About
I love singing and teaching voice - it is my life's work and passion. Helping students find their voice is fulfilling - I’ve had many a successful students who work as professional singers but I enjoy working with all levels and ages. It’s so important to understand that No voice is the same and to help each student where they are. I create a safe environment in which to learn - developing a student’s strengths and helping where they are less confident!
Specialties
Musical styles
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Sylvia A.
Colleen C.
Karen R.
Kate L.
Aidan M.
Timothy H.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Interview on phone before we meet so we don't use precious lesson time up. Get to know my student and their voice. I warm up a student with vocal exercises then we typically work on a piece or two during the lesson. If the student has a special audition, competition involving specific repertoire or any other specific gig to prepare for, we get right to work on it! Otherwise I often choose the repertoire/songs for student and am open to their suggestions if it's appropriate for their voice. I teach the student about their own voice, encourage and provide performance opportunites through formal recitals sung with a professional pianist. Call me I will answer any questions you may have
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been teaching voice for over 30 years in Boston, Portland OR and CA. I have my degee from Boston Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA. I worked as Vocal Professor at Saint Mary's College in Moraga, CA for eight years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
How did you get started teaching?
I've sung since I was a young girl. Singing with my 45 records and in church and choir then decided to go to college (Boston conservatory of music) for formal training after working in high-status business. I became a professional singer many years later and have taught throughout my years of performing. I still perform, and still love it!
What types of students have you worked with?
Opera, Jazz, Pop, Musical Theater, Rock, Spiritual Singers, I've also worked with Ministers to help them with vocal delivery of their Sermons...quite a bit of diction related work.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
NATS National Association of Students of Singing
East Bay Singing Festival last Saturday, I've had many winners.
Just peformed the Mezzo solos in the Verdi Requiem in Mendocino in May.
See my website for more specific pertinent successes.
Singdonna.com
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Try out a couple of teachers to find the best fit for you. There has to be a mutual trust between the teacher and student (and parent) as it's personal to work with the singing voice! It's something that takes alot of patience and respect. Shop around until YOU feel comfortable with your teacher. Give me a call and we can start here. I have a great track record of keeping my students singing well as they can feel their voice changing in healthy, exciting ways.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What they want from Singing Lessons, what kind of music they are most interested in ultimately singing. How often can they take a lesson, how much time and funds are they able to afford. What do they want ME to know about THEM that will help them relax more in a lesson (for example 'I'm very nervous to sing solo')
Please consult both my YELP and Facebook accounts as you will find Reviews from collegues and many pictures of my students. It's always good to read what students say about their teacher; a good reference point. Good luck on your search and do give me a call.