Carolyn F.

I have been taking lessons from Gabriel for the last 2 years and have seen huge improvements in my vocal abilities. His use of the Bel Canto method has helped me discover things about my voice that I did not know I was capable of. Gabriel always taylors each lesson to what my voice needs at any given moment and is able to adapt what we are working on based on how my voice is feeling that day or what it is capable of doing at any given moment. Not only have I learned to sing better, but he has taught me how to protect my voice by using proper techniques, breathing techniques and vocalizations.When I hear my voice from when I began lessons and now I can't believe the improvement.

Robert C.

My goal of singing well was a dream that I hadn’t realized. Instead I concentrated on my profession as an engineer. I love singing but had not connected with a teacher who demanded correct singing technique and language skills. Duba was that teacher. She was demanding, literate, and knew European classical music. I really appreciated the demands that she made on my voice tchnique and the classical songs we preformed. Her voice studio allowed me the opportunity to perform with a piano teacher in front of an audience. I really enjoyed those times. I count myself fortunate that I discovered her voice studio and that she accepted me as a student.

Fader F.

Wonderful experience. Our 6 year old son enjoys her class. Ms. Stella's fun way of teaching music shines threw when our son talks about Mozart Mouse and Beethoven Bear. Very thankful Ms. Stella was recommended to us last year.

Charles C.

I'm a 74 year old retired man. I have always loved acting but have had some minor challenges due to bad eye sight and I'm not that computer savvy. Jim helped me learn how to use an I-pad my grand daughter gave me to help me expand fonts to read scripts. Though I'm only doing this so far for a hobby, I can see huge improvement in my ability to memorize scripts and act convincingly. Jim encouraged me to audition for the community senior center's drama club. I couldn't believe it I got right in and enjoying meeting new people (I'm widowed). Jim has been a Godsend. I'm finding new joy and I'm enjoying seeing local theatre productions. I appreciate his kind, patient, and professional matter. Acting lessons with Jim is what got me through the horrible isolation during Covid quarantine. He is also incredibly knowledgable on health such as veganism, breathing/meditation and is encouraging me to get into a healthier lifestyle. My voice/sinuses improved after giving up dairy. I used to get chronic sinusitis. So I feel acting has been beneficial to my overall health. Though Jim is pricier than other teachers in the area... I believe you pay for what you get. The extra money I pay is well worth it. The two other acting coaches I used before Jim...were mediocre and treated me like an invalid. Jim continues to inspire me to be the best I can be in all areas of my life. I consider him a good friend and he is one of the best educators out there.

Gail M.

Lou Savage isn’t a “one size fits all” type of teacher. Rather he adjusts his lessons for the best outcome for each individual student. I highly recommend him for anyone who is serious about taking lessons.

Lydia J.

Patricia is a brilliant Renaissance woman. She is what you get when you mix technical excellence and style with humility, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to the craft. She is simply the best! I feel incredibly lucky to have met Patricia and begun my singing journey with her. I've been a student at Studio Shanks since 2018, when I was fresh out of college and looking for a voice teacher who could earnestly teach me how to sing. At the time, there were flashy online ads for folks that could "make you a superstar" and all of it felt so loud and nothing seemed to fit. At one point Patricia returned my call. Immediately I knew that she was the right teacher for me. It was obvious that she is not just naturally fun and easygoing, but also a true technician when it comes to the craft of singing. It's been a few years since we began working together. I've discovered that singing is something that can be learned at any age. It requires hard work, but it can be done. Luckily, Patricia is entirely dedicated to the growth and success of her students. Knowing this makes it much easier to bring my own effort during and between classes. I am honestly amazed at how, despite having worked with many respected luminaries in the field, Patricia remains humble and always with a sense of humor that puts me at ease. She is everything that comprises a professional artist and educator. What I love most is that she cuts through the noise and focuses on pure foundations. That means that she is able to work with vocalists ranging from the most contemporary pop styles to opera to musical theatre and beyond. All kinds of singing require the same basic knowledge of healthy and safe vocal techniques. At Studio Shanks, everything counts and everything matters. Thank you so much, Patricia!

Anna V.

We loved Julia because while very professional she is also energetic, personable, attentive and overall positive person. My 14 yo learned a lot in a small period of time. The improvement is amazing 👏