In Kenya’s vibrant music industry, vocal coaches play a crucial role in shaping the careers of aspiring and established musicians. A vocal coach, or voice coach, helps singers refine their technique, care for their voice, and develop their unique sound. While many musicians overlook the importance of vocal coaching, top artists such as Sauti Sol, Bahati, Nyashinski, Wahu, and Elani have credited voice coaches for their exceptional vocal performance.
Whether you’re an aspiring singer or an established musician looking to improve, working with a voice coach can help elevate your career. Here’s a list of the top voice coaches in Kenya:
1. Lydia Ndwiga
Lydia Ndwiga is one of the most sought-after voice coaches in Kenya. She has worked with prominent musicians like Sauti Sol, Bahati, Nyashinski, Wahu, and Elani. Her expertise extends beyond coaching; Lydia also provides background vocals for movies and songs. With a diverse portfolio that includes working with artists like Mbuvi, Band Beca, Pascal Tokodi, and Nasizu Múrúme, she has firmly established herself as a leading voice coach in the country.
2. Filah Tuju
Filah Tuju, a multi-talented artist, is a composer, arranger, producer, singer-songwriter, and voice coach. He was a member of the celebrated music group Pentharmony, which won awards like the Kisima Award in 2008 and the Chaguo La Teeniez Award in 2009. Today, Filah is the founder of Redfourth Music Academy, where he continues to train choirs for schools like Statehouse Girls and UpperHill High. His academy has produced top-tier singers who continue to impact the Kenyan music scene.
3. Maryann Harrison
Maryann Harrison is a music director, songwriter, composer, and an experienced voice coach. As a performer, she brings a wealth of experience to her vocal coaching. Maryann also counsels young people on social, psychological, and emotional issues, offering holistic support to her students. Her coaching goes beyond just vocal training, helping singers build confidence, coordinate vocals with instrumentals, and enhance their overall musical abilities.
4. Melody House
Melody House is a Nairobi-based recording studio, production company, and music school that offers a wide range of services, including media production, education, and career development. The school provides practical training in piano, guitar, voice, songwriting, DJing, and sound engineering. Their experienced vocal coaches work with students to fine-tune their voices and enhance their musical talent. Melody House is an excellent option for aspiring musicians looking for comprehensive vocal training.
5. Kamata School of Music
Kamata School of Music is a leading institution offering lessons in various musical instruments such as guitar, violin, saxophone, drums, and piano, along with vocal coaching. Kamata’s vocal coaching lessons focus on effective singing techniques, vocal texture, unique sound development, and building confidence. The school’s holistic approach to music education makes it a top choice for anyone looking to improve their vocal skills.
6. The Invisible Crown Music
At The Invisible Crown Music, students undergo an intricate vocal coaching program that focuses on perfecting their singing art. The program includes lessons on voice registration, tone quality, intonation, rhythm, and performance techniques. Their unique approach also includes training in facial expressions, stage presence, and breath control. This ensures that students leave the program with a comprehensive understanding of both vocal and performance skills.
7. Natalie Lukkenaer
Natalie Lukkenaer is a renowned voice coach and music business professional who is also the founder and director of Sauti Academy, an artist development program under the Penya Africa umbrella. Through her academy, Natalie has nurtured some of Kenya’s most celebrated musicians, including Bahati, H_art the Band, Elani, Willy Paul, and Phy. Her focus on developing a singer’s full potential, from vocal technique to career development, has made her a key figure in the Kenyan music industry.
8. Sauti Academy
Founded in 2010 by Natalie Lukkenaer, Sauti Academy has grown into one of Kenya’s premier music training institutions. The academy focuses on nurturing and developing musical talent through vocal training, songwriting, and performance coaching. With a track record of producing top artists like Bahati, Elani, Prisca Ojwang, and Phy, Sauti Academy is a powerhouse for developing vocal talent in Kenya.
Vocal coaching is an essential aspect of a singer’s journey, whether they are just starting out or looking to fine-tune their skills. The top voice coaches and music schools in Kenya offer invaluable expertise and guidance to help musicians achieve their full potential. By working with professionals like Lydia Ndwiga, Filah Tuju, and Maryann Harrison, or institutions like Melody House and Sauti Academy, aspiring singers can build a solid foundation for a successful music career.
Investing in your vocal skills with the help of these experts will ensure that your voice becomes a powerful tool in your musical arsenal. Whether you’re a budding talent or an established artist, working with a top voice coach in Kenya is the key to elevating your performance.
