Lessons
Private singing lessons for adults & children over 10 years old.
Body-Led Singing voice lessons are based in SE Portland Oregon, taught both in-person and online. We train classical and non-classical singers to use their voices in a healthy, beautiful way that suits their individual style and goals with singing.
Online Lessons
I currently offer hybrid teaching both online and a limited number of in-person students. (If you are interested in in-person lessons I usually require at least 1 online lesson first)
To supplement virtual lessons, I created an online course so that my students would have recorded warm-ups and videos to work with outside of lessons. I was surprised to find that many of my students progressed just as fast online as in person. For some, it even accelerates progress. Some students appreciate the flexibility of remote lessons and find that they are more comfortable and free to make sound when in their own private space. Online students also, out of necessity, take more ownership over music-learning and remembering/taking note of the vocal warm-ups. This requires some level of commitment and patience but has obvious benefits.
Testimonials
Why I’m Passionate About Teaching Voice
It has taken me many years – decades – to unlock my voice. To be honest, the process is still unfolding.
Along my journey I experienced a variety of vocal problems of unknown origin that culminated in years of on-and-off laryngitis. I studied with an Alexander Technique teacher, and saw multiple speech therapists. However, despite mild relief, my efforts failed to illuminate the root cause of my tension.
Then, I discovered that I was tongue tied! My congenital tie was the invisible force keeping me from what I so badly wanted!
This discovery led to a download of information concerning the interconnectedness of oral and laryngeal muscles, resonance, breath and singing. I am infinitely grateful to the lactation consultant, Melissa Cole, who diagnosed my tie, to the highly skilled surgeon, Dr. Zaghi, who released it, for my oral myofunctional therapists, and for my singing teacher, Bryce Lupoli, who has been helping me unravel a lifetime of muscle memory. Because of these individuals, I get to experience the joy of singing with ever increasing freedom. I also get to share this knowledge and help others! It is a truly amazing gift!
Why is this relevant to you?
Working with my tongue tie has allowed me to develop ways to help students release tension by targeting specific oral muscles for singing, while relaxing unnecessary muscles. This is relevant whether or not a student is tongue tied. I understand the frustration of being asked to do something that may not be possible for your anatomy, and the risk of non-specific instruction feeling like criticism. This is why I am specific, receptive and flexible. I recognize that as a singing teacher I am working with anatomy that is connected to a person’s subconscious awareness. For this reason I intentionally choose words that will empower my students. I also emphasize the importance of body-awareness and, speaking one’s truth, which serves as the ultimate guide toward a free voice.
Oftentimes we tell ourselves that if we cannot sing like our favorite singer, this is a reflection on our inadequacy— but it's not! Whatever the reason, tongue tie or something else, I can guarantee you that challenges with singing do not stem from an overall lack of worthiness! Also, it’s never too late to begin. Vocalizing is a basic way that humans process emotions. We don’t have to be superstars to experience the daily joy that comes with an unencumbered voice. Regardless of how we compare to others, we all deserve the tools to sing with ease and power.