About
Most musicians are naturally good singers or pianists, and teach mostly by having you copy what they do. So what happens when you can't just "Do it like this"?
In your lessons, we use concrete techniques that ANYONE (even if you can't sing or play a note when we start) can follow to improve your musical skills.
I struggled to learn based on old school teaching styles, so I had to figure it out in a much more technical and step by step manner. Now you get that benefit of learning what's most important, while having some fun along the way.
My goal is to:
Give you the confidence to express yourself musically
Improve your skills through concrete techniques and exercises
Broaden your musical and performing ability, both live and virtually
Embrace the fun and joy of performing the songs you love
I love taking people beyond where you think you can go. Its so rewarding to see a student's face light up when they hit the note they thought was out of their reach, or play the song they NEVER thought they could play.
Very often, my students mention that they never knew that playing or singing could be so easy or effortless. The idea that something has to be "hard" in order for it to work is outdated. There is still work involved, but killing yourself by hitting the same brick wall over and over is pointless.
I use all the tips and tricks I've learned over 20 years of professional performance to focus on what's most important and useful to you, what will actually get you playing and singing the songs you want.
Reviews
kate E.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Generally our first lesson is a mix of discussing your experience, what you'd like to achieve with your lessons, and having you sing or play a song with which you're comfortable.
From there, I can determine your strengths and places to improve upon, and our lessons become a mix of technical exercises, some fun songs and also applying the concepts you learn to songs that will stretch you and build your skills.
I want you to know what you're doing RIGHT, and how to do more of that, instead of just correcting what's wrong. Our lessons are in a safe and supportive environment, where you can experiment and develop your own unique voice.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I trained as a concert pianist for 15 years, and also trained as an accompanist for vocalists for the same time. I've probably been through more voice lessons than most singers :)
My experience in a nutshell:
Music directed over 50 musicals.
Music directed an additional 12 shows or more specifically for kids and teens.
Sung in or soloed in musicals, vocal jazz, show choirs, classical and contemporary ensembles.
20 years playing, performing and directing professionally.
Played and sung in every major Christian denomination of church
Worked with over 3,000 people in my shows and lessons
I use my experience to teach concrete techniques that you can use in a variety of styles, along with which approach works best for the song you're singing or playing.