About
What you get in voice lessons with me: laughter as you learn! I have learned solid classical vocal technique from the very best . I have trained with respected opera singers who have performed with companies such as Lyric Opera of Chicago, as well as leaders in vocal pedagogy. I believe everyone deserves the same useful tools- no matter what it is you like to sing!
I am patient and customize each and every lesson. Need more time on ear training? No problem . How about beginning music theory? I can help with that,too. Are you feeling more confident, and want to focus more on song polishing and getting into the heart of your songs? Let's do it! Confidence an issue? I am a pro with very shy people. I'll get you out of your shell, relaxed, and having fun right away so we can free that voice of yours! I have worked with many singers who have been diagnosed with anxiety: you're in good hands and you can trust me with your voice.
I am also a drama teacher who has worked with groups as well as individuals. I love working with beginning acting students! I'll assist with monologue prep, improvisation, voice for the stage, body awareness, and more. I love being on stage and want you to see how fun it is to jump in and let go,too!
I am a constant student in the world of theatre. I am currently taking many courses with the Drama Teacher Academy, and just received a certificate for monologue work ! Currently studying more improv and musical theatre techniques. I want my students to have as many skills as possible, no matter where their love for theatre or music takes them.
Business pro? I help with speaking voice and accent reduction!
If you're interested in beginner ear training or music theory, I'd love to help you with that as well. I present it in a no-nonsense and fun manner! I'll provide you with simple worksheets to increase your confidence in learning the language of music, as well as run you through increasingly challenging patterns and sight reading for the ear training. Don't be afraid: I make it easy and customize it all. I used to be scared of theory,too- so I know what works!
I have been singing for over 20 years. Performances with the Lira Ensemble and Opera on Tap Chicago, and in master classes with international opera stars Alan Held and Lorna Haywood. Coaching with Collaborative Works Chicago and Rossini Opera Festival. Additional studies in Rock Vocals, Voice Care, Improvisational Comedy, Holistic Voice, Acting, Foreign languages, Dalcroze, Speaking Voice for Singers, , Commercial Vocal Styles/Belting with Lisa Popeil, teacher mentoring workshop with Maestro David Jones. Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance. Additional workshops in Vocal Pedagogy with David Sabella-Mills, Jeannie LoVetri. Dr. Karen Prokop, Melissa Cross (the queen of healthy scream technique!), Sheri Sanders (musical theatre auditioning), and Chicago Cabaret Professionals.
Certified CoreSinging Instructor- one of only a few in the U.S. trained by Meribeth Dayme, PhD, respected clinician and authority in vocal pedagogy and author of "The Singing Book".
My students do a variety of great things! One was a top 12 "American Idol" finalist. Current students perform in musicals, top rated choirs, and professional rock , jazz,and blues bands. Many have won awards for their singing at competitions such as NATS. Students of mine have also been accepted to prestigious performing arts high schools for both drama and music, as well as undergraduate music programs.
I think if you can speak, you can sing. Everyone can and should sing! Don't let anything hold you back. I am a people person that is very passionate about music and singing, and want to be the teacher you'll trust with your voice. Come laugh and learn with me!
*** Lesson Details ***
I teach in person (Northwest Suburbs of Chicago) and online via Skype or FaceTime or TakeLessons Classroom, of course!
*** Studio Equipment ***
Sing and See Software. Additional materials I use: Funky n' Fun Vocal Exercises, Estelle Liebling Vocal Methods, Bona and Dannhauser for sight-reading, Full Voice workbooks for young and serious singers.
*** Specialties ***
Beginner vocalists! Very shy singers. Children, teens. Lapsed singers, and seniors. Experience in working with those with learning disabilities , special needs, and victims of abuse. Have also worked with the transgendered community. I also love to give workshops.
Learning from my students! I love working with a variety of ages, music styles, and abilities.
Details
Musical styles
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Catherine G.
Lisa J.
Candace T.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I want to make them feel comfortable- and get them to smile and laugh as they learn. This goes for an absolute beginner or someone who has had experience singing. Everyone gets "the overview" first time we meet. Then, we take it from there! If they're ready, we talk repertoire for the next lesson. If not ready, and needs more time getting the basics down...? NO PROBLEM!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance with extensive experience studying voice with masters such as Dr. Meribeth Dayme, David Jones, Lisa Popeil and many others. I'm a proud member of NATS.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$75 for 45 min and $100 for an hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I got started right after graduating from Millikin U, and have loved it ever since! I took a Vocal Pedagogy class while there and knew then and there it was for me. I loved the feeling of helping someone free their voice.
What types of students have you worked with?
EVERY kind of person you can imagine.
Very young children. Professional blues and jazz performers. Movie actors. American Idol finalists. Shower singers. Members of the transgendered community. Victims of abuse. Seniors. Musical theatre obsessed teens bound for college auditions. Rockers. Instrumentalists wanting to learn something new. Special needs.
I welcome EVERYONE to learn to sing with me!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I work with students from all over the world because I teach online. It brought me such joy to hear a student of mine in the UK got into her musical theatre program . Proof that online lessons are every bit as effective as in person ones!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
You have to find a teacher that makes you feel at ease, yet will challenge you. He or she has to make learning fun for you, or it won't get done!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How do I practice?
How often should I take lessons?