About
I'm on a mission to show anyone they can sing. In my studio, you won't find stuffy recitals & rigorous rules. Instead, we work to amplify the joy in singing. I'll help you grow your confidence by showing you the foundations of vocal technique. It is my strong belief that singing is a skill set. It is a *myth* that good singers are simply naturally talented. I draw on 21st century voice science to produce sustainable results, while never compromising fun in the process. Technique exists to serve your artistry, and it is my passion to help you find the tools that work best to grow the voice inside of you.
I'm all about demystifying the singing process and meeting you at your level (no matter age, expertise, or style!) to reach your individual goals. I know that every singer is their own person with unique traits and unique needs. I work above and beyond to make sure you are heard. There's no "secret" to good singing & there's no one-size-fits-all way to help you rock out at karaoke night, land the lead in a musical, or record an album of your own songs one day. All it takes is learning the building blocks to train your muscles and grow your voice. If you want to learn to sing like the pros, you must learn how to sing functionally. I break down the steps to singing to help you build up your confidence.
Education:
I consider musical theatre and classical singing my bread and butter. I studied classical singing for six years, learning how to grow stronger in volume, confidence, and artistry. I went on to get a Master of Music in Voice Pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory, where I learned the science behind singing and the tools to be a compassionate, experienced, and creative educator. At Shenandoah, I also earned a Certificate in Contemporary Commercial Music, levels I-III, which have supported my skills in singing and teaching different musical styles such as pop, country, jazz, rock, etc.
I'm committed to helping any singer believe in themselves - that's 50% learning technique and 50% gaining confidence. I've got you covered 100%.
Reviews
Jamie S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I offer a free online consultation. Consider it a mini voice lesson where you get to learn about my methodology to singing and I get to learn your voice!
In a trial lesson, I'll go through vocal exercises to explore your range, pitch-matching, tone, registration, strengths, and any issues I might hear off the bat. We'll work together to establish your goals. Future students are encouraged (but not required) to bring a song of their choice to work on!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Most importantly, I hold an MM in Voice Pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory. I know the ins and outs of voice science, vocal health, musical styles, pedagogy for all ages, etc. All of this influences my teaching and equips me with the tools needed to tailor voice lessons for a variety of students.
I have a Bachelor of Art in Music at Georgia College & State University. There, I studied classical voice and performed roles such as Rosabella in "The Most Happy Fella," Maria in "West Side Story," Rosalinde in "Die Fledermaus," and Clara in "The Light in the Piazza." In 2016, I won the Georgia College concerto award and performed James Moberley's new work "Words of Love" for soprano and orchestra. I've sung as a soloist in concert on works such as Mozart's "Mass in C Minor," as Violetta in excerpts from Verdi's "La Traviata," Frank Ticheli's "Constellations" under his baton, as well as premiering multiple soprano solos in the Max Noah Singers' European tour of new compositions.
I've presented research at several conferences including the Georgia Music Educators Association and the Teaching & Learning Conference in Athens, GA, and the American Musicological Society in Vancouver, Canada.
As a conductor, I was the president and assistant student director of the Georgia College choral ensembles, where I conducted in several concerts. I greatly enjoy sacred music and have served as the Traditional Music Minister of First Baptist Church in Gray, GA as well as an assistant to the Minister of Music for Trinity Episcopal Church in Upperville, VA where I directed youth and adult choir. I also have experience in vocal directing for musicals. I was vocal director for the Milledgeville Players' production of "How to Succeed in Business," as well as directing many scenes in Georgia College's Musical Theater Scenes class throughout my undergraduate experience.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Monthly subscription or on-the-go coachings. Check my website for details.
How did you get started teaching?
I've always been someone who is action and goal-oriented. A fixer and a helper if you will. My interest in teaching started with trying to figure out my own vocal flaws. Why couldn't I move my voice fast enough to sing flawless runs? Why can't I sing louder? How can I better control my high notes?
So naturally I went on to get a Masters in Voice Pedagogy so I could totally demystify the process of singing! As much as I need and love performing myself, my greatest joy comes from helping others. There's never a day I'm tired of exploring new creative possibilities with my students! In my mind, there's always an opportunity every single day to learn something new.
What types of students have you worked with?
I find that the students I tend to be the best fit for would describe themselves as:
*Motivated
*Goal-driven
*Exploratory
*Willing to play!
While I work with a variety of ages, I especially love working with teens and adults with an interest in musical theatre, classical music, and pop music!