to narrations, animated features, commercial jingles, and advertisements. They perform across a range of settings such as music festivals, concerts, auditoriums, theatre productions, ceremonies, corporate events as well as on the television and radio. It is not typically a nine to five job with regular work schedules, instead singers have to devote much of their time in the day to practice and rehearsal sessions, and deliver performances in the evenings. They may be required to work during weekends and holidays as well. With the increased use of digital streaming services and downloads, skilled professional singers are now able to reach their audience more easily and are therefore in demand.