About
My name is Rachel Mason, and I am a soprano and voice teacher based in the Indianapolis area. I have been an active singer for many years, and I am a recent graduate of Western Illinois University with a Masters of Music in Vocal Performance, and a graduate of Millikin University with a Bachelors in Vocal Performance. As a recipient of eight years of private vocal instruction from active vocal professionals, I understand the powerful impact that voice lessons can have on an individual. I competed at the highest level in ISSMA solo and ensemble for many years, and participated in Indiana All State Choir for four years before I went to Millikin University. There, I sang with the renowned Millikin University Choir for three years under the direction of Dr. Brad Holmes. At both Millikin and Western Illinois University, I performed regularly as a soloist in recitals and masterclasses, as well as performing several roles in both universities’ Opera Theaters. I also have over five years of teaching experience as a tutor and Graduate Assistant in Music History and in university Writing Centers, in addition to my experience of over a year in teaching private voice lessons.
I am thrilled to be back in the Indianapolis area, and am very excited about this opportunity to teach in your district and share my love of music with you. In my studio, it is my mission as a voice teacher to foster a love of music through teaching a healthy singing style that allows each student’s unique voice to flourish. I encourage students to explore their own sound within age-appropriate vocal technique and I expose my students to a variety of classical styles of music, as well as musical theater and contemporary sounds. I encourage students as they develop their musicality, vocal skills, performance styles, presence, musical interpretation, and unique sound in a learning environment that is engaging, professional, and inviting. As a voice teacher, I am professional, engaging, adaptable, and invested in my students’ success.
More information about me and my voice studio can be found on my website, www.rachelmasonsoprano.com
Highlights
Reviews
Rachel G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
After we agree to work together, I like to have a clear idea of what your goals are for working with me, which I usually do using a "goals" form that gives me insight into your interest and musical experience, as well as your goals. The first lesson is always a "Get to Know You" lesson, where I like to hear you sing something in your current repertoire, and we work on that for a while, and end the lesson with a discussion of how I would like to move forward with our lessons.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Masters of Music in Vocal Performance from Western Illinois University (2020), as well as a Bachelors of Music in Vocal Performance from Millikin University (2018). I have taken over eight years of private instruction from active vocal professionals, and have many years of experience in opera, musical theater, recital, and solo performance.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
30 min. lesson: 20$ per lesson
45 min. lesson: 25$ per lesson
60 min. lesson: 30$ per lesson
Flexible payment plans available, including monthly and semesterly
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching because I love the learning process and the joy of discovery. I love being part of a student's learning process, and watching them grow and take ownership of their artistry. I also find that teaching inspires self-improvement, and that I am inspired by my students to continue to learn and grow as a musician.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with collegiate and adult students at every skill level and background. I offer lessons ages 13 and up, at any skill level.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
In my final year at WIU, I worked on a Gluck opera, learning the role of Marie, and really loved playing with the youthful, comedic opportunities for expression. I also loved working on the John Blow "Venus and Adonis" one-act, which helped me learn the vast opportunity for musical expression offered by Baroque opera.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Know your goals! Whether your goals are generic or specific, large or small, if you know what you want to achieve, you will be better able to judge if a teacher is right for you! I hope you also look for a teacher who has a personality that allows you to flourish; someone who will offer you encouragement and honesty.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Again, know your goals! Whether they are genre/repertoire, skill, or performance goals, they are important, and your teacher wants to know about them! Also reflect and see if there is a timeline connected to those goals: are you looking to achieve a certain performance or preparation level by a specific date? Communicating that with a teacher will give them better insight into what you need, and will help you prepare accordingly.