The Voice Studio Of Elizabeth Prescott

I like to speak on the phone and get some preliminary information with regard to experience, goals, etc. so we don't take lesson time with that. The first lesson involves both assessment and guidance, and each lesson is tailored to the level, needs and goals of the individual. I'm happy to work on vocal technique exclusively, or to work on audition and/or performance preparation when appropriate. It's helpful to meet more regularly in the beginning, but I have no requirement for frequency of lessons.

I began private voice lessons in technique as well as expert coaching from in classical repertoire at age 14 and have continued private training throughout my career. I attended Chapman University on a Shakespeare scholarship while continuing to study singing privately, and I began to work professionally in musical theater, light opera and session work for tv and film while still in college. I gained most of my training by seeking the best private instruction and master classes around the world rather than in traditional academia. One such experience was with a grammy-winning vocal jazz group. Around the same post-college time, I began a ten-year span of study with legendary teacher and author David Craig who specialized in musical theater audition technique. 

My most rare training is that in optimal breathing, particually as it relates to singing. I was the first person from outside of Europe to complete a certification in MDH Breathing Coordination in Lausanne Switzerland. This is a much sought-after technique that is immensely helpful and efficient to singers.

Lessons range from $40 to $150. I offer a variety of packages (refundable if plans change) that keep regular lessons affordable. On average, most of my students end up paying around $60 per lesson. I'm happy to send a fee schedule prior to meeting.

When I began lessons at 14, I had a tiny little voice, and within two years it had improved so dramatically that friends and schoolmates wanted to know what I was doing. My own teacher encouraged me to try to explain the techniques I practiced to further clarify them for myself, and I found it so rewarding to see others progress that I was hooked. After college I moved up to L.A., hung out my shingle and began to build my practice. In October 2020, I moved to Utah, in part to be close to my maturing parents, but also because I've come to love the people and rich musical culture here.

Pop, musical theater, classical, heavy metal, jazz, you name it. Also, I've worked with non-singing actors and other voice professionals. Since becoming trained and certified in the breathing work, I have worked more intensely with students with vocal pathologies (nodules, etc.) to resolve their issues once and for all, and I sometimes work with people who are focused on optimal breathing for health or elite athletic goals.While I've worked with children, I work primarily with teens and adults, many highly accomplished professionals, and plenty who are either just beginning their vocal journey or are pursuing singing for the mere pleasure of it.

A few days ago, I worked for the first time with a student who was referred to me by her instructors at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She had an audition for a prominent casting director (the main one in L.A., I would say) for a great part in a show, but she hadn't been auditioning for awhile and was unsure on many levels, including the right material for this unusual show that was a bit outside of her wheelhouse. I gave her extra time and kept working until we had chosen the audition selections, worked through the vocal adjustments needed, and also worked out performance elements that would help her create the best possible audition experience. She called me back after the audition with such excitement and confidence, so grateful for the work we had done together. I  will never get tired of getting calls like that!

I know it's expensive to shop around for teachers, but after doing some research by talking to some of their students, try at least a couple of different teachers if you can, unless the first one really seems a perfect fit. 

Most importantly, while there can be brief moments along the way where there is an imbalance that hasn't yet been corrected, in general singing shouldn't hurt! Know that you don't get those high notes by pushing, including a high belt quality. If a teacher is telling you to push through something that doesn't feel right, it's the wrong place for you.

What are your goals? What would you like to be better and easier with regard to your voice? Does the teacher offer vocal technique, or vocal coaching? Some use the terms interchangably, but by coaching I mean, do they suggest songs and run through material, but not offer technical guidance for the voice itself? Does the teacher accommpany on piano? Can they read sheet music enough to help you through material? Do they offer a series of vocal exercises that can be practiced on your own so you can progress between lessons?

Of course budget comes to mind because voice teachers like me have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars and decades of time and attention to be able to offer what we offer. It's important to be realistic and honest about what you can afford to do. Also, if they offer a package of lessons at a discount, what happens if your plans change and you don't want to or are unable to finish the package? Will they refund the unused lessons at a pro-rated amount so you don't lose money? 

What days and times are usually available, and what is the cancellation policy (i.e. 24 hours)?