Some fairly recent studies by apparently qualified researchers have identified certain unusual characteristics in a few people that would suggest that learning to sing may be impossible, or so difficult that they are unlikely to be interested in the attempt.

Although probably rare, there are some who simply can't recognize differences between sounds of different pitches. There are others, similarly rare, who "aint' got no rythm" and really can't dance. In a few cases reported, the individuals not only are unlikely ever to be able to sing, in the conditions studied "they can't even learn to listen" to the extent of being able to recognize and distinguish between music and street noises.

It is unlikely that persons with these conditions will ever show up at a "how to sing" session, so belief in the ability of those who do come to improve on their abilities is justified. It probably is not appropriate to assume that everybody can learn to sing or even that everybody wants to.

For those who really do want to learn how, it's possible that the specification and "giving a name" to some of the barriers may be helpful to those who find themselves attempting to help, in some cases. Individuals with those handicaps probably need very professional help.

For the "social singers" just wanting to help a few who have indicated an interest and are already able to at least "croak interestingly" those studies probably are not something to be concerned about.

Even though it appears that there really are some people who simply can't learn to sing, it is likely that anyone who recognizes and enjoys listening to music probably can learn to join the choir in appropriate situations.

For willing people of the latter kind, good teachers and skilled persons to sing with can help a lot.

John