About
I have been the head of vocal jazz at the University of Denver for 17 years and have develped a passion for helping musicans supercharge their musical abilities in voice, piano, jazz improvisation, composing, arranging and theory. I hold both a BM and and MM in music at the University of Denver and have received numerous awards as an educator. Please visit my website for more information, recordings, and examples of my compositions and arrangements. http://www.donnawickham.com
Some musical concepts seem unattainable to certain students. I love seeing the "lightbulb" go off in a student's head when they are finally able to do something difficult. Their excitement is just the best thing in the world for me!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We begin by talking about your goals both short-term and long term. After that, we'll make some music together so I can get a good idea of where you are at. Then we will discuss a plan for helping you to acheive those goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BM in Vocal Performance and and an MM in Conducting from the University of Denver's Lamont School of Music. Straight out of my masters degree, they hired me to head their vocal jazz program. I have also studied with several master jazz musicians; Lynn Baker, Eric Gunnison, Art Lande and Jeff Jenkins. In the summer of 2018 I completed all three levels of Somatic Voicework TM with Jeanie LoVetri at Baldwin Wallace University.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My normal rate for lessons is $70 per hour, but I am offering a discounted rate of $60 per hour for students who find me through Lessons.com.
How did you get started teaching?
When I was still working on my BM degree, students started coming to me to take lessons beyond the training they were getting with their primary instructors. Those students started showing some real progress and I have been hooked ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with students who are at a relatively advanced level and are either already professional musicians, or are on their way to being professionals. The youngest students I take are college-bound high school seniors.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My favorite thing is seeing my students performing live and absolutely killing it!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be open and honest when talking to prospective teachers and don't try to be the student you think they want. Be 100% authentic and you will find the perfect instructor.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Take some time to assess your short-term goals, your long-term goals, your current level of expertise, and any challenges that might be standing in the way of acheiving your goals.