Topher Keene Voice Acting Lessons, Acting Lessons, And Singing Lessons In Pheonix
About
I love working with Singers, Actors, Voice Over Artists, Public Speakers, and other performers of all ages and ability levels. I've worked with dozens of "tone deaf" students to help them develop their ability to sing, and frequently train teachers in working with singers who struggle. On the other hand, I have many professional students who are professional singers and performers and work on highly advanced technique. I have helped young kids land their first lead role in a school play, and I work with professionals featured on Netflix, Nickelodeon, Hulu, Amazon, and other major networks. My VO Students range from complete beginners buying their first microphone to seasoned professionals cast in major animation projects and AAA video games.
I always focus on enjoyment in the lesson, as the best learning happens when we're having fun. I also work hard to build confidence and stage presence. I prioritize proper vocal health to avoid voice damage for all my students.
For Actors, we focus on developing stage presence, learning short monologues and scenes, building audition skills, and developing their vocal/facial/physical expression.
My Public Speaking Coaching combines the best of insights from Singing and Acting lessons to help you unlock the power of your speaking voice. I can help you with Job Interviews, School Presentations, and even major Public Keynote Speeches, or just in improving your daily conversational speaking skills.
For Voice Actors studying Voiceover, I can help with navigating the wide and complex world of VO, sharing best practices from Animation, Video Games, Narration, Audiobooks, Corporate Training VO, and other opportunities. We also discuss improving audio quality by treating your space, selecting proper hardware and software, and approaching auditions and the "business" side of VO.
Singing is one of the most vulnerable things a human can do. Learning to sing confidently makes someone feel much better about themselves and can dramatically improve self-esteem. I love seeing the smile on a singer's face when something 'clicks' and they hear their voice in a new way.
When my Acting students connect deeply with a character/role and feel themselves reaching a new level of skill through our work together it's very rewarding. Many of my students have landed their first lead roles after our work together, and seeing a student I've coached go on to a starring role on stage is always a thrilling experience.
All the work I do is done through the lens of a lifecoach/mentor. I focus on habit formation, overcoming anxiety, and developing self-confidence in every subject I teach. My students come out of a coaching session feeling more in control and less stressed about the challenge of our work together.
You can always learn more about my work at www.topherkeene.com
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first lesson is a chance to get to know each other, set goals, and see if it would be a good fit to work together.
Whether you're a total amateur who's just exploring Voice Over, Acting, Singing, or Public Speaking for the first time, or a seasoned Professional getting paid for your work, or anything in-between, I'd love to help you improve your performance and achieve your goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a quarterfinalist for the Grammy Award for Educator of the Year.
My Bachelor's is in Vocal Music Education from the University of Maine. I Also studied the Kodaly Philosophy of Music Education in my Graduate work at the New England Conservatory in Boston.
I've been featured in a variety of Film/Television/Podcast projects, including MTV.
I have over a decade of experience teaching private lessons, school choirs, church choirs, musical theatre productions, and a variety of community choirs, in addition to professional work as a singer including solos with the Boston Symphony Orchestra's Tanglewood Festival Chorus
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I discuss pricing after the Free First Lesson.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching lessons to my friends in high school 20 years ago. After studying extensively in college I went on to teach in public and charter schools while building my Private Studio. I also tutor math and standardized test/SAT prep (I took the SAT's 7 times for fun as a kid) and tested into both MENSA and the Triple 9 Society.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages and ability levels, from young children getting ready for their first performance, to nervous adults who've never been on stage before. I have many Professional touring singers, Film Actors, Voice Actors, CEOS, YouTubers, Podcasters, Comedians, and other Professionals in my Studio as well.
Whether you want lessons for yourself or for your child, and whether you're experienced or a total beginner, I'd love to help you achieve your goals and improve as a performer.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Try a single lesson with multiple teachers to find someone whose teaching style works for you. Lessons become far more effective when teacher and student genuinely enjoy working together.