Voice Lessons in Newington, VA

Instruments: Guitar Voice Keyboard

My formal education in music started in high school ... later ... I won a scholarship to attend Cornell University (1973) where I was admitted to the music department where I studied keyboards, operatic voice, music theory, arranging, orchestral scoring and conducting. While receiving Classical training at the university, I also lead a 12-piece band ... performing jazz and rb around upstate New York and surrounding areas. After college I arrived in the DC metropolitan area where I have performed on many stages ... both with an accompaniment band and solo ... opening up for artists such as Steve Oliver, Nick Colionne, Jeffrey Osborne, Joyce Cooling and others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Cello Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Every lesson plan I make is customized to a student's interests, learning needs, and age. I combine a combination of technique focus and repertoire learning in each lesson. As students progress, their plans are updated to reflect their growth as a musician. I like to involve students directly in the goal planning process and keep them regularly updated about where they are on meeting their goals. Furthermore, teaching sustainable, healthy, and effective practice techniques is a core part of how I teach. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

In lessons, I strive to keep the atmosphere collaborative rather than dictatorial. I encourage you, the student, to ask questions, and I believe it's imperative for you to understand why what you're learning is important. I do my best to make you feel comfortable trying new things and making mistakes. Ultimately, learning vocal technique requires a delicate balance of putting your trust in the teacher without abandoning individual thought. Knowing this, I try to engender the necessary trust inmy knowledge while collaborating with you to incorporate your own words, metaphors, thoughts, and feelings into your approach. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 15 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my in my studio for the last 10 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for their instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn as well as sing . Read More

Instruments: Voice

Mandy, an active performer and teacher, has been teaching in the Washington DC area for 2 years. In addition to holding a studio in the DC area, Mandy also directs a children's choir and is a part of the classical music scene as a performer. In summer of 2012, Mandy was a studio artist with Chautauqua Opera for their summer season and has a large resume of other operatic performance experience. She has a wide knowledge base of music, but specializes in Classical, Jazz, and Musical Theater. **Photo by Roy Cox Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I believe making music fun can keep students motivated and improve their skills. When you love music, you are more motivated to improve. I also believe music is based on a lot of techniques. In order to express your feeling through music and have more fun, you will need to practice to mature the technique. Practice makes perfect!!! I believe that everyone is unique. I encourage my students, but insist that they need to learn something new every lesson so they can get closer to their goals. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I have a very large tool box of methods, strategies and exercises. I like to begin by hearing from my student what the specific goals are. I put together a structured plan specifically for that student, so we can work toward achieving those goals. Lessons are often structured in 2 parts: 1) actual singing and song work, 2) exercises. The exercise portion can include ear training and sight singing components as well as vocalises. Read More