Vocal Instruction

In analyzing beginner voice students, some are gifted with a well-placed natural voice, possessing a lovely, full, open quality; while others, may not. As a result, some students make swift progress, while others will take months of careful, patient guidance. One cannot push the voice; it must develop at a natural rate.

In all cases, it is the exercises and vocalizing which play such an important part in building the voice and developing good vocal technique. This technique is then gradually transferred to songs. Some students prefer to work with these exercises in private. If your student feels this way, it is better that he/she be left alone in the room while practicing. Several short periods of practice a day are recommended in the beginning rather than one long period. The purpose of the cassette tape is to use in daily practice sessions. The student should listen to the tape at least one between lessons. Continual practice is necessary for full benefit of lessons. Situations will arise when a student will not be able to practice as much as usual, and, in this case, the lesson will be a supervised practice session--not a missed lesson.

Not all students taking voice lessons want to become solo singers. However, many will find that, as a result of this training, they will be able to exhibit much more musical self-confidence. Many students have found this background has made them influential members of youth choirs, community church choirs, college vocal groups and participants in area community theater productions. In all cases they have gained a much deeper appreciation for all types of vocal music and music in general. Additional benefits of such training include a more-polished speaking presence and increased self-confidence in front of an audience.

Policies and Information:
It is our mission to provide quality instruction in the development of the voice and vocal technique.

Students will need a pencil, filled (tepid) water bottle and a good quality tape as well as the appropriate music scores for that lesson. All lessons will be recorded. Please purchase at least two (2) 60 to 90 minute tapes so that they can be alternated. Listening to each lesson at least once during the week will afford a clearer perspective on your progress and serve as a reminder of what took place in the lesson.

Music/books will be chosen based upon age and ability of the the student.

Should the Instructor need to cancel, lessons will be rescheduled. Should the student need to change a lesson due to illness or conflict, please contact another student and switch with them. A schedule of students and times will be posted. It is not necessary to notify the Instructor of the switch.