What are our real motivations as singers?

Are they selfish, altruistic or both?

WHY do we sing?

Having worked with hundreds of singers over the last 11 years, I've had the opportunity to ask a lot of vocalists why they sing. And what I've discovered is fascinating.

It does differ depending on whether you're a performing singer or a participatory singer. Or if you just sing purely for yourself. And there's a lot of overlap.

Have a look at the table below, where I lay out my findings.

And bear in mind the list of reasons isn't exhaustive.

That's a lot of reasons, isn't it?

It's interesting that almost every reason why, is actually a benefit of some kind. And what's funny, in the context of my original question, is that even the selfish reasons can be beneficial to others.

Look at the 'selfish' list.

If you're around someone who's feeling or experiencing some of those things, it would have a pretty positive effect on you too, wouldn't it? It would create a good vibe. And imagine being around a whole group of people feeling like that. Well, it just creates so much beauty and good energy in the world.

That's why singing, and teaching singing, is so fulfilling. As a singer, you become a happier and more positive person because of all the benefits listed.

And it’s incredibly rewarding for me, to help you discover the full potential of your voice and access those benefits.

You could say that the selfish motivations unique to performers, ( eg,’ be admired’) are less beneficial to others. That's true. But there's plenty of performer-only altruistic reasons as well.

I think it's important to realise that we almost all have some selfish, and some altruistic reasons for singing, (and for a lot of different things we do in life), and that's fine.

Sometimes it's the selfish reasons that really drive us to take action and actually do stuff.

And often it's the altruistic reasons that give us a satisfying, higher sense of purpose. Making a contribution to the world can give our lives a sense of meaning.

Would you agree?

And are there any reasons I've missed out? Let me know in the comments below, if you can think of any.

So keep on singing! ... for yourself, for your community, for your audiences, for the world!

And if you'd like my support to develop your skills, talent and confidence, feel free to book in for a Singing Strengths Discovery Session.