4 answers
Sharon’s Answer
I'm from New York City, so I'm familiar with what's available. First, as regards your education. There are three major conservatories in NYC: the Juilliard School, the Manhattan School of Music, and the Mannes College of Music. All three require auditions, all focus on classical (some have musical theater tracks), and all three have websites which will give you the particulars as to their application requirements. Also, Queens College, which is part of the City University of New York (CUNY), has an excellent music program. That's where I got my BA.Mus, and years later I was still appreciating the comprehensive music education I was given. Brooklyn College (CUNY) also has a good music program. They are certainly cheaper than the conservatories, and will offer you a more diverse choice of classes. You will make contacts through your teachers and fellow students.
As far as singing experience is concerned, there are many organizations for both aspiring professionals and pros. Here you will have to do a bit of research because I don't know what kind of music you want to sing: classical, Broadway, pop, choral, opera. Go to https://www.google.com/#q=singing+opportunities+in+new+york+city to see a representative list of various opportunities for study and work. Look for work as a church singer (and if you have the experience, temple choirs). This will give you more experience, some money, and, again, contacts.
You will need a voice teacher. If you go to one of the music programs listed above, your teacher will almost certainly be a member of the faculty at the school. If you are not taking that route, I'd call the voice departments of the conservatories (and Queens College), tell them you are new to New York, and can they recommend a teacher for whatever kind of music you wish to do. I'd call all three conservatories and the CUNY schools to get as many recommendations as you can. Then you will set up sample lessons with as many of them as you wish, and make a decision based on the samples. WARNING: voice teachers, especially good ones, ESPECIALLY in NYC, are not cheap. $150-$200/lesson wouldn't be unusual; more if the teacher is famous, or has famous students. I haven't lived and worked in NYC for some years (I'm in LA), so cost would be something to ask the teachers you audition. Also, one of the things to look for in a teacher is that s/he has current contacts in the industry, and is familiar with contests and student programs.
I urge you not to put this dream on hold. New York is an education in itself. It's exciting, diverse, inspirational...and expensive. There's no way around that. If there's any other way I can help, please don't hesitate to contact me. Good luck! www.baystein.com.
Candace’s Answer
If you aren't already taking voice lessons, you should consider it. You could do this at your school or ask someone you trust for names of good teachers. Also consider checking online for summer music camps or programs being held in New York City. Some of these programs offer scholarships. This would give you the opportunity to experience New York and meet people who are performing in New York and ask them questions. Good luck and keep living your dreams!
Jacob’s Answer
do you mean program to help be a better singer? In which case I'm not sure. I give lessons out here in austin and Im about to do it through online, maybe if your interested I can coach you through online face to face chats. If you don't have a cheap electric piano get one, it will help you tremendously. Also youtube has some great lessons to look at, but its important to have a coach at some point to evaluate bad habits that a youtube instructor wouldn't see. Im positive New York has a ton of private vocal coaches I would look some up. Private Instructors is the best way to become a better singer.
Betty Joyce’s Answer
If you are really serious about singing, I suggest that you check out some of the colleges in New York that have a very good Music Department. Getting the proper training is very important in becoming successful in any profession. I recommend the Juilliard School in New York. They have a renowned music department with a distinguished faculty that include international renowned soloists, chamber and orchestral musicians as well as leading pedagogues and scholars. Among them are recipients of Pulitzer Prices, Grammy and Academy Awards. But if you cannot go to college, I suggest that you take some private singing lessons from a vocal coach who majored in music and teaches voice in a college, teaches music in a high school or is the choir director of a church that has a good choir. If you play the piano, this is a big plus, especially when practicing your songs and vocal exercises. Be aware that singing is "Hard Work", although, it may look easy to the audience. Believe me, a lot is involved in the development of a beautiful resonated singing voice. Music theory is very important. Good breathing and vocal techniques, enunciation (pronouncing words and syllables), intonation (singing in tune, matching pitches) rhythm, interpretation, etc. will help you develop into a very good singer. If you are willing to put in the "Hard Work", go for it. Music is a very rewarding profession, it is a way to have Fun and make Money at the same. "Follow Your Heart, Pursue Your Dreams" That's what I Did. Musically Yours, Betty Howard, Pandora.com, Jango.com, Spotify.com, You Tube.com. http://www.betty-howard.com