Lynn C.

Topher is an amazing coach! He is the coach for all coaches and my definitely Forever Coach! Thank you so much!

Charles C.

I'm a 74 year old retired man. I have always loved acting but have had some minor challenges due to bad eye sight and I'm not that computer savvy. Jim helped me learn how to use an I-pad my grand daughter gave me to help me expand fonts to read scripts. Though I'm only doing this so far for a hobby, I can see huge improvement in my ability to memorize scripts and act convincingly. Jim encouraged me to audition for the community senior center's drama club. I couldn't believe it I got right in and enjoying meeting new people (I'm widowed). Jim has been a Godsend. I'm finding new joy and I'm enjoying seeing local theatre productions. I appreciate his kind, patient, and professional matter. Acting lessons with Jim is what got me through the horrible isolation during Covid quarantine. He is also incredibly knowledgable on health such as veganism, breathing/meditation and is encouraging me to get into a healthier lifestyle. My voice/sinuses improved after giving up dairy. I used to get chronic sinusitis. So I feel acting has been beneficial to my overall health. Though Jim is pricier than other teachers in the area... I believe you pay for what you get. The extra money I pay is well worth it. The two other acting coaches I used before Jim...were mediocre and treated me like an invalid. Jim continues to inspire me to be the best I can be in all areas of my life. I consider him a good friend and he is one of the best educators out there.

Genevieve H.

I am proud to say that Miss Lee taught me everything I know about sparkling onstage and fundamental vocal technique. She encouraged me and my sister to expand what we thought was possible from our range of voice and expression. Through Miss Lee's enthusiasm and experienced guidance, we learned how to act like professionals and perform with confidence. As a result of her training and support, we have been successful in many other performing endeavors throughout high school and college.

Gail B.

Jamie Morrow has a way of creating a synergy in her teaching method that is so supportive and relaxing that freed my whole being. I just felt like soaring!!! I carry this with me now with every gift in which I am privileged to take part. I look forward to my next meeting with Jamie Morrow.

Antoinette G.

Dennis is an excellent teacher and all around nice person. Very professional and knowledgeable in his craft. My daughter has progressed exponentially, and continues to learn. He is teaching her to be a well rounded actor/voice actor and is personally committed to seeing her succeed. Highly recommended!

Julia A.

Robbi K is an incredible piano teacher and so much fun to work with! She is a serious musician who manages to make every lesson a blast while holding her students to the highest standards. Highly recommend!

Hs

I can feel myself progressing quickly after only a few lessons.

Lydia J.

Patricia is a brilliant Renaissance woman. She is what you get when you mix technical excellence and style with humility, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to the craft. She is simply the best! I feel incredibly lucky to have met Patricia and begun my singing journey with her. I've been a student at Studio Shanks since 2018, when I was fresh out of college and looking for a voice teacher who could earnestly teach me how to sing. At the time, there were flashy online ads for folks that could "make you a superstar" and all of it felt so loud and nothing seemed to fit. At one point Patricia returned my call. Immediately I knew that she was the right teacher for me. It was obvious that she is not just naturally fun and easygoing, but also a true technician when it comes to the craft of singing. It's been a few years since we began working together. I've discovered that singing is something that can be learned at any age. It requires hard work, but it can be done. Luckily, Patricia is entirely dedicated to the growth and success of her students. Knowing this makes it much easier to bring my own effort during and between classes. I am honestly amazed at how, despite having worked with many respected luminaries in the field, Patricia remains humble and always with a sense of humor that puts me at ease. She is everything that comprises a professional artist and educator. What I love most is that she cuts through the noise and focuses on pure foundations. That means that she is able to work with vocalists ranging from the most contemporary pop styles to opera to musical theatre and beyond. All kinds of singing require the same basic knowledge of healthy and safe vocal techniques. At Studio Shanks, everything counts and everything matters. Thank you so much, Patricia!