I want to be a professional singer

I’m currently studying in Class XI. I’m not interested in NEET or JEE. Though I’m a biology student I’m only interested in music. I love singing but I’m not a trained singer. What are the courses I need to complete to be a professional singer? Are there any colleges in India that preferably have courses in western music?
Anjali (16)

In order to become a professional singer, start with some basic music training. Also learn multiple music instruments; this will help you in identifying your style of singing. Make your demo song recordings and promote yourself online.

There are no educational requirements for singers interested in performing popular music. Formal education is more likely to be required for classical music. Still singers need extensive training and regular practice, as the qualities of a singer’s voice affect his/her ability to be successful. You must take lessons from a qualified guru. Short-term training in western music is provided by private institutes all over India.

Some good colleges are:

• Bhatkhande College of Hindustani Music, Lucknow (bhatkhandemusic.edu.in)
• Kalakshetra, Madras (www.kalakshetra.net)
• National Academy of Music, Dance & Drama (Sangeet Natak Academy), New Delhi (sangeetnatak.com)
• Prayag Sangeet Samiti, Allahabad (prayagsangeetsamiti.co.in)
• Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata (rabindrabharatiuniversity.org)
• Visva Bharati, Santiniketan (visva-bharati.com)

The music industry is always in need of innovative, creative, successful musicians to introduce different styles and various fusions in an attempt to innovate new sounds. But competition is severe and talent alone is no guarantee of success; it requires dedication and sometimes good luck. Developing contacts in the music business is as important as finding opportunities to perform. However, being able to play several types of music or sing in a variety of styles enhances the opportunity to find employment.