Here are some of the most frequently asked questions I receive:
1. What does a lesson consist of?
That depends on your goals. Voice lessons help vocalists to increase vocal range, smoothly navigate the break between head and chest voice, build vocal stamina, increase knowledge of musicianship to enhance expressivity, learn coordination of mixed voice and belt, master multiple musical and vocal styles, analyze text and music, build a rep book when needed, understand musical styles to target song choices toward desired roles at auditions, gain confidence for live performance, and over time achieve technical and artistic mastery.
2. How much does a lesson cost?
An hour is $75. With most private teachers in New York charging between $95-$200 per lesson, I thought long and hard about my rates. I decided for me, it is extremely important to be affordable and accessible. I care about your development as an artist and I understand what it is to have the urgent desire to improve but not necessarily the disposable income.
My rate for gender affirming care is $45/hour.
4. Do you offer packages or discounts?
If you cannot afford my services- contact me. I offer a certain amount of sliding scale spots for those in financial need especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community, folks on a fixed income, BIPOC individuals, disabled or chronically ill individuals and families in financial need. I will never ask for proof of income and I’m happy to work with you. ❤️
I also permanently offer a discounted rate on my services for gender affirming voice care!
I do not offer discounts on lesson packages. Paying the full rate allows me to offer my services to folks who cannot afford them for free or at deeply discounted rates. You are welcome to pay ahead for lessons, but I request that you use them within 12 months. Pre paid lessons are non refundable after the number of lessons plus 4 weeks has elapsed.
3. How often do I need to take a lesson?
That depends on your goals. I do not see regular students less than every other week each month, but every week for an hour is best, especially when you are just starting out. I do offer a la carte "coaching" sessions as well. These are especially useful in dispelling pre audition/ pre studio nerves. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will be!
5. What kind of singing do you teach?
My main focuses are Musical Theatre for adults and kids, Contemporary Commercial Music artists and those who have always wanted to sing, but didn't know where or how to begin.
I offer lessons for Musical Theatre, Pop, Rock, Country, R&B and coaching for choral/sacred music singers. Previous students have been cast off broadway, in national tours and in regional theatre. I coach many recording artists on developing a unique and cohesive album sound. Those of school age have also performed professionally in New York and regionally, won NATS competitions, been All State Choir members and gained entry into numerous competitive collegiate and high school performance programs.
6. What technique do you use?
Some teachers have a certain technique or method and they use the same system to all their students. I prefer to customize your tools to your goals, no two students will have the same lesson, because no two singers have the same voice. I believe in keeping an open mind about healthy singing, I don't believe there is a right technique, only the right technique for your goals and unique set of habits. I have been trained classically in the Bel Canto tradition, I'm also a Somatic Voiceworks, The LoVetri Method ™ Certified teacher. I've sung professionally in Opera, Musical theatre, I've worked as a recording artist and even sang in a punk band. Yes- I belt! I'm also a professional actor who has studied Stanislavsky, Adler and Meisner techniques. I admire the work of John Henny, Aaron Hagan, Jeannie Lovetri and Justin Stoney and have either studied with them or have studied their methods very closely.
7. What ages and experience levels do you teach?
ALL OF THEM! I have students ranging ages 8-72 with experience levels and goals ranging from " I want to win a Tony" to " I always wanted to be a singer and I figured I would learn now that I'm retired." Please, don't feel intimidated, I believe in you, and I'll be happy to support and instruct until you believe in yourself. I've had students come to me believing they were "tone deaf" who are currently working as professional singers and performers.
*Some voices and personalities are too young to need private instruction, but I do specialize in school age performers who have a passion and desire to learn to sing and build fundamental knowledge of music and performance.
8. You seem kind of serious, would you be a good fit for my child who just wants to have fun?
YES!! Over the years I have observed innumerable benefits of learning performing arts skills in a supportive environment during the crucial preteen and early teen years. Benefits such as increased self esteem, ease of forming new friendships, developing confidence in ones ideas and willingness to share them openly. (P.s. Adults, in my experience, you'll get these sweet benefits too) I also have years of experience directing and teaching at Children's theatres. I love kids!
9. Are you a performer as well?
Yes. I’m a songwriter and studio musician and I perform with several different bands. In addition to teaching I have worked professionally as an actor, director, entertainer, composer, recording artist and film producer. I draw on my wide breadth of creative experiences when I am teaching. I can help you achieve your ambitions, I've been through the process, I know what it takes.
10. Will you come to my house?
No.
11. Do you teach Group lessons?
Not ususally. As with most things, I would be willing to have a conversation about what that could look like. For example, Group lessons work well if you're a band, who would like to make your sound more cohesive, well blended or complimentary. They also work well for children who are looking for something fun to do together while learning. With Adults, I've found private instruction works best.
12. What's your cancellation policy?
If you cancel same day, you pay for the lesson. Otherwise it’s 24 hours. Family Emergencies and unforeseen illness excepted. Please be respectful of my time as I am of yours. I reserve the right to discontinue a working relationship with those who habitually cancel. I invest alot of time and energy into my students. My hope is that you will take the work we do together seriously.
13. Do you offer Zoom or Facetime lessons?
Absolutely. Over the years I’ve worked hard to perfect my methods for remote lessons including making special materials for students who take them. They are just as effective as in person lessons and i’ve had many students on a purely online basis. There is no discount for online vs. in person lessons
14. Where are you located?
I am located in Manhattan, NY, on Claremont Avenue near Manhattan School of Music and Columbia University.