I've wanted to learn to sing for a while now, so that I can take a more active role in writing songs in projects. I figure it's like any instrument, and a teacher could teach me, though I have no idea if that is the case. Does anyone have any experience with this?
I've worked with singing teachers on and off for several years. I must say that it's helped immensely. Especially because if you sing incorrectly for even a short period of time, it is possible to do physical harm to yourself (vocal cords). It will only help you.
It's definitely a good idea, and I have good experience from taking lessons although I had been singing lead for 10 year prior to my first lesson. I have to say, though, that you should not pick just any teacher. If you intend to sing pop/rock/jazz etc, pick a teacher who sings that kind of music himself/herself, over one who's mostly into classical music. And always remember that if something feels bad in your throat you're doing something wrong. You should not feel anything in your throat while singing, even if you sing with a distorted voice.
+1 to this. As well, I might add, no only do you need to find a teacher that knows how to teach what you want to sing, but also a teacher that you fit well with. Teachers are people, and we don't necessarily get along with or click with all people. So it's just as important to find a teacher you "get" and who "gets you".