LESSONS | robertmellon

VOICE LESSONS

Discover Your True Voice

In order to sing one must release the sound. Not push. Not force. The essence of great singing in any realm is vulnerability. Listen to a baby cry. Hear people laugh uncontrollably. Watch a cow moo or a lion roar. Each example shows a full-body connection. It emanates from the core. From the gut. From the diaphragm. From the soul. The throat can then relax and the sound leaves the body unobstructed. It is released and free.

Francesco Lamperti reminds us: “The voice must be formed in the chest, not forced in the throat. The true singer sings with the whole body.”

Mathilde Marchesi, one of the most influential teachers of bel canto, declared: “The first condition of beautiful singing is absolute freedom of the throat.”

And the legendary Manuel García, who invented the laryngoscope to study the voice, wrote: “The true art of singing consists in the perfect emission of the voice, produced with ease, power, and beauty.”

In our work together we will uncover the steps to achieve a beautiful, full, and released sound—guided not only by modern insight but by the timeless wisdom of these masters.

Come on this journey with me to discover your voice. The time is now! Are you ready?

Robert Mellon – Baritone & Voice Teacher

Robert Mellon, internationally acclaimed operatic baritone, is a dedicated and experienced voice teacher specializing in the art of traditional classical singing. After four years on the voice faculty at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, he now serves as a Professor of Voice at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Mellon’s teaching centers on the principles of legato, breath support, release of air, and open-throat singing, guiding students toward a natural, resonant tone production rooted in healthy technique. Drawing from his extensive performance career on international stages, he helps singers access their authentic vocal identity through targeted exercises and the application of his own professional experience.

His students benefit from a studio philosophy that balances technical precision with expressive freedom, fostering confident, communicative artists ready for the modern operatic world.

Are Zoom lessons the same is in-person lessons?

Yes, absolutely! The only difference is location—you’ll be learning from the comfort of your own home. Technique, guidance, and results remain the same.

How often should I take lessons?

Consistency is key. Most students thrive with one lesson per week, which allows time for rest and practice between sessions. Some prefer two lessons a week for faster progress, while others work well with lessons every two weeks. What doesn’t work is showing up only once a month or a couple of times a year—that simply won’t build skills. The right pace is the one that balances your voice, mind, and wallet, while keeping momentum strong.

What is appoggio?

Appoggio is the Italian word for “support” and literally means “to lean.” In singing, it refers to the balance between breath pressure and muscular resistance. You “lean” the voice against a steady, energized column of air. As Lamperti said: “The voice must ride upon the breath, never separated from it.” When done well, appoggio gives you stability, power, and freedom.

How does the [u] vowel work to help my passaggio?

The [u] vowel (as in “true”) naturally opens and aligns the vocal tract. It encourages a longer, more stable resonance tube, which helps smooth the transitions in the passaggio (the “bridge” between vocal registers). García often advised practicing pure vowels to “unite” the registers—[u] is especially helpful because it promotes both head resonance and focus.

What is legato singing?

Legato means “tied together.” In singing, it is the seamless connection of notes, created by continuous breath energy and smooth vowel transitions. Every consonant must ride lightly on the breath without interrupting the stream. Marchesi put it simply: “Legato is the soul of singing.” When you sing legato, your voice flows like a ribbon—unbroken, supported, and expressive.

What is more important: repertoire or vocalises?

In the beginning, vocalises are far more important than repertoire. Repertoire is the performance of the craft—but vocalises are where you learn the craft itself. We must crawl before we walk, walk before we run, and run before we compete. To skip steps is to build on shaky ground.

Too often, modern singers are rushed into songs before they have mastered the mechanics of breath, resonance, and release. This is what cripples so many young voices today. Think of singing as a trade: no plumber learns by installing a full bathroom on day one; no electrician begins by wiring an entire house. They start by mastering tools and technique. Singing is no different.

By focusing on vocal exercises and skill base training first, you lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, powerful singing. Together we can break the pattern—building better singers with stronger training and the likelihood of longer, more successful careers.

VOICE LESSONS

Discover Your True Voice

Are Zoom lessons the same is in-person lessons?

What do I need for a Zoom lesson?

Do I need to bring anything to the lesson?

How do I know what lesson length works best?

How often should I take lessons?

What is appoggio?

What is low support for the voice?

How does the [u] vowel work to help my passaggio?

Do I control the voice or release the voice?

What is legato singing?

What is more important: repertoire or vocalises?

VOICE LESSONS

Discover Your True Voice

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Are Zoom lessons the same is in-person lessons?

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What is appoggio?

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