About
I am one of the only classically-trained Suzuki Voice teachers in the Fairfield County area and the only one who who studied in Finland with the Suzuki Voice Founder. Unlike Suzuki Violin, the Suzuki Voice books are only available through a trained Suzuki Voice teacher. I modify how and what I teach based on each student's age, personality, ability and interests. I teach students as young as four years old to young adults. Children are never too young to learn music and build their musicality. While I primarily focus on classical repertoire (beginning with simple folk songs for children and harder material for teens), I do supplement with some Musical Theater, depending on the student's age and ability.
I love to see a child or young adult's confidence grow alongside their singing abilities! Using one's voice as a musical instrument is in many ways much harder than using a piano or violin because one's own instrument is wrapped up inside of oneself! Conquering notes and difficult passages enables students to explore and become more secure in their own skin. Freeing students from self-doubt and helping them to have pride their own unique voices and selves is what really motivates me as a teacher.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I get to know the student as a person by asking about their interests and goals. I listen to each student's voice by having him/her sing a simple song like "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" or "Happy Birthday." With more experienced students, I listen to the song they are currently working on. Many of my students are working on audition pieces so I will listen to their audition piece.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My musical training began at the age of seven when I began studying Violin with Brenda Wurman in Chicago. I began studying Voice at St. John's College in Sante Fe, New Mexico, under the tutelage and encouragement of Dr. Lawrence Cave. I have studied Classical Voice with: Candace Magner (Santa Fe), Elsa Charlston, Patricia Martinez, and Norman Gulbrandsen at DePaul University School of Music in Chicago. In order to properly teach children and young adults how to sing, I went to Finland and studied with Suzuki Voice founder Dr. Päivi Kukkamäki. Additionally, as part of my Suzuki Voice training in Finland, I studied Voice and Vocal Repertoire with Suzuki Voice Teacher Trainer Mette Heikkinen (ESA). I am currently pursuing a Masters in Vocal Pedagogy at the Voice Workshop through the Universtiy of Wales Trinity St. David with Debbie Winter and Jenevora Williams.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Individual Lesson Rates
30 Minute Lesson - $40.00 (recommended for ages 4-10)
45 Minute Lesson - $60.00 (recommended for ages 11-13)
60 Minute Lesson - $75.00 (recommended for ages 13+)
How did you get started teaching?
I started studying Suzuki Voice in an effort to help my own daughter train her voice. I realized that no one in our area specialized in teaching children how to sing. In fact, many teachers will not teach children. But I believe teaching children early helps them to create good habits and technique.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students as young as 3 years old up to adult. I specialize in teaching children and young adults (up to age 25).
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure the teacher is well-trained and qualified and that there is a good rapport between you and your teacher. Your teacher should help you understand how to use your voice by putting instructions in a way you can understand. He/she should "speak your language."
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
A student should always feel comfortable about speaking to a teacher about their needs. If you do not, get a new teacher!