Voice Lessons in Van Nest, NY

Instruments: Voice

I have been teaching voice on and off for the last 15 years. I have always enjoyed the process. More recently I have had the pleasure of conducting several masterclasses in China, where I was made an honourary professor, University of Toronto and Gordon College in Massachusetts. I have been singing professionally for 10 years in places like the Met and the Canadian Opera Company. I have also had the pleasure of working at the English National Opera and the Bordeaux opera Company. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Piccolo Music

For Beginner students I have them start with the recorder. The instrument allows for a smooth segue to the flute being that the student can see their fingers and the recorder does not require the same air speed and lung capacity that the flute does so the student can pace themselves. For intermediate or advanced students I will go through orchestral excerpts, etudes, or technical studies with them. I follow the same model with my adult students, if they are just starting out I will recommend beginning on recorder to solidify fingerings however the mental and physical capacity of an adult versus a young child are very different. Read More

Instruments: Voice

It really doesn't matter how quickly or slowly does a person learn. What matters is it's done positively and it should be lively! We are making music and it shouldn't end up becoming boring, sad or depressing! I ensure that the student enjoys every moment of the lesson. The only thing I request all students is to find some time to practise. That is the only way that we can get what we want. Read More

Instruments: Voice

For younger students, I believe learning basic music theory is a great foundation for understanding music and will overall help your musicality. Scales and warmups are extremely important in a new student as well, as they develop your voice and breathing in order to sing more challenging material in the future. I really enjoy the book "Singing Lessons for Little Singers" as it provides a great background on theory, breathing, and correct vocal placement. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Music had always been a passion of mine since I was a child. I began voice lessons at the age of 14, and in high school began to train with Mr. Lawrence Lohman. Mr. Lohman conducted the Kingston High School Choir, as well as taught voice classes. Through his teaching, I was able to develop my voice. In May of 2012, Mr. Lohman took me to New York City to work with David Leighton, the youngest assistant conductor for the Metropolitan Opera. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I do not stick to one method or style of teaching as each student is different. A twelve-year-old student who wants to write songs, and sing Taylor Swift, will need a very different approach than a fifty-year-old opera singer. However, I do implement two very important key points in my teaching: Honesty and health. This is done by first making sure the artist (I prefer to refer to my students as artists as a sign of respect, and because I’m learning from them as well) has proper technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

Between undergraduate and graduate schooling I honed my teaching craft. I taught lessons to a wide variety of ages and ability levels. I also taught public school for a non-profit organization called Education Through Music in the Bronx. At the graduate level, I play with the New Music Ensemble, Robert Dick Large Flute Ensemble, various chamber groups, and orchestra. I also continue to perform in New York City with the Brooklyn Wind Symphony Read More