Recommended Resources for Voice Students
After 36+ years of teaching, I've found certain tools and products that consistently help my students improve. These are my personal recommendations for equipment, books, and supplies that support your vocal journey.
Protect Your Voice This Winter
Minnesota winters can be tough on your voice. These products help keep your vocal cords healthy during cold and flu season.
Traditional Medicinals Throat Coat Tea
Herbal tea specially formulated to soothe and support throat health.
Why Mary Recommends:
This herbal tea is a favorite among professional singers. I keep it in my studio and recommend it to all my students, especially during cold season.
- ✓Soothes throat naturally
- ✓Caffeine-free
- ✓Organic ingredients
Mary's Top Picks
These are the products I personally use in my studio and recommend most often to students.
Blue Yeti USB Microphone
Professional USB microphone perfect for recording practice sessions and online lessons.
Why Mary Recommends:
This is the microphone I suggest to all my beginning students. It's plug-and-play, sounds professional, and works great for both practice recording and online lessons.
- ✓Professional sound quality
- ✓Plug-and-play USB connection
- ✓Multiple recording patterns
The Vocal Athlete by Wendy LeBorgne
Comprehensive guide to vocal training with a scientific approach.
Why Mary Recommends:
This book takes a scientific approach to vocal training. It's perfect for students who want to understand the 'why' behind the techniques we practice.
- ✓Vocal anatomy and physiology
- ✓Injury prevention strategies
- ✓Performance preparation
Korg TM-60 Tuner & Metronome
Combination tuner and metronome for accurate practice.
Why Mary Recommends:
Every singer needs a reliable tuner and metronome. This combination device is what I use in my studio.
- ✓Accurate chromatic tuner
- ✓Wide tempo range
- ✓Large, easy-to-read display
Browse by Category
Recording Equipment
Microphones, interfaces, and accessories for recording practice sessions
Learning Materials
Books, sheet music, and educational resources
Vocal Health
Products to maintain and protect your voice
Practice Tools
Metronomes, tuners, and practice aids
Performance Gear
Microphones and equipment for live performance
Recording Equipment
Microphones, interfaces, and accessories for recording practice sessions
Blue Yeti USB Microphone
Professional USB microphone perfect for recording practice sessions and online lessons.
Why Mary Recommends:
This is the microphone I suggest to all my beginning students. It's plug-and-play, sounds professional, and works great for both practice recording and online lessons.
- ✓Professional sound quality
- ✓Plug-and-play USB connection
- ✓Multiple recording patterns
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Studio-quality USB condenser microphone with professional features.
Why Mary Recommends:
When students are ready to invest in higher quality, this is my go-to recommendation. The sound quality is exceptional for the price.
- ✓Studio-quality sound
- ✓Built-in headphone jack
- ✓Mix control for monitoring
Professional Pop Filter
Dual-layer pop filter reduces plosives and improves recording quality.
Why Mary Recommends:
Essential for clean recordings. This simple addition makes a huge difference in sound quality.
- ✓Dual-layer mesh screen
- ✓Flexible gooseneck
- ✓Universal clamp
Learning Materials
Books, sheet music, and educational resources
The Vocal Athlete by Wendy LeBorgne
Comprehensive guide to vocal training with a scientific approach.
Why Mary Recommends:
This book takes a scientific approach to vocal training. It's perfect for students who want to understand the 'why' behind the techniques we practice.
- ✓Vocal anatomy and physiology
- ✓Injury prevention strategies
- ✓Performance preparation
Singing For Dummies (3rd Edition)
Beginner-friendly guide to developing your singing voice.
Why Mary Recommends:
A great starting point for beginners. It breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand lessons.
- ✓Step-by-step exercises
- ✓Breathing techniques
- ✓Vocal health tips
Music Staff Notebook
Professional music manuscript paper for notes and compositions.
Why Mary Recommends:
I encourage all my students to keep a practice journal. This notebook is perfect for tracking progress and writing notes.
- ✓100 pages of staff paper
- ✓Durable cover
- ✓Perfect bound
Vocal Health
Products to maintain and protect your voice
Traditional Medicinals Throat Coat Tea
Herbal tea specially formulated to soothe and support throat health.
Why Mary Recommends:
This herbal tea is a favorite among professional singers. I keep it in my studio and recommend it to all my students, especially during cold season.
- ✓Soothes throat naturally
- ✓Caffeine-free
- ✓Organic ingredients
Cool Mist Humidifier
Ultrasonic humidifier maintains optimal humidity for vocal health.
Why Mary Recommends:
Proper humidity is crucial for vocal health, especially in Minnesota winters. This humidifier runs quietly and keeps your practice space at the ideal moisture level.
- ✓Whisper-quiet operation
- ✓Adjustable mist levels
- ✓Auto shut-off
Insulated Water Bottle (32oz)
Keep water cold for hours during practice and lessons.
Why Mary Recommends:
Hydration is essential for vocal health. I recommend keeping water nearby during all practice sessions.
- ✓Keeps drinks cold 24+ hours
- ✓BPA-free stainless steel
- ✓Leak-proof lid
Practice Tools
Metronomes, tuners, and practice aids
Korg TM-60 Tuner & Metronome
Combination tuner and metronome for accurate practice.
Why Mary Recommends:
Every singer needs a reliable tuner and metronome. This combination device is what I use in my studio.
- ✓Accurate chromatic tuner
- ✓Wide tempo range
- ✓Large, easy-to-read display
Portable Folding Music Stand
Sturdy, adjustable music stand for practice and performance.
Why Mary Recommends:
Good posture is essential for singing. A proper music stand helps you maintain correct alignment while reading music.
- ✓Adjustable height
- ✓Folds for easy storage
- ✓Sturdy metal construction
Performance Gear
Microphones and equipment for live performance
Shure SM58 Vocal Microphone
Industry-standard dynamic microphone for live performance.
Why Mary Recommends:
This is the industry standard for live performance. Nearly indestructible and sounds great on every voice.
- ✓Professional sound quality
- ✓Extremely durable
- ✓Built-in pop filter
Not Sure What You Need?
Every student's needs are different. In our lessons, I can recommend specific products based on your current skill level, goals, budget, and practice environment.
Why I Recommend These Products
Personally Tested
I've used these products in my studio or recommended them to students with great results.
Value for Money
These products offer the best combination of quality and affordability for voice students.
Student-Approved
My students have used these products and reported positive experiences and improvements.
Purpose-Driven
Each recommendation serves a specific purpose in your vocal development journey.
Student Success Stories
Real results from students who invested in the right tools for their vocal journey.
"Recording myself with the Blue Yeti was a game-changer. I could finally hear what Mary was talking about!"
Result:
Improved pitch accuracy by 40% in 3 months by reviewing her own recordings
"I drink this before every lesson now. My voice feels so much more ready to sing."
Result:
Reduced vocal fatigue and extended practice sessions from 20 to 45 minutes
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Have questions about any of these products? Contact me and I'll be happy to help you choose what's right for your needs.