Katherine Mallon-Day Voice Studio
About
A versatile voice is a healthy voice. Regardless of the musical style in which one sings, my goal is to balance healthy singing with expressive singing, to find the inner meaning and emotion in the music and to help the singer find in his/her voice the means to express that meaning. I believe that a good teacher is also an active performer, as well as an advocate for her students. I strive to offer a supportive and challenging environment.
There is nothing better than hearing something beautiful and expressive emerging from a singing student, and to feel that I helped the singer find it. I enjoy the one-on-one learning environment, the opportunity to focus on that person's needs and to help him/her make music an integral part of life.
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Able to read music
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When we first meet, I like to begin with some gentle glides and simple scale patterns to loosen up the voice and get the singer used to the room and me. We may discuss some concepts about relaxing and discovering a more efficient breathing process. I usually invite the new student to sing something s/he is comfortable singing (can be acappella), just to let him/her show me how s/he expresses a song. We might also use something familiar like "America, the Beautiful."
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BA in Music from the University of Pennsylvania, a Teaching Certificate in Music from Temple University and two Masters in Music (Vocal Performance and Music History) from Temple University. I have been teaching in my home studio and at Settlement Music School in Philadelphia for about thirty years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My fees are $40/30 minutes; $50/45 minutes; $60/60 minutes.
How did you get started teaching?
When I was in graduate school, my voice teacher recommended me to replace his wife (also a voice teacher) at Settlement Music School. It was a good fit, and I have enjoyed working with voice students of all ages and musical experiences ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have students who are in late elementary school through high school, as well as adults ranging from early twenties through eighties! Yes, one can still improving singing abilities in later years. With these students we have worked on classical, musical theatre, jazz, pop, folk and rock musical styles. I have students who are working toward careers in vocal performance and musical theatre, as well as those who want to improve their singing for personal satisfaction, to join a choir, or regain some lost vocal flexibility.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Throughout the year, I invite small groups of my students of similar age to my home studio for "Sing-in," an informal opportunity for them to share what they have been working on and to gain experience in performing, i.e. memorizing, dealing with nerves, expressing the meaning and feeling of a piece. We also work on duets to help them sing with others successfully. During one of these Sing-ins, one of my students sang a trio with her two young daughters. It was delightful!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Take more than one lesson before making your decision whether the teacher is a good fit. The first lesson involves so much about getting acquainted not only with the student's voice, but also personality, goals, fears, etc. It takes a while to see what the teacher has to offer. Take some relevant questions to the first lesson; think of it as a bit of an interview.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What am I happy with about my voice?
Where do I feel most vulnerable; what do I hope to gain from lessons?
How much am I willing to commit to practicing to make the skills become habits?
What do I want to do with my singing (enjoying singing in the shower is a valid goal!)?