Sandi Russell Music Studios
About
Seeing a student reach their goals and gain self-confidence is my number one concern. I consider myself to be a passionate vocal teacher/voice coach and music teacher who will cheer her students on while giving sound, expert instruction, inspiration and advice. I have over 35 years of experience as a singer, songwriter and performer and over 25 years experience as a voice and music teacher. I teach all genres of music and specialize in audition prep for musical theatre and voice.
Here is my bio:
Sandi Russell has a wealth of experience and knowledge in singing and the performing arts. Her
vocal teaching career spans over 20 years and she has over 35 years of experience as a
performer. Sandi studied music education and vocal performance at Florida State University.
While at Florida State University, Sandi studied voice with professors Barbara Ford, David
Wingate, and Timothy Hoekman. She also studied choral conducting and vocal pedagogy under
the direction of the world renowned composer and conductor, Dr. Andre Thomas, as well as
Dr. Colleen Kirk, Dr. Clayton Krehbiel, and Betty Jane Grimm. Sandi has a Bachelor’s Degree in
Organizational Management (concentration in music) and a Masters Degree in Organizational
Management with a specialization in Leadership.
Sandi also travels the country as a worship leader, guest soloist and speaker. She is an
accomplished singer, songwriter and recording artist. Sandi has an extensive background
in musical theater and has performed in such productions as "Purlie", "Carnival", "South Pacific",
"My Fair Lady", "Carousel", and "Porgy and Bess". Being a talented vocal and performing artist
herself, Sandi believes in developing the talents of aspiring singers and thespians. Sandi has
worked as the musical director for Christian Musical Theater a Palm Beach County based
performing arts organization, as well as served as the director of Garden's Glee, a children's
vocal ensemble which she founded.
Sandi is also the co-founder and artistic director for Palm Beach Children's Chorus, a non-profit children's multicultural, community children's chorus comprised of youth ages 8-18 from Palm Beach County and the surrounding areas (www.pbchildrenschorus.org). Under the direction of Mrs. Russell, the chorus has most recently been invited to perform in a world music premiere at New York City's Carnegie Hall in June 2017. Sandi is also a co-founder and director of The South Florida Society for Arts and Culture, a nonprofit organization advocating the creation and preservation of preforming and visual arts and culture.
In 2004, Sandi Russell debuted her first solo album, entitled “You Are Holy”. She has
appeared as a featured soloist on numerous recordings by Christ Fellowship Church. As a recording artist, Sandi has shared the stage with Christian/Gospel and secular artists such as the late James Cleveland, Vickie Winans, Truth, 4-Him, Michael Neale, Alicia Williamson-Garcia, The Brooklyn Tabernacle Singers, Anthony Evans, Babbie Mason, Bob Carlisle, Sinbad, Betty Wright and EnVogue.
Sandi is a classically trained vocalist (soprano) and has performed in such major venues as the
National Cathedral (Washington, D.C.), St. Louis Cathedral (New Orleans, LA), and the Kravis Center
for the Performing Arts (West Palm Beach, FL) and most recently many others during her tenure as a vocalist, alongside her daughters (Russell Avenue) touring with PBS Piano prodigy and performer, Ethan Bortnick.
In addition to owning a video/television production company with her husband, Matthew,
Sandi was also the host and co-producer of “Praise Connection TV”, a Christian music television show
that appeared locally and nationally on the Christian Television Network.
In 2015, Sandi founded, Palm Beach Children's Chorus, a non-profit children's performing arts organization based in Palm Beach Children's Chorus. Under Sandi's direction, Palm Beach Children's Chorus has received many accolades and has even performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Sandi has an extensive teaching background in the area of vocal music. During the last 11 years Sandi has specialized in vocal audition preparation. She has been very successful with having her students obtain admission into the prestigious Bak MSOA and Dreyfoos High School of the Arts vocal music programs, as well as admission into college/university vocal music programs and television shows such as American Idol.
Sandi enjoys bringing the gift of singing
into the lives of children and adults and believes that music has the power to change lives.
I love seeing a student's face light up when they realize they can reach their goals!! When I get the chance to help a student realize that anything is possible, I am ecstatic and super happy!!!
Photos and videos
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first thing I do when working with a student is to set up an initial evaluation. During this time, we will put a plan into action and set goals for the student and develop an individual course. Every student is different and this is taken into account.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I studied Vocal Performance and Music Education at Florida State University. I also have a master's degree in Organizational Leadership.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My pricing system is simple:
$30 per half hour of lessons/ $60 per hour
How did you get started teaching?
I got started teaching while I was an undergraduate student at Florida State University in 1988. I have always loved teaching and helping others receive the joy that music brings!!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students from beginners to professionals in music. My students range in age from 6-76. Whether someone is just starting out or is a seasoned professional wanting to brush up on technique, I'm happy to help!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am most fond of conducting and directing my Palm Beach Children's Chorus students on the world famous stage of Carnegie Hall in New York City in 2017. In 2020, we received another invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall, but were unable to, due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher that is going to be a positive mentor in your musical journey. Expertise is very important, but it needs to be combined with positivity and encouragement!