Ask First, Then Tell

Don't be afraid to ask your students what they think of a performance. Each time you practice a piece, ask them to reflect on how it sounded. I like to start by asking what they did well and if they effectively changed anything we've been focusing on in rehearsal. Then, I ask what they want to improve. Asking their opinions before I give them mine allows them to take ownership of their performance. It makes them pay attention, listening to themselves and others, while singing. It also causes them to take pride in their performance when they improve.