Cicero Performing Arts Classes

o short films and started working on my own web series, about my life as a singer/voice teacher. I also have an art song project consisting of original material with composer Jaroslaw Golembiowski. As a singer and actress I have performed with many major theaters in the Chicago area, including Court Theater, Victory Gardens, National Jewish Theater, Bailiwick Theater, and Prop Theater.

*** Lesson Details ***
As a classically trained singer I will instruct you in all aspects of singing technique, from breath control and support to improving your tone, range, flexibility and resonance. I have recently completed training in Somatic Voicework, The LoVetri Method, which has enriched my understanding of the mechanics and health of the voice, as well as applications of technique to CCM or contemporary musical styles of singing.
My familiarity with a variety of musical styles from pop/rock, R&B, and country, to musical theater, lounge and jazz makes me an ideal teacher for those interested in contemporary styles.

I have spent many years developing my own style of singing and instruction. I draw on my experiences and training not only in music, but theater and movement, (Linklater, Alexander Technique, Grotowski) to create a well rounded approach to singing and performing. As an instructor, I am most interested in helping students find their true voice and artistic style. I teach students to find expression through and with a foundation of technique, rather then in spite of it. I also am very interested in helping students deal with the mental/emotional aspects of performance, an all important area so frequently ignored by music teachers. My style is nurturing, yet disciplined, and sprinkled liberally with good-natured humor."

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studio space is fully equipped with a piano, P.A. system with microphones, CD, MP3 player for tracks, and ability to record lessons if the student desires.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Please have a piano (in tune!) or keyboard for use in your in home lessons.

*** Specialties ***
I am classically trained, but I am very adept at teaching music in a wide variety of styles, including most contemporary styles of music including pop/rock, roots, swing, jazz and blues, country, r&b, and of course musical theater and cabaret. My band performs an eclectic mix of originals and covers in the roots rock genre, and I write music as well. I have many years of experience in the theater as an actress, and I coach acting technique and performance. I coach singer/songwriters, and all types of singers, of all ages. I have a workshop that specializes in helping people learn to perform better in front of an audience, and I host the Singer's Salon in Chicago, which is a supportive opportunity to perform regularly! I also coach bands, to improve their vocals, harmonies, etc.

les that may seem too hard to the student. I will start my students off with the basic vocal warm ups and then move on to material that they would like to cover and if so the student doesn't have material to cover, I will present them with material. Being a singer is not easy at all, so I will challenge my students by giving exercises that challenge them to sing for proficient. I will also bring in material that is brand new and ask the students questions about the piece. The student is in the lesson to learn everything about music, so any type of material that I feel will benefit them and help them move closer to their goal, I will definitely present to them. After 3 to 6 months students will be able to sing in the 3 minor keys and the major key. The student will also have knowledge and know how to sing at least 3 different modes. The singer will know how to read basic sheet music and perform it with solfege. The singer will also have 4 songs of my choice or their choice mastered and ready to perform in front of an audience. Lastly, the singer will have knowledge of proper breath control while performing, usage of a microphone, and intonation.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano/ Keyboard
Music Stand
Water

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in classical, gospel and R and B singing.

he knowledge of using there instrument properly and efficiently so that they may utilize their talents to their fullest potential. Through lessons with me my students will enjoy and flourish in using their talents and become confident in doing so. Both learning and performing should be fun and exciting and that is what my students should know, that I am here to have fun and to help you embrace your natural talents and use them with ease and comfort.
What sets me apart from other teachers at Take Lessons?
Well, I am here to help you find how you learn best and what you feel most comfortable with. You will learn about yourself, your emotions, what makes you who you are, and your goals. Once we find that, we will use that to bring out your strengths and help you thrive in all areas of your life.
My training includes, but is not limited to;
Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, Sherman Oaks, CA- Fitness and Group Instructor Certification and Personal Training
Act One Studios, Chicago IL- Acting, and On-Camera, Commercial Techniques, Film and TV
Visceral Dance Center, Chicago IL- Modern, Tap, Jazz
Ruth Page Dance Center, Chicago IL- Ballet, Jazz, Pilates
Lou Conte Dance Studio, Chicago IL- Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Musical Theater, Hip-Hop, Pilates, and Yoga
Oakland University, Rochester MI – Integrated Studies of Music, Theatre, and Dance, B.A.
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI & Flint MI- Music Education, Dance , Vocal Performance, and Acting
Major studies and supplemental continued education in Health and Wellness, Nutritional implementation and lifestyle coaching.
Also, a professional athlete and fitness model with Ultimate Fitness Events Ontario, Canada.

