About
SEE PHOTOS FOR MY REVIEWS FROM PREVIOUS PLATFORM. Unfortunately - TakeLessons, the previous website where I was teaching, has shut down. I had almost 100 positive reviews over there. Anyway, I am focusing efforts here now! :) I think I only added half of them so far... haha. I have 2 bios - one with my education experience, one with my singing experience.
EDUCATION BIO
Mary is a dynamic performer and passionate teacher with a background in violin, voice and Music Education. She has taught in international schools worldwide, specializing in instrumental programs for students aged 6-14. Known for her vibrant classrooms, she has conducted major festivals like the COBIS International Music Festival Orchestra and the BSF Gifted and Talented Festival Choir and String Orchestra. In the Middle East, Miss V. has successfully prepared students for prestigious practical and theory exams, with many earning top honors.
SINGING BIO
Mary is a dramatic contralto from Portland, Maine, is currently pursuing her Master's Degree in Weimar, Germany. Mary's highly anticipated soloist debut happened at the State Opera of Stara Zagora where she performed the role of Nedda in i Pagliacci. Shortly thereafter she participated in the chamber opera "Katze Ivanka" at the National Opera of Sofia. She has also studied at the esteemed Gneissin Academy in Moscow under the guidance of Bolshoi Opera soloist Irina Dolzhenko and participated in productions at the Mediterranean Opera Festival in Italy.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
This all depends on the students level of course.
Usually I'll figure out their voice type and assign appropriate repertoire. When I have students who've already done lessons in the past, this is a quick process and we basically get straight to work on technique.
For new students or pop/rock students, this can take a few lessons as they usually have no idea about their range or capability. Many of the pop/rock singers I teach learn through "imitation" and have no idea that their voice is capable of something completely different (in a good way).
For students that have trouble matching pitch, we will typically do ear training work and divide the lesson up to 15 minute chunks per week so we consistently develop their ear.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in Music Education and have taught in various International Schools all over the world including Moscow, Abu Dhabi, Manama, Prague & Valencia.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes, my lessons are $38 per 30m, $52 for 45m or $70 per hour. I recommend one hour to advanced singers and for serious singers most do 2 lessons per week. (By serious I mean professional Musical Theater or Classical, not pop).
How did you get started teaching?
I've always taught as I was a Music Ed major but my passion is Vocal Pedagogy.
What types of students have you worked with?
EVERYONE!
Most of my studnets are between 14 and 30 but I've taught all ages. Currently I have one 6 year old and an 11 year old who are both very responsive students.
I've taught voice lessons to people 50+ as well and even conducted community choirs with this age group as well.
In the schools I've worked in, I've taught all ages but especially ages 10-14
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Free outdoor Berlin Phil concert that was sold out for months in advance.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure you have a voice teacher giving you practice, useful advice. There are a lot of terrible voice teachers out there who "sing" but don't know how the mechanism works. I'd recommend to go to an opera singer no matter what your genre.
Opera singers usually actually know SOMETHING.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How will we assess my needs and what will we do specifically to meet those needs?