Voice Lessons in Opal, VA

Instruments: Guitar Voice Keyboard

I have been teaching students since the mid 1970's and have found a few key ingredients. First ... I need to be engaged as a representative of the craft ... excited about music and ... most importantly ... excited about the fact that the student is about to take on this new and / or continuing endeavor! If the student feels that you are genuinely there for them, a 'comfort zone' is created for the student ... now there is an environment in which much production can be achieved ... and the student will be able to thrive! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice

For what I heard sounded interesting enough to give it a try. So I started to read about it and look for a teacher that specializes in this method. This was a game-changing for me and my voice. From that moment on I fell that my voice really "took off". I became very enthusiastic of this method and Ill explain to you a little about this method in "My Methods" Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For my vocal students, I start with vocal exercises every lesson and allow them learn to vocal techniques through different vocal exercises. Then I work with my students on the repertoire that they are interested in or repertoire that can help them practice their weak spots. For my piano students, I use many different series (Alfred's, Faber, or some classic repertoire) depending on their level and age. For all students, I will also include music theory when I teach because the students will have a stronger foundation with all of these components, which will enable them to learn better, faster and even by their own. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I have recently relocated to the Charles Town WV area from Vermont. I have been teaching voice since 1989. I deeply enjoy helping students find their voice and developing their authentic style. My music background includes a great deal of performing in oratorios, choral and orchestral concerts, small vocal ensembles, musical theater, and cabarets. I am a frequent soloist at church on Sundays, as well as for funerals and weddings. I have been Director of Music for a number of large Catholic Churches, a high school choir director, and a voice teacher at the University level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

During his time in school, Mike performed in a number of different groups. He has played in situations as varied as Orchestra, Big-band, African Drum Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Combo Jazz Groups, Gamelan Orchestra, Afro-Cuban Ensembles, and Mallet Ensembles. He also performed in freelance rock, jazz, jam, and improvisational groups. Mike began playing at age 7 on both piano and drums and started performing at age 14. Later he studied voice in college and picked up the banjo as another instrument to have in his repertoire. 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 for school years, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 17 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 the 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. Read More