A Holistic Approach to Teaching Vocal Coaching With Yu Hin Bryan Chan
A Holistic Approach to Teaching Vocal Coaching With Yu Hin Bryan Chan
In the cultured musical world, where ideas, thoughts and accords are ever evolving, a New York City-based vocal coach and accomplished musical theater performer, Chan has carved a unique name for himself. By blending traditional vocal techniques with comprehensive teaching methods he has created a unique path to helping others find their voice. His quest from a young choir member to a revered educator applies not just his personal growth but also his commitment to helping others achieve their dreams and aspirations.
Chan’s musical odyssey began at the tender age of five when his mother, with the hopes of removing him out of his social shell, enlisted him in choir. This early introduction to music was more than just an extracurricular activity; it was the spark that ignited Chan’s lifelong passion for the art of singing. As time went by, as he performed with the Diocesan School Boys Choir and later adopted the role of chairman, he began to understand not only his voice but also how to nurture it in others.
His academic inquiries further refined his skills and understanding of vocal performance. At the University of Michigan, where he majored in vocal fundamentals, Chan dived deep into the mechanics and instrumentals of singing. This knowledge was expanded upon at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, where he received his MFA in Musical Theater. These structured years were vital in shaping Chan’s holistic approach to vocal coaching, a method inspired by Janice Chapman’s comprehensive techniques.
An important moment in Chan’s career came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he took a gap year to organize his thoughts and sort out his future endeavours. He arrived back in Hong Kong and spent much of his time at SeanyMac Studios as a pupil of Sean Oliver. It was at SeanyMac Studios, where Chan first started to adapt his teaching skills, and comprehend how to reach and educate others. Chan states two events that changed his perspective on teaching and permeated him with a passion that lives on today.
“The first event was when my teacher and mentor, Sean Oliver, asked me to help teach a student who he was having trouble getting through to,” Chan remembers feeling unsure, “if my own teacher can’t help him, how can I?” However, success in this process helped to drive him on further. Discussing the second occurrence, Chan says, “one day, I arrived for training as usual, and Sean suggested we switch roles, and I teach him.” This was a real surprise to him and filled him with nerves and a shy modesty. Putting aside those feelings, Chan delved right in and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. These educational experiences have helped to motivate him and his teaching techniques to this day.
Chan’s ideology centers around the notion that while not everyone can mimic Bruno Mars’ high vocal ranges, every unique individual can find their true voice with proper guidance and skill. Once their voice is properly adapted, there are some modifications that can be made for each distinct and associated style. In this manner, this belief is established in a comprehensive input that vocal training is not a varied approach but should be arranged to each student’s unique capabilities and talents.
Although his success and acquisition of knowledge, Chan remains humble and flexible, an integral component for any educator. Chan is aware that learning is an ongoing process, saying “I have never figured it all out,” which keeps him firmly rooted with healthy relationships to his students. He proclaims that sentiment by saying “Humility is key and I bring that to my students as well. Teaching them has a lasting impact on me.”
His adaptive propositions vary including old Italian pedagogues known for their operatic styles as well as contemporary voices like Ken Wilson and Ken Bozeman who promote newer forms of vocal conditioning. Chan also states Bruno Mars’ incredible voice and performances as well as Daniel Cesar’s enticing singing as two musical idols of his. This diversity in influences ensures that Chan’s teaching remains dynamic, relevant, and deeply enriching for students across genres.
Yu Hin Bryan Chan is more reputable than just a vocal coach; he is a mentor whose holistic approach empowers individuals to explore their full potential without limits. Through innovation, patience, and self-constructed care, Chan continues to influence the music world one by one at a time. Helping others find their melody within the vast symphony of life’s experiences.
Chan’s dedication goes beyond mere technical training; he strives to instill confidence and self-awareness in his students, qualities essential for any artist. His website (www.chanyuhinbryan.com/) serves as a testament to this mission, offering insights into his methodology along with credits from his many onstage performances
