About
I believe each person who can hear and speak can learn to sing, if they desire. There are no "bad sounds" produced in my studio: we explore the voice at every level making everything from soft floaty sounds to hard gravelly sounds. Becoming familiar with requirements for producing these types of sound is intrinsic to learning any genre of music as well as the current limitations and growth potential of your own voice.
My lessons focus on healthy vocal production to free the best voice of each individual singer and are aimed at accomplishing the long-term or short-term goals of the singer, whatever those may be. Often I will utilize kinesthetic learning "tools" to condition healthful sound production. Imagery, diagrams, and explanations of physical or acoustical concepts may also be used if appropriate for the singer. Voice science as a field has been rapidly expanding the last 20 years, though "old-school" singing technique has been taught orally for hundreds. I continue my own education on singing, performing, and teaching techniques to give my students their best chance at success and fulfillment through singing.
As vocal production is controlled by antagonistic muscle groups, "cross-training" through opposite genres will be encouraged in my studio. Students hoping to sing pop/rock music will have several folk or classical pieces assigned to them. Classical singers can expect to spend some time in music theatre repertoire or jazz standards. We will focus mostly on your preferred genre, but, especially if we reach a vocal plateau, expect that other genres of music exist to help your vocal growth.
Highlights
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Thomas M.
Frequently asked questions
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Masters of Music in Voice Performance: University of Washington
Bachelors of Music in Voice Performance: St. Mary's College
Member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing
Member of the Northwest Voice Foundation
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all sorts of students! Beginners to advanced singers of all ages (youngest of 6, oldest in 70s), including those who previously declared themselves "tone deaf." I have helped couples prepare a song to share at their wedding, adult students who want to improve their karaoke game, teens who are preparing for college music scholarship and entrance audition, many students of many ages preparing for theatre shows, and choristers who need a little extra help with advanced music. I also work with injured singers who need minor rehabilitation work done.