Can Anyone Learn To Sing?

Updated 10/8/2024

By Camille van Niekerk

If you've ever asked "Can anyone learn to sing?" you've probably heard that you need "natural talent."

Despite what you may have been told: yes, anyone can learn to sing.

Singing is just like any skill; it takes dedication and persistence, but anyone can put in the time!

Let’s talk about why anyone can learn how to sing.

Naturally Gifted?

People think singing is an inherent ability, something you need to be born with.

Singing is like anything; though some people might be more inclined to have a nack for singing.

You’ll often hear phrases like “Oh no, I can’t sing!” or “She can really sing!”

But think about applying that same mentality to another skill, and the logic begins to fall apart.

Would you say you need to be born with a gift to play soccer?

Of course not.

Learning to sing is a physical and mental skill, more similar to sports than most people recognize.

Any like with any sport, in order to learn how to sing you'll need lots and lots of singing practice.

Plenty of vocal warmups, singing techniques, singing training, and some real-world experience will take anyone from knowing nothing to being able to sing rather well.

Also like sports, some people will have advantages in playing that specific sport or position.

Are you tall?

You have an advantage when learning and playing basketball.

Are you light, with muscular shoulders?

You have an advantage in rock climbing and gymnastics.

Can Anyone Learn How To Sing?

When people ask the question, “can anyone learn to sing?”, there are often two more questions they’re not asking:

First: “Is learning to sing going to be a waste of time for me?”

My answer for that is: “not if you enjoy it!”

I don’t practice yoga because I’m assured that I’ll be a “great yogi” some day.

I practice because I enjoy it, it’s good for my body, and it’s inherently fulfilling to challenge myself and make progress.

Treat singing the same way, because like most things in life, the journey matters far more than the destination.

Improving your singing skills is such a reward on it's own!

Second: “Can anyone learn to sing well?”

Most people might agree that the basics of singing can be learned; but what they want to know is whether or not their voice can actually sound good?

My answer for that is: your voice can sound objectively better than it currently does.

And the only way to find out how to be a better singer is to put in the time and practice.

Again, treat singing like another hobby or sport.

Can I guarantee you’ll be able to do the splits (or not) after seeing you stretch one time?

No.

Can I predict exactly how much your voice will grow and develop after hearing you sing once?

Again, no.

The real question becomes: do you think you’ll enjoy learning how to improve your singing voice?

Are you willing to try?

Singing Advantages

Of course there are advantages for having more of an aptitude for singing.

Those include:

Anatomy: the size and shape of your vocal folds and vocal tract.

Early Exposure: how much music (and singing specifically) was part of your childhood.

Natural Interest: how excited and intrinsically motivated you are to sing.

People with these advantages working in their favor are more likely to experience early success singing, which encourages them to continue through their lives.

Those same people might receive singing training at an early age, sing at church, or join a choir.

They may continue singing as a hobby over the years.

All of that adds up to an incredible amount of experience.

So if you’re a brand-new singer, it’s unfair to compare yourself to someone who’s been singing their whole life.

These are the people we label “natural singers” or “talented people.”

But remember: it’s not talent you’re comparing at this point; it’s years of experience.

You don’t have control over your anatomy or early exposure to singing.

You do have control over what you do now.

Check out 30 Day Singer for a detailed step-by-step curriculum that will teach you how to sing better within 30 days.

FAQ

Can you learn to sing or is it natural?

Singing can definitely be learned! While some people may have a natural ability, almost anyone can improve their singing with practice and the right techniques.

Can you actually teach yourself to sing?

Yes, you can teach yourself to sing! With online tutorials, apps, and regular practice, many people learn the basics on their own, though working with a coach can speed up progress.

Is it possible to learn to sing if you can't?

Absolutely! Even if you feel like you can’t sing, with training and persistence, most people can develop their singing voice. It’s about building muscle memory and improving pitch control.

Can I learn to sing if I have no talent?

Yes, you can! Singing is like any other skill—it takes time and practice. "Talent" helps, but dedication and good technique can help you become a better singer.

Can a bad voice learn to sing?

A "bad" voice can definitely improve! Often, what people think is a bad voice just needs practice, vocal exercises, and confidence to sound much better.

Can a non-singer become a singer?

Yes, a non-singer can absolutely become a singer. With the right mindset and training, anyone can develop their voice and learn to sing at a decent level.

Can a poor person become a singer?

Yes, becoming a singer isn’t dependent on money. There are affordable ways to learn, from free resources online to budget-friendly lessons. Your passion and commitment matter more.

Can I sing with no experience?

You can definitely start singing with no experience! Everyone has to start somewhere, and the more you practice, the more comfortable and skilled you’ll get.

Can a shy person be a singer?

Yes, shy people can be great singers. Many performers are shy offstage but come alive when they sing. Singing can even help build confidence over time.

Are quiet people good singers?

Quiet people can be amazing singers! Singing isn’t about how loud you are in conversation—it’s about technique, control, and expression, all of which quiet people can excel at.