Though I am your teacher, instructor, coach and I am also a fellow performer. I understand that everyone learns differently and I try to take various approaches to help the student get the most out of each lesson. I encourage my students to be open and honest with me about each aspect or their lesson so that we can, together, tailor a lesson plan that best fits each individual.

I am also CPR/AED certified- this is just one way to make sure your child or you are safe while taking lessons while me.

*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons are designed to better the performances and techniques of a singer, dancer, or actor.
Techniques such as breathing, diction, pitch, tone, posture, rhythm, smoothness, and stage presence will be practiced. I do my best to develop lessons that are tailored to each student based on their individual needs. Lessons start simply with gentle vocal exercises based on humming and open vowel sounds. Each student can expect to be challenged through exciting a stimulating exercises. I also teach techniques to improve posture, poise and vocal performance. I enjoy using simple scales to improve pitch and volume while also working on clarifying the students voice. A students performance, whether they aspire to be a performer, teacher, or just enjoy performing should have a positive self portrait of themselves. We will work on building confidence so we as performers can take pride in ourselves and what we represent. My students are expected to practice outside of the lesson. I also encourage them to keep a practice journal of when and how long they have practiced. It helps the students to trouble shoot areas of their performance and take the opportunity to ask questions during the next lesson.
My students and I will strive to
- To develop an understanding of basic music theory.
- To take responsibility for their musical and vocal growth.
- To reach for improvement and not perfection.
- To work on the memorization of a performance.
- To try their hardest with each lesson.
- To come to each lesson with an idea of what they would like to achieve.
- To constantly sing correct pitches and rhythms in all songs/performances.
- To practice correct posture and breathe support.
Most importantly,
- To enjoy their performance and learn to embrace the natural talents they are given.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I work from a loft apartment, consisting of an area next to computer with a home recording studio area for music and keyboard. There is also seating for parents if they desire to attend lessons.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I highly suggest the student have their own keyboard/piano. I do have a keyboard and music along with theory books and lesson plans, but would expect a quiet work environment for the student to pay attention.

*** Specialties ***
In dance I am well educated in every area but my strengths include: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical and Modern.
In vocal performance and technique: Opera, Musical theater, Lyric Soprano and Alto
Music: Classical, Contemporary, Rock, Pop, Christian, Country, R&B, Hip Hop

in the public performance sector, have made me a highly sought-after coach for one-on-one and group training.

My approach is designed to train and condition the entire body as an instrument, not just the oral portion of the voice. My 5-octave vocal range makes allows me to easily instruct my students in developing their whistle register. I have been trained in (and teach) Classical, Appoggio, jazz/improv, Seth Riggs' speech-level singing and other methodologies of singing and speaking.

My method of assessing and meeting the needs of each student enables me to assist them in bringing out the very best in their capabilities. If you desire quality, effectiveness and noticeable improvement in your singing, writing, public speaking or overall performance, I am the coach for you!
Whether you are a beginner or professional, I make sure that you are comfortable and have a great time while learning. I am flexible with your needs so feel free to let me know what you want from your lessons and we can work towards your goal to your satisfaction.

Not only am I a coach, I’m a professional singer and public speaker, so I utilize and perfect my own techniques on a regular basis. I have the privilege of being a classically-trained pianist and vocalist, having studied at Sherwood Conservatory of Music, Vandercook College of Music, The Second City, University of Chicago, ETA Performing Arts Center and many other fine institutions.

Children love working with me because I make learning fun and they have a high retention rate of the techniques that I teach them. I am easygoing, funny and offer a minimalist, casual and relaxed environment for everyone. My adult students have a blast because our lessons feel more