About
Michelle Kei I., a soprano of Japanese and American heritage, "uses her strong dramatic soprano to slice through the orchestra" in a varied repertoire that encompasses Verismo to Broadway. Possessing a captivating stage presence and praised as "superb," "gifted," and a "constant breakaway from the rest of the vocal pack," she has entertained audiences on stages around the world. Those are the first two sentences of my professional biography. I thought I'd use them to get the ball rolling.
Ever since I can remember, I've always been a performer. I come from a very musical family. I was always singing! I sang at home, in church, in show-choir and musicals at school - basically anywhere I could find an audience! When I decided to go to college to study music, I chose the prestigious School of Music at Indiana University. I wanted to sing Broadway, but my father encouraged me to study classical singing first, so I'd have the foundation for a bulletproof technique that could endure a long and demanding career.
I'm so glad that he did! Who would have thought that I would learn to LOVE opera?!? It had everything that Broadway did, and so much more! Plus, I learned to fill a theater with the sound of my voice and soar over the orchestra WITHOUT A MICROPHONE!!!
Would you like to learn how to do that? I can show you how. Let me help you find your REAL VOICE!!!
What you can expect from me:
- I will provide a supportive and effective work environment. - I will make recommendations on repertoire based upon your goals.- I will provide you with an individualized regimen of study based upon your strengths and development, not a standardized format of study.
What I expect from you:
- Learn the musical selections we choose. Your lesson time should be used for improving your technique, not learning your music. - Leave your outside life at the door. It will be waiting for you when you leave. - Enjoy the process. Experiment. If it doesn't work, try something else. Take constructive criticism as an opportunity for improvement, not as a personal attack. - Commit yourself fully! Be engaged. The benefit you receive is equal to the work you put into the process.
Education:
Master of Music Indiana University; Jacobs School of Music
Institute for the International Education of Students; Study Abroad: Vienna, Austria
Bachelor of Music Indiana University; Jacobs School of Music
Affliliations:
NATS (National Assoc. of Teachers of Singing)
AGMA (American Guild of Musical Artists)
SAI (Sigma Alpha Iota)
Each student that I teach brings me joy. To hear and watch them grow as an artist is inspiring and amazing.
Highlights
Specialties
Musical styles
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
William
Harold
Ken K.
Julie H.
Faith
John
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
There is no "typical" process. Every student is different - with a different voice, temperament and learning style. I develop a personal program to suit each indiviual student that walks into my studio.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Master of Music; Indiana University, School of Music
Study Abroad; Vienna, Austria Institute for the International Education of Students
Bachelor of Music; Indiana University, School of Music
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$70 per hour
$35 per 1/2 hour
How did you get started teaching?
A parent approached me after I sang a concert at a church, asking if I would teach their daughter to sing like me. I met with the young girl, and she inspired me to teach her because of her talent, dedication, maturity and personality.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have students ranging in age from 5 to 80 years old, male and female, learning to improve their voices to sing different types of music.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Annual Studio Recital for family and friends: Amazing to hear students honing their performance skills and inspiring each other to sing with joy and confidence.
Bi-monthly Student Volunteer Concert at the local retirement community: Love seeing our students sharing there musical gifts with those that are home-bound.
A Night out at the Opera: Cinema event. We took our students to see a Metropolitan Opera performance at a local movie theater.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher that can help you define and reach your ultimate goals? Do they have a good singing technique themselves? Are they effective communicators? Look for a teacher with credentials and extensive professional experience.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your singing goals?
Will this teacher inspire me and propel me towards reaching my goals?