This feature is a question-and-answer session with a new Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 168th installment visiting with Jerry Martin, founder and vocal coach for Martin’s Vocal Academy, which specializes in voice and artist development by teaching the student from the ground up and giving them the rock-solid foundation needed as a singer and entertainer.
Describe more about the Vocal Academy.
We offer In-person and Online private lessons, group lessons, our MVA Vocal Workshop, Stage Preparation Coaching, Audition Preparation Coaching, Artist Development Mentoring which dives deep into the workings behind the scenes in their own music business, Songwriting collaboration, and a special program we call the Recording Studio Experience.
With over 28 years of experience as an entertainer, I saw the need to share my experience and knowledge with aspiring singers and entertainers who are looking to be successful and get ahead in the music industry. I am passionate about helping others get to the next level and open up their full potential. Whether it is singing, acting, stage work, or song writing, we help them reach their goals and better their skills.
How did you get started?
I came from a very musical family. I was onstage at the age of two singing as my mom and dad toured. I grew up singing in church and always had a passion to sing professionally. That day came in 1992 with my first ever band and I’ve never looked back. I toured all over the United States. I have had 13 No. 1 songs, three No. 1 debut albums, awarded the Ambassador of Goodwill from my home state of North Carolina and inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2000.
What is your teaching style?
My teaching style is relaxed and easy to understand which makes my students respond quickly to what is being taught. They also have the freedom to choose what they want to sing rather than someone else choosing for them. The whole experience is fun and they learn a lot. When their time is up for that lesson, they still want to stay which says we are doing something right!
What do you enjoy about teaching music?
I love working with all the different singers and entertainers we have. No matter what level they are currently at, they always strive to get better and I can see their hard work paying off. I enjoy the creative process with the students as well. We get to do a lot of projects together and seeing them learn something new and get excited about what they have just created is so rewarding to me. I love getting out and meeting new people in our community as well. I love our city and want to be more involved in helping it grow. We can always help lift up each other in the friendships we’ve made and in each other’s businesses. I’m a huge advocate of this and always try to help elevate others.