Hollywood’s biggest stars don’t just rely on natural talent—they have expert coaches helping them refine their craft. One such powerhouse in the industry is Eric Vetro, the renowned vocal coach who has worked with A-list celebrities, including Ariana Grande, Timothée Chalamet, Austin Butler, and Angelina Jolie. His expertise has played a pivotal role in shaping performances that have captivated audiences and even led to Oscar nominations.
Who Is Eric Vetro?
Eric Vetro is Hollywood’s most sought-after vocal coach, working with actors and singers to perfect their voices for roles that demand top-tier musical performances. His impressive clientele includes stars like Renée Zellweger (Judy), Emma Stone (La La Land), and Jonathan Bailey (Wicked).
With years of experience, Vetro has mastered the art of helping actors train their voices to match their characters, ensuring authenticity and emotional depth in their performances. His ability to transform an actor’s voice has made him an indispensable asset in the entertainment industry.
Eric Vetro’s Influence on Ariana Grande’s Performance in Wicked
A Lifetime of Training with Grande
Ariana Grande has been under Vetro’s guidance since she was 13 years old. Despite her extensive experience as a pop icon, her transition to Broadway-style singing for Wicked required rigorous training.
How Vetro Prepared Grande for Wicked
Grande’s preparation involved intense, five-day-a-week rehearsals for three months before even auditioning for the role of Glinda the Good Witch. Unlike her pop career, where her vocal runs and breathy tone shine, Wicked demanded an operatic and theatrical style, requiring Vetro’s expertise to reshape her voice for the role.
According to Vetro, Grande possesses an innate vocal ability, effortlessly hitting high notes. However, he ensured she had full command over her vocal techniques so she could focus on acting and comedic timing, elements that surprised many audiences.
Comparisons to Judy Garland
Vetro has often compared Grande to Judy Garland, noting her extraordinary vocal range and pitch accuracy. While Grande remains humble about this comparison, Vetro firmly believes she is this generation’s Garland-level talent.
Timothée Chalamet’s Vocal Transformation for A Complete Unknown
From Wonka to Bob Dylan
Timothée Chalamet previously worked with Vetro on 2023’s Wonka, but stepping into the shoes of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown required an entirely different vocal approach.
Mastering Dylan’s Unique Voice
Instead of merely imitating Bob Dylan, Chalamet worked with Vetro to capture Dylan’s essence through voice control, phrasing, and cadence. Every consonant, syllable, and inflection was studied, ensuring that his performance felt authentic rather than an impression.
Interestingly, Chalamet stayed in character even during rehearsals, asking questions like: Would Bob Dylan warm up before singing? This method-acting approach, combined with Vetro’s vocal expertise, led to a standout performance that garnered critical acclaim.
The Training Process: What It Takes to Perfect a Star’s Voice
A Grueling Rehearsal Schedule
Actors working with Vetro often train between three to nine months to master their vocal performances. Since filming schedules can be unpredictable, Vetro adapts to accommodate last-minute changes.
The Science Behind Vocal Coaching
Vetro emphasizes how diet, sleep, and lifestyle choices directly affect an actor’s voice. He enforces strict vocal care routines, including:
- No fragrant flowers or candles in dressing rooms (to prevent vocal strain)
- Using humidifiers to keep airways moist
- Avoiding loud cheering at events to prevent vocal fatigue
- Diet modifications to avoid foods that irritate the throat
This level of discipline ensures actors maintain their vocal stamina throughout demanding filming schedules.
Expanding Beyond Hollywood: Vetro’s BBC Maestro Course
Recognizing the global demand for vocal training, Vetro partnered with BBC Maestro to launch an online vocal course. This program offers bite-sized lessons covering:
- Warm-up techniques
- Expanding vocal range
- Singing in tune
- Strengthening vocal cords
For aspiring singers or those too shy to take in-person lessons, Vetro’s Sing Like the Stars course provides an exclusive opportunity to learn from Hollywood’s best vocal coach.
