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RJ H.

RJ H.

“Making Goals & Meeting Them”

  • Located in

    Portland, OR, 97209

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Call us at

800-252-1508
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  • About
  • Photos & Videos
  • Student Reviews 2
  • Availability
  • How It Works
  • Map
  • General Info
    • TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      Our rigorous hiring process requires a completed application; an interview with our professional recruiting specialists; personal and professional reference checks; and annual criminal background checks.
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    • Background Check Complete

      Criminal Background Check

      In order to ensure the safety of our students, all teachers undergo a thorough criminal background check, which includes: Social Security number trace, multi-state criminal search and a nationwide sex offender registry search.
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    • Levels: Beginner to Advanced
    • Ages: 5 & up
    • In-Home Lessons: Yes
    • In-Studio Lessons: Yes
    • Online Lessons: No
    Subjects Taught In Person
    Singing, Broadway Singing, Speaking Voice, Songwriting, Acting
    Education

    DePaul University (2003-2007)
    BFA in Theatre Studies

    Lee Strasberg Institute (2006)
    Training in acting, camera, and voice

    New York University (2006)
    Guest fellowship in Dramaturgy

    Old Town School of Folk Music (2008)
    Studies in songwriting

    Dell'Arte International (2009-2010)
    Certificate of training in clown, mask, melodrama, movement, and voice from School of Physical Theatre

    Specialties
    Live Performance
    Lesson Details
    As a teacher, I strive for the highest standards of professionalism and discipline. I take each student's time, money and progress very serious, no matter their level of training or experience. I consider myself to be an invested and enthusiastic, albeit never patronizing instructor. Depending on each student's own personal goal and degree of bravery, they may begin to notice results within a matter of weeks or a matter of lessons.

    Performance craftsmanship, like most artistic disciplines, ...
    About
    Vocal and acting instructor specializing in live performance, with over eight years experience teaching students of all ages and backgrounds in both private and group environments.

    My lessons are a perfect fit for a wide range of performers: adult and young singers, instrumentalists, solo musicians, songwriters, actors and any other number of individuals who seek and investigation of their body as instruments of performance and sound. Those who seek early, intermediate or advanced training ...
    Equipment
    In-Home: I provide any research articles that I think will benefit the student. The only equipment I expect the student to provide is their body and voice. I will provide other equipment as deemed necessary.
  • RJ's Photos

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  • Rated 5 out of 5 by 2 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by RJ is wonderful! I am a new singer & felt insecure during my first lesson. RJ not only helped me feel relaxed, he also made it fun! The hour flew by and I learned a lot about myself as a singer in a very short period. He made it easy to remember why I wanted to sing in the first place & I found it easy to trust him. I would highly recommend him! December 11, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Vocal Student RJ is much more than "just" a Vocal Instructor; We just seem to have had an instant connection, and he truly understands the psychology of what I'm going through, musically (Very insecure about my voice, and stage presents). I feel totally comfortable around him, and I feel that I've had enough musical training (guitar and piano), to feel that I can accurately tell you that he is truly a "gift", mentor, and friend, and I am VERY confident in all of the different aspects of vocal performance! I am learning from him! I can honestly say, that if I had been given any other vocal instructor, instead of RJ, I feel that the Vocal Lessons would just be "surface teaching", and not go nearly as in depth as RJ goes with me! I feel that RJ really cares about my vocal endeavors, and my love of singing, , as well as coming to terms with, and accepting my problems and limitations, with RJ's guidance! He is giving me much more confidence that I've had in years, about my vocal ability, and has made me face the facts that I am way too negative in my opinion of my own voice, and he's also helping me find my own "style", which is very important to me, as well as not "living in the past, as far as my vocal abilities go. You really have a gift, and a true asset, having RJ as a Vocal Coach! He is honestly, a great (an very gifted) instructor!!! Deborah Engle :) July 8, 2011
  • Getting Started

    Excited about jumping into music lessons? Before you can get to the guitar tabs, violin concertos, and vocal riffs, take a moment to think about the logistics of your lessons.
    Lesson Length
    There are a few things to consider when choosing between 30-, 45- or 60-minute lessons. First and foremost, take your age and experience level into account. You'll also want to think about your long- and short-term goals, and the time you'll need to reach them. Most importantly, consider how long you or your child is able to stay focused.
    Lesson Location
    Teachers have the option to display availability for in-home, in-studio, and online music lessons. In-home lessons take place at your house, in-studio lessons are conducted at the teacher's home or professional studio, and online lessons are taught over the internet via live video chat.

    Book Your Lessons Online

    Scheduling your lessons is simple and quick! The prompts will guide you through each step, from securing your lesson time to selecting the payment plan that works best for you.
    Scheduling Lessons
    After you've selected your teacher, click on the Availability tab to see which time slots and days are open.
    Booking Options
    Click the "Book Online" button to get started. Enter in your contact information, and the prompts will guide you through payments, program options, and confirming your schedule. Learn more about our booking policies.
    Payment and Billing
    We make paying for your lessons convenient and hassle-free! Prices vary based on several factors, including the city you live in, the length of your lessons, and whether you're taking them at home, in your teacher's studio, or online. Lessons are paid for in advance, which locks in your time slot.
    Signing Your Customer Agreement
    Signing your Customer Agreement and completing your Student Questionnaire is the last step! The questionnaire will give your instructor valuable information about your goals and experience level, and give him or her time to create a customized lesson plan right from the start.

    Start Your Lessons

    Now the excitement can really begin! Consider the following to ensure an exceptional first lesson...
    Prepare for Your First Lesson
    Once you've completed the last step, your teacher will call you within the next couple of days to confirm your first lesson time and provide you with directions to their studio, if needed. We also encourage you to discuss your goals and any other questions you may have.
    What To Expect
    Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an assessment of where you are in your studies. At a beginner level, you might review the basics of your instrument, such as the different parts, how to hold it correctly, and proper care and maintenance. For voice, this may be the time you learn about breathing and posture.
    Reach the Goals You Set
    Every TakeLessons student is unique, and so is your lesson plan! You'll work with your instructor to develop a plan suited to meet your specific goals. Most TakeLessons instructors will also keep track of your progress with a lesson journal.

    Programs & Pricing

    The billing management tools in your online account help you keep track of your upcoming payments. And with several lesson programs available, you can select the one that fits your individual needs.
    100% Money Back Guarantee
    If you're not completely satisfied with your first lesson, we'll gladly find you another instructor or refund your entire lesson purchase.
    Can I pay when I get to the lesson?
    In order to reserve your time slot, we require payment at the time of booking, which must be at least seven days before your first lesson takes place.
    How does billing work?
    Lessons are paid for in advance, which reserves your time slot and the teacher that you want. Your specific billing date will depend on the lesson program you select.
    What forms of payment do you accept?
    At this time, we accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You also have the option to pay with a debit card. We do not accept payment via cash, check, or money order.
    Do you offer a free trial lesson?
    We don't offer a free trial lesson; however, we're so confident that you'll love your lessons that we offer new customers a 100% Money Back Guarantee. If you take your first lesson and decide that you don't want to continue, we'll refund the amount you paid INCLUDING the lesson you've already taken. To request the Money Back Guarantee, simply notify us within 72 hours of your first lesson.
    Do you offer any discounts?
    At this time, we don't offer any discounts. However, if you are booking two students for consecutive in-home lessons, you'll only be charged one travel fee, instead of one fee per lesson.

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