About
I have trained as a classical singer since 2010 and have been singing professionally since 2014, and my classical training has given me the ability to teach singers of all styles of music to use their voice more efficiently, to hit high notes that previously felt out of reach, to sing more naturally with their own voice, and to sing more freely and enjoyably.
I graduated from UCLA in 2016 with a Bachelor's in classical voice performance, and have worked as a professional singer in many genres since 2014, including work with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Tonality; A Choral Spectrum, Queen City Opera, and many more.
While at UCLA, I was cast in many of the music department's operas, was a member of a scholarship outreach program that performed for schools & retirement homes, and was a member of the ScatterTones (an award-winning a cappella group that took second place at the International Competition of Collegiate A Cappella multiple years running).
I love getting to help someone grow more confident in themself and their ability as a singer. It's so exciting to help someone discover how to use their voice more efficiently, both in singing and in life.
Highlights
Reviews
Brandon S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first lesson is always given at a discounted rate, and I'm happy to travel to a student's home. We'll start by going over the basics of the parts of our body that make up our instruments (vocal cords, tongue, soft palate, larynx, lungs, diaphragm, etc.) and what they do. Once we've talked about that, we'll sing and I'll talk to you about what I hear in your voice, things I think are already good about the way you're singing and things that could be improved on. I'll give you some exercises to do for a few minutes every day, and we can work on whatever music you want to work on for the second half of the lesson.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor's degree in classical music from UCLA, and have worked as a professional singer since 2014.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
An hour long lesson is $45, but the first lesson is always given at a discounted rate (depending on how far I have to travel to get to the lesson - mostly just to cover the cost of gas!). I'm happy to come to you or meet elsewhere, whatever is easiest & most convenient for both of us.
How did you get started teaching?
I took a vocal pedagogy class while at UCLA and had always considered myself more of a performer up until that point, but I really loved the experience I had in working with other people and helping them become more confident in their singing & themselves.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with male & female students, mostly my age and younger (teenagers, early 20s) with varying levels of music experience.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I gave a voice lesson to a young girl who wanted to sing at her sister's high school graduation later that month, and it really felt like she opened up during the course of the lesson and it was so wonderful to see someone doing something they're passionate about!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Always look for someone who can explain *why* you should be singing a certain way, make sure you enjoy the lessons, and remember that it's most important for you to feel like you're really getting something out of the experience. And be sure to practice!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Think about some long term goals for what you'd like to be able to achieve in working with a teacher. Do you want to sing higher? Do you want to be able to use your breath more efficiently? How can I best help you do the things you want to do?