Whether it’s taking the stage at The Civic or just belting it out on karaoke nights in Ponsonby, the right vocal instruction can turn anyone into their own superstar. But finding the right coach isn’t the easiest task, right?

Don’t worry, we’ve done the legwork! Our team chatted with actual students, dropped in on studios, and scoped out insights on which vocal instructors are actually worth the investment.

So, if you’re ready to take on the world (or that new karaoke song, at least), here are the only private vocal lessons in Auckland to book.

1. Auckland Contemporary Singing School

Auckland Contemporary Singing School impressed us with its structured vocal programs that cater well to both adults and kids.

For adults, there’s a choice between online and in-person one-on-one lessons, which is super convenient. The 30-minute casual lessons focus on vocal technique, which we found ideal for students who want short lessons without long-term commitments.

As for kids, private lessons are available for those who have completed the Grade 3 Rockschool syllabus. 

Those who are still in Grade 3 start off in group lessons. That makes sense since it helps beginners ease in and get comfortable while learning the basics.

When we talked to students and parents, many loved her approach. They praised it for being age-appropriate and engaging, which makes learning more fun.

Apart from the vocal lessons, we also appreciate the materials downloadable as info packs. This is incredibly useful for students as refreshers before and after the lesson.

The only downside is the limited availability as they only accept a small number of students. Still, this exclusivity also means highly personalised attention, which students love.

Holistic approach to singing

I really struggled with the high notes before coming to Jorgelina! She’s coached me through so many techniques and although there is so much to learn I feel like I’ve seen lots of progress already. My confidence has grown massively since joining the group classes too and she encourages performing at every opportunity. I love that Jorgelina takes a holistic approach to singing and understands that it’s not just about sounding great, the voice also has strong connections to the body and mind. Thanks Jorgelina!

Jess Reeve-Taylor | Google Reviews 

Super knowledgeable and very engaged

Bruh. Jorgelina is an awesome singing teacher! Super knowledgable, very engaged and 100% passionate. She’s helped me a lot. Her methods and techniques feel organic and natural. She moves at your pace and is super supportive about you achieving your singing goals. Would recommend her to anyone with a vagus nerve (thats everyone btw!).

Rupert Wilson | Google Reviews 

2. Eliette’s Music Academy

Ellete’s track record is definitely a strong selling point. They currently have 35 instructors who handle over 1,000 students each week. This is across all their music programs that cater to nearly every age and kill level.

We found their singing lessons particularly strong. They’re available to both adults and kids aged over 5. The lessons focus on basic development, including vocal technique, breathing, diction, and even confidence building.

We also liked that they provide regular performance opportunities. This includes Jam Nights (in collaboration with Auckland Markets) and an annual Christmas Showcase. It’s a great advantage to showcase the training in real-world contexts. 

The only downside is that they’re slightly more expensive than other schools, given their structure. But for reputation, experience, and track record, they’re pretty unbeatable.

Teacher is very talented and patient

I love going to singing lessons. My teacher is very talented, patient and is always pushing me to achieve my best. Eliette’s Music Academy is a safe, friendly and relaxed environment. Highly recommended!!

Stephanie Travis | Google Reviews 

Eliette is always very helpful

My daughter has absolutely loved doing Keyboard and singing lessons she loves her teacher and looks forward to going every week.  Eliette is always very helpful would not hesitate to recommend!

Simon Price | Google Reviews 

3. Victoria Hollings Vocal Studio

What sets this Victoria Hollings Vocal Studio apart is their approach to lessons. Their musician development sessions cover 60 minutes of lessons that involve a wide range of training.

We find them comprehensive. Each lesson covers harmony, songwriting, self-accompaniment, and even acting through song.

Our team especially loved her free discovery calls. These are no-pressure introductions that help students try the studio before committing. Not a lot of vocal studios in Auckland offer this, so it’s definitely a major plus.

Her overall attitude is a winning suit too. In fact, students we spoke with loved calling the instructor “a genius,” highlighted by her warm and affirming energy.

Like most solo-led studios though, they also have limited availability, especially during the summer months. If you’re looking for a weekly time slot, you need to book as soon as you can to secure it.

Customises lessons to cater to voice

An awesome instructor. Victoria makes you feel comfortable. She customises her lessons that cater to you and your voice. By the fourth lesson, I could already tell a major improvement in my singing. Definitely recommend!

Carlos Muller | Google Reviews 

Great vocal coach and human being

Victoria is a great vocal coach and human being. She tailors lessons to what her students want to acheive, and is very supportive throughout the journey. I was a complete beginner who felt both heard and encouraged over the course of my lessons. I recommend her to anyone who enjoys a holistic approach to learning and is a fan of pet birds 🙂

Anadil Sameen | Google Reviews 

4. Clare Martin Singing Teacher

Located in a quiet, bush-clad valley in Birkdale, Claire’s studio provides the perfect atmosphere for focused learning. The peaceful setting alone is ideal for a calm, constructive environment – totally different from other studios on this list.

However, this may also prove to be a challenge to those who live in central Auckland, as it can be hard to reach.

Claire works with students of all levels and styles. To be specific, she covers both contemporary and classical genres and accommodates completed beginners and working professionals.

We were impressed by their structured yet flexible lesson format, which runs for up to an hour in a private setting. What’s even better is the outcomes – students told us that they noticed improvements within just 6 lessons.

Our team also agrees that the digital records of vocal exercises were extremely helpful for at-home practice. Additionally, her rates are competitive, with discounted rates for those who book by term.

Sensitive and gifted musician

You won’t find better than Clare Martin as a singing teacher. She is a sensitive and gifted musician, a patient and encouraging nurturer of the talent that lies within, a holistic practitioner and a consummate professional. If you’ve had demoralising experiences in the past, Clare will restore your dignity and send you out the door with a spring in your step – stretched in a hopeful direction.

Catherine McKinlay | Google Reviews 

Highly experienced with music and vocals in all genres

Clare has so much knowledge and experience with music and vocals in all genres. I learnt and improved considerably over the 18 months I had singing lessons with her. Clare has a comfortable and quiet space/music room to learn in. She is intuitive, kind, and understanding, and I will miss my Tuesday evenings with her.

Marnie McColl | Google Reviews

5. Modern Music Learning

One of the most notable strengths of Modern Music Learning is that they only have professional musicians as vocal instructors. Due to their experience, students can freely explore various genres including blues, rock, pop, and more.

Classes are structured, which we favour, with one term-based program consisting of 10 lessons. What’s even better is that the rate starts at $350 only, with lessons lasting 30 minutes each.

While most students find the sessions short, they do bridge the gap through their online student portal. Here, the instructors host their syllabus and give students access to progress-tracking tools. 

Performances are also a key focus at this studio, and students are invited to participate in showcases around Takapuna.

Just take note that since classes aren’t flexible, they’re not ideal for those who simply want one-off lessons. The total cost can be a bit hefty when paid upfront too. 

Amazing talent for teaching and making the lesson fun

My daughter loves her singing and guitar tutor. He has an amazing talent for teaching and making the lesson fun. She has struggled with anxiety but he has helped her so much with her confidence. I highly recommend this company.

Zaneta O’Hanlon | Google Reviews 

Very professional and caring teacher

“Fantastic school and teachers, highly recommended!! My daughter started ukulele lessons with Peter a few years ago. Now she continues learning guitar lessons from Peter. Peter is a wonderful, very professional, caring teacher. he always encourages Kate to learn more and keep her passions all the time. Kate always say, “Peter is the best teacher in the world!””

Nancy | Google Reviews 

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