Below you will find the answers to some frequently asked questions about voice lessons. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have!
Frequently asked questions
Q: At what age should my child begin voice lessons?
A: Voice lessons should typically begin later than piano. This is due to the constantly changing nature of the grown vocal folds and larnyx, as well as the abstract nature of many of the concepts taught. Many female students are ready for lessons at age eight or nine, depending on maturity. Early lessons will focus on musicality, breath support, and musical concepts and reading. At middle school age we are able to begin exploring more advanced concepts. Students with an interest in singing who are too young for lessons would benefit from piano lessons, where they will learn many of the same lessons without the danger of vocal injury. I take male students at age 14 or 15, after their voices have changed.
Q: Do you teach adult students?
A: Yes! I teach students of all ages, and have many adults in my studio. At your first lesson we will discuss your goals, so that I can individually tailor your lessons to your needs. I have adults who sing in their church choirs, singers in local musical theatre productions, and some who take voice as a hobby. Whatever your reasons, learning to express yourself through song can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have!
Q: What styles of music do you teach in your studio?
A: My students sing many different styles of music, from classical to broadway, jazz, and pop. I believe in a well-rounded education, with a solid vocal technique and the ability to apply that technique to different genres.
Q: What method do you teach?
A: I teach a classical based method that stresses the fundamentals of good tone production. This technique can be applied to almost any genre of music, in order to creat a beautiful tone without vocal strain. My students sing many styles, and I myself am a performer of classical, musical theatre, and jazz styles. I do not teach belting or rock singing, both of which can cause permanant vocal damage over time.
Q: What is a voice lesson like?
A: Voice lessons are split between warm-ups/technical exercises and repertoire work (songs.) We begin the lesson with a vocal warm-up, and then work on exercises and which are designed to strengthen specific parts of the voice. We then move on to song work. Lessons last for 30 minutes under the age of 14, and over 14 are between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the needs of the individual student.