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M.M., The San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Vocal Performance B.M., The Eastman School of Music, Vocal Performance and Music Education
2013 - Brava! Opera Theater National Vocal Competition, Finalist
2010 - East Bay Opera League, Finalist
2008 - Vocal Concerto Competition, First Place, San Francisco Conservatory of Music
2006 - Performer's Certificate, Eastman School of Music
2002 - Ornest Award and Scholarship, Eastman School of Music, for outstanding achievement both academically and as a performer
I am an experienced and passionate instructor, committed to empowering my students and guiding them towards the fulfillment of their musical goals. I received my Masters of Music in 2009 from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and my Bachelor of Music Degree from The Eastman School of Music in 2006, specializing in Vocal Performance and Music Education. My primary focus as a teacher is to help each student build a healthy, solid vocal technique - one based in coordinated, released sound production - that will allow students to sing well in any style for years to come. I am an active soloist specializing in Baroque repertoire, and have performed with renowned ensembles such as The Haymarket Opera Company, The Boston Early Music Festival, The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Opera Siam (Bangkok), among others.
I began teaching seriously in 2009 following the completion of my Master’s Degree, though as an education major at The Eastman School of Music I did teach voice lessons to a wide range of students across the city. I was hired as a young artist with the Florentine Opera Company in 2009, and was afforded the opportunity through the company to teach master classes and private lessons to high school students interested in pursuing music as a career. My second year in the program, I joined the staff of a local music store, Brass Bell Music, where I taught private lessons for 3 years. By the time I left the store I was teaching upwards of 25 students spanning all ages and ability levels. Since that time I have begun building my private studio in Chicago. In addition to private teaching I have also held positions of leadership as a choral conductor and church music director. I believe that singing should be a joy, and that a love of music should be encouraged and nurtured. As such, I strive to be not only an instructor but also an advocate and cheerleader for each person I teach, regardless of their age and ability.
First and foremost, private vocal instruction offers students an opportunity to explore, learn and grow towards healthy, efficient singing and fulfilling music making. Depending on a student's goals, age and ability, the emphasis of each lesson may vary. Lessons generally begin with a "check in" of the student's work and experiences during the week. I focus quite a bit on body awareness, and often ask students to engage in dialogue with me regarding what they're feeling and sensing during singing. The "check in" is followed by vocal exercises, meant to teach and practice important technical aspects of singing. The remainder of the lesson is dedicated to work on repertoire. I encourage my students to explore a variety of musical genres - all kinds of music are welcome.
I am a fun-loving, energetic person by nature, and I bring that energy and enthusiasm to each lesson. Lasting progress with a teacher can only be made if a student feels comfortable and safe. Even as adults, we learn best and absorb information more thoroughly if we can make discoveries through play. I believe in creating a judgement-free, comfortable "work" environment, and building trust through communication and meaningful encouragement. I do not give false praise, and I do not have a personal agenda. My only goal is to help each student advance as they are ready, and to help guide them to their goals. I try and focus initially on what inspires each student so that I can tailor lessons to their wants and needs.