
A frequently asked question in business is “who is your ideal client?” This is also a relevant question in the business of voice teaching. Although some voice teachers have begun referring to their students as clients in order to promote the fact that this is a legitimate business, I will continue to use the term “student.” After degrees, lessons, certificates, and performing experience, I am a confident and competent teacher with a thorough understanding of the human voice, and I have success each day in facilitating better singing from my students. My teaching draws on science to inform what is going on in the body, empathy to understand how I can help each student overcome barriers, and art to help students use their voice as an expressive instrument.
My ideal voice student does not have a specific age, genre, goal, or level of “talent” or experience.
- I enjoy teaching students of a variety of ages, and they typically range from age 15-65. I have had older students, as well as younger students. High school students who are auditioning for school musicals or for college auditions have an infections level of energy. College students or graduates who are preparing for a career in voice require a level of expertise and artistry that is a fulfilling challenge. Purely avocational amateurs who sing for the love of it are also a joy to work with.
- The human voice is a remarkable instrument, capable of an infinite variety of expressive sounds. My goal is for each student to understand how their voice works and how to use it in sustainable ways for the longevity of their instrument. A voice can function well in nearly any style of music.
- In all areas of life, people are motivated by different factors. A singer must be self-motivated. Whether a student wants to be better in church choir, have the confidence to sing “Happy Birthday” to their friend, or pursue a career in singing, I am happy to help them reach their goals and possibly discover new ones along the way!
- To borrow from a book title, “Talent is Overrated.” I haven’t read the book, but I know this to be true. If you have a desire to be a better singer, and you have an expert to guide you, you can be a better singer. PERIOD. If you don’t like the sound of your voice, or if a cruel, misinformed music teacher in 3rd grade told you not to sing, those are psychological and emotional hurdles to overcome. There is probably nothing physically wrong with your voice, and even if there is, it can probably be improved, if not completely fixed. Being able to sing doesn’t mean that people will pay you. It just means trusting and understanding that you are capable of making good sounds.
- If you’re already a great singer, what is the point of lessons? Honestly, we can always continue learning, and it helps to have feedback from an informed listener. If you think you’re terrible, that should not stop you. There is HOPE, and YOU CAN GET BETTER!
To sum it up, my ideal students want to understand their voice and use it well. They have an open mind and are willing to “mess up.” They have patience (mostly with themselves). We all get frustrated when things don’t come out right the first time, but we breathe and try again. Ideally, students understand that practice is essential to improvement. Becoming a better singer takes time–months & years, not days & weeks–and the outcome is so gratifying for the singer and the listener!
If you are interested in lessons, please contact me via the form on my website. I am happy to talk with you to discuss your interests and goals, and if we are not a great fit for each other, then I can help you find someone who might be a better fit.