3 answers
Sama
Student
Saudi Arabia
12
Questions
Asked
3065 views
How can I balance learning an instrument while also focusing on vocal training for K-pop auditions?
What are some ways to make my lyrics sound more unique without losing the emotional connection?
What are some ways to make my lyrics sound more unique without losing the emotional connection?
3 answers
Joe L.
Program Manager
120
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Balancing learning an instrument and vocal training for K-pop auditions requires good time management and a structured approach. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prioritize Your Goals
If vocals are your main focus, dedicate more time to vocal training while using the instrument as a supporting skill.
If you want to showcase both equally, distribute your time evenly between the two.
2. Create a Balanced Practice Schedule
Daily Routine Example:
Vocal Warm-ups (15–20 min) – Start with scales, breathing exercises, and resonance work.
Instrument Practice (30–45 min) – Work on technique, chords, and songs.
Vocal Training (45 min – 1 hour) – Focus on pitch, tone, and performance skills.
Combine Both (30 min) – Sing while playing to improve multitasking and stage presence.
3. Choose an Instrument That Enhances Your Vocals
Piano or guitar are great choices since they help with pitch accuracy and musicality.
If you’re learning guitar, focus on basic chords to accompany your singing.
If you’re learning piano, work on playing melodies or chord progressions for vocal practice.
4. Integrate Both for Performance Skills
Practice singing while playing the instrument to get comfortable doing both at the same time.
Record yourself to analyze areas for improvement.
5. Rest & Take Care of Your Voice
Avoid overtraining; balance practice with vocal rest.
Stay hydrated and do gentle stretching exercises to relax your body.
1. Prioritize Your Goals
If vocals are your main focus, dedicate more time to vocal training while using the instrument as a supporting skill.
If you want to showcase both equally, distribute your time evenly between the two.
2. Create a Balanced Practice Schedule
Daily Routine Example:
Vocal Warm-ups (15–20 min) – Start with scales, breathing exercises, and resonance work.
Instrument Practice (30–45 min) – Work on technique, chords, and songs.
Vocal Training (45 min – 1 hour) – Focus on pitch, tone, and performance skills.
Combine Both (30 min) – Sing while playing to improve multitasking and stage presence.
3. Choose an Instrument That Enhances Your Vocals
Piano or guitar are great choices since they help with pitch accuracy and musicality.
If you’re learning guitar, focus on basic chords to accompany your singing.
If you’re learning piano, work on playing melodies or chord progressions for vocal practice.
4. Integrate Both for Performance Skills
Practice singing while playing the instrument to get comfortable doing both at the same time.
Record yourself to analyze areas for improvement.
5. Rest & Take Care of Your Voice
Avoid overtraining; balance practice with vocal rest.
Stay hydrated and do gentle stretching exercises to relax your body.
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Mina
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Sama!
First off, huge respect to you for taking on both vocal training and learning an instrument—it's not easy, but it’s definitely worth it. I also want to shout out Tony and Joe for their great advice! Tony’s approach to balancing time and learning from different genres is a solid way to build emotional depth in your singing, and Joe’s structured practice breakdown is an excellent mapping way for growth.😎
Now, let’s build on what they’ve said and take it even further....👀
1. Make Your Instrument Work for You, Not Against You
One mistake many singers make when learning an instrument is trying to perfect both at the same time. Instead, think of your instrument as a tool to enhance your vocals rather than as a separate skill. For example:
If you're learning piano, start by playing just the chords rather than full melodies. This lets you focus more on vocal control and emotion without getting too caught up in finger placement.
If you're learning guitar, stick to strumming patterns that match the vibe of your song before moving into complex picking techniques.
Why? Huh? Oh well, Because the goal isn’t to become a concert pianist or a lead guitarist overnight—it’s to support your voice and develop your ear for music.
2. Train Your Ears, Not Just Your Hands & Voice
Play a note on your instrument and try humming it before singing it. This improves your pitch accuracy and makes transitions between notes smoother.
Try playing a random note and singing it back without looking—this strengthens your muscle memory for pitch.
Listen to your favorite K-pop instrumentals and pick out melodies by ear. Even if you don’t play them perfectly, this helps you recognize patterns in music, which is super useful for composing later on.
3. Make Your Lyrics & Delivery Stand Out
Since you also asked about making your lyrics unique while keeping the emotional connection, here are some ideas:
Write in a conversational tone – If you listen to K-pop lyrics, they often sound like natural speech rather than overly poetic phrases. Try writing as if you were talking to someone.
Play with unexpected contrasts – A sad theme with an upbeat melody (like BLACKPINK’s “Lovesick Girls”) can make a song more dynamic.
Use storytelling techniques – Instead of saying, “I miss you,” describe a moment: “Your coffee’s cold, but I still wait by the window.”
4. Master Breath Control for Long Phrases
If you’re singing while playing, you might notice breath control becomes more challenging. Here’s a trick:
Practice singing phrases on one breath while playing simple chords.
Use diaphragmatic breathing to make your voice sound fuller without strain.
Record yourself to see where you naturally run out of breath, then adjust your phrasing.
5. Confidence Through Performance Practice is a key step!
Even if you’re practicing alone, get used to performing as if you’re on stage:
Use a mirror or camera to check your stage presence.
Sing in front of friends/family—or even strangers online (TikTok, anyone?)—to get used to the pressure.
Experiment with small performances—if you’re confident enough, try open mic nights, school performances, or live streaming.
Well, You’re training in two different areas, and that’s a huge advantage in the K-pop industry, Sama. Many idols who can play an instrument and sing gain a stronger artistic identity (think IU, Rosé from BLACKPINK, 🤔 or Young K from DAY6). Keep building your skills little by little, and don’t stress about perfection—it’s all about consistent improvement.
I believe in you, Sama! You got this! If you ever need more tips, feel free to ask. All the best girl! 🤗
What You Can Do Right Now: Record yourself singing a simple song while playing your instrument—even if it’s just basic chords! Don’t worry about perfection; just focus on getting comfortable multitasking. Pick a song you love (or a short section of it). Play only the chords (not the full melody) to keep it simple. Sing along and focus on your breath control and timing. Listen back to the recording and note where you feel strained or off-rhythm. This small step will help you build confidence and identify areas for improvement in real time! Try it now and have fun with it ofcouuurse! 😊
First off, huge respect to you for taking on both vocal training and learning an instrument—it's not easy, but it’s definitely worth it. I also want to shout out Tony and Joe for their great advice! Tony’s approach to balancing time and learning from different genres is a solid way to build emotional depth in your singing, and Joe’s structured practice breakdown is an excellent mapping way for growth.😎
Now, let’s build on what they’ve said and take it even further....👀
1. Make Your Instrument Work for You, Not Against You
One mistake many singers make when learning an instrument is trying to perfect both at the same time. Instead, think of your instrument as a tool to enhance your vocals rather than as a separate skill. For example:
If you're learning piano, start by playing just the chords rather than full melodies. This lets you focus more on vocal control and emotion without getting too caught up in finger placement.
If you're learning guitar, stick to strumming patterns that match the vibe of your song before moving into complex picking techniques.
Why? Huh? Oh well, Because the goal isn’t to become a concert pianist or a lead guitarist overnight—it’s to support your voice and develop your ear for music.
2. Train Your Ears, Not Just Your Hands & Voice
Play a note on your instrument and try humming it before singing it. This improves your pitch accuracy and makes transitions between notes smoother.
Try playing a random note and singing it back without looking—this strengthens your muscle memory for pitch.
Listen to your favorite K-pop instrumentals and pick out melodies by ear. Even if you don’t play them perfectly, this helps you recognize patterns in music, which is super useful for composing later on.
3. Make Your Lyrics & Delivery Stand Out
Since you also asked about making your lyrics unique while keeping the emotional connection, here are some ideas:
Write in a conversational tone – If you listen to K-pop lyrics, they often sound like natural speech rather than overly poetic phrases. Try writing as if you were talking to someone.
Play with unexpected contrasts – A sad theme with an upbeat melody (like BLACKPINK’s “Lovesick Girls”) can make a song more dynamic.
Use storytelling techniques – Instead of saying, “I miss you,” describe a moment: “Your coffee’s cold, but I still wait by the window.”
4. Master Breath Control for Long Phrases
If you’re singing while playing, you might notice breath control becomes more challenging. Here’s a trick:
Practice singing phrases on one breath while playing simple chords.
Use diaphragmatic breathing to make your voice sound fuller without strain.
Record yourself to see where you naturally run out of breath, then adjust your phrasing.
5. Confidence Through Performance Practice is a key step!
Even if you’re practicing alone, get used to performing as if you’re on stage:
Use a mirror or camera to check your stage presence.
Sing in front of friends/family—or even strangers online (TikTok, anyone?)—to get used to the pressure.
Experiment with small performances—if you’re confident enough, try open mic nights, school performances, or live streaming.
Well, You’re training in two different areas, and that’s a huge advantage in the K-pop industry, Sama. Many idols who can play an instrument and sing gain a stronger artistic identity (think IU, Rosé from BLACKPINK, 🤔 or Young K from DAY6). Keep building your skills little by little, and don’t stress about perfection—it’s all about consistent improvement.
I believe in you, Sama! You got this! If you ever need more tips, feel free to ask. All the best girl! 🤗
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Tony Andriamanana
Musician
6
Answers
Antananarivo, Antananarivo Province, Madagascar
Updated
Tony’s Answer
Hi Sama!
Learning an instrument and working on your singing for K-pop auditions is a big task, so great job taking it on!
For your practice schedule, try setting aside time for each activity. You could do 15-25 minutes on your instrument and then 15-25 minutes on vocals, three times a week. If that doesn't fit, you can alternate days: instrument on day 1, vocals on day 2, and so on.
As a fellow singer, I suggest learning a song from a different genre. Pick one that focuses more on emotion rather than technique. This can give you a new perspective and improve your singing skills.
This is optional and if you have a time, this may benefit you if you give it a try. The song is called "People Help the People" by Birdy.
Learning an instrument and working on your singing for K-pop auditions is a big task, so great job taking it on!
For your practice schedule, try setting aside time for each activity. You could do 15-25 minutes on your instrument and then 15-25 minutes on vocals, three times a week. If that doesn't fit, you can alternate days: instrument on day 1, vocals on day 2, and so on.
As a fellow singer, I suggest learning a song from a different genre. Pick one that focuses more on emotion rather than technique. This can give you a new perspective and improve your singing skills.
This is optional and if you have a time, this may benefit you if you give it a try. The song is called "People Help the People" by Birdy.
Thanks for the help.
Mina
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