Vocal Philosophy

When I am asked about my teaching philosophy, I usually reply that, "Good singing is good singing." Good singing starts with the proper alignment and breath management skills. Once a student has been introduced to these concepts and is able to show progress through repetition and practice, these skills will help a singer achieve beauty of tone and smoothness of a phrase. Once students have practiced vocalises/exercises which aid these techniques, we can apply their skills to age- and skill-level- appropriate repertoire. Whether students have a desire to obtain a college scholarship, audition for a chamber ensemble in their high school choir, audition for a school or community musical, or simply strengthen their voice, I am happy to help them select appropriate repertoire suited to their range, ability, and personal taste. It is important that a student develops a connection with a song and enjoys performing. The development of students' ranges and vocal strengths over time will allow their true potential through repertoire to develop, helping them to see a potential niche or type of performing role they might fit into.

Student Honors/Awards

I have enjoyed helping high school students find their most powerful voice in order to audition for local musical theatre shows, college scholarships, and local and state competitions. Recent high school students have been admitted into the music departments of the following schools:

Belmont University
Lee University
Liberty University
The University of Montevallo
Samford University
The University of Alabama
Elon University
Mississippi College
Judson College
Reinhardt College
Interlochen Academy of the Arts

Students have also participated in local and state competitions, and have been awarded the following:

Top 10 Semifinalist at the 2015 Miss Alabama pageant
1st place among upper high school women in musical theatre, Alabama National Association of Teachers of Singing Competition
3rd place among 1st year college women, Alabama National Association of Teachers of Singing Competition
3rd place among upper high school women in musical theatre, Alabama National Association of Teachers of Singing Competition
3rd place among upper high school women, Alabama National Association of Teachers of Singing Competition
Finalist in the Schmidt Youth Vocal Competition at Georgia State University

Rates

I offer individual private lessons, based on acceptance after initial meeting and audition.

In order to reinforce technique through muscle memory and repetition, weekly lessons are advised. Lengths of lessons are customizable in order to accommodate students' needs, and takes into account how much repertoire they need to learn and for what purposes. Rates will be discussed after contact, determination of goals and frequency of lessons.