About
My goal is to help each student find their best singing voice and the healthiest way to produce it. I have taught opera singers, cabaret singers, music theater singers, and classical recital singers. After many years teaching in High Schools and Colleges, I am now teaching exclusively in my home studio.
My students range in age from 13 to 70. I have directed choruses, and taught Voice in high schools and colleges, as well as in my studio for over 30 years. I have served as an officer in NATS (National Assn of Teachers of Singers) for many years to the present. I have peformed in recitals, shows, orchestra concerts, accapella groups and more. I do play piano so I can accompany my students as they learn new music.
I am delighted in the progress my students make as they study with me I am a guardian of your voice, helping each student to sing in a way that they can use into their 70s and beyond. if you know how to use it , you will not lose it
I look forward to meeting new students and helping them towards their goals
Maryann Sewell
202-210-8857
I love hearing the voices improve, and become steadier, larger, more centered, and more expressive. Every voice is different, and has different strengths, and weaknesses. It is very rewarding work to hear consistent improvement being made.
Reviews
omolola G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I work on the voice first using vocal exercises and relatively easy material within a moderate range. Gradually I expand the difficulty of the music and open up the potential of the whole voice. The goal is to establish the appropriate range of the voice and also to smooth out the register changes. I suggest songs, and encourage the student to select songs as we progress.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Studied Voice at the University of Rochester, Eastman School of Music, Peabody Institute and The Catholic Univesity of America. I have taught Choral singers who sing in major groups in the Washington area, Opera singers who sing with Washington Opera, Solo recitalists and Music Theater singers.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$65.00 per hour
$55.00 per 3/4 hour
$40.00 per half hour (I do not recommend half-hour lessons)
How did you get started teaching?
I loved singing and gradually was asked if I would help other singers. I also was a chorus director for many years, and members of the group would ask me for help. I am very interested in the mechanics of singing, as well as the beautiful repertoire available, and gradually my studio expanded. It gives me great joy to hear my students grow in their abilities.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught all ages from 10 to 75. There have been Music Theater singers, Opera singers, Cabaret singers, Church soloists, Cantors, High school students, and College students.
At some time during a first lesson I always ask if the student feels comfortable with me. If not, I suggest that they might want to try a different teacher. There has to be a great deal of trust between me and the student for the student to thrive.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A student of mine gave a duet recital with a friend of hers (not my student). It was a wonderful event, greatly enjoyed by all who attended, and very affirming to my student. I felt very proud to have had a part in this success.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
1. If a teacher makes you feel bad about yourself, do not study with him/her.
2. If you are crying at the end of lessons, do not go back to that teacher.
3. If you feel you are not singing better after several months, and you have been practicing, find another teacher.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your goals? (Even if they are not realiztic at the moment)
Actually, if the teacher is sympathetic, any question is alright. I also think that sometimes beginning students do not know what their vocal needs are. This is something that can be clarified with the teacher, possiblhy not at the first lesson, but as the student and teacher get to know each other better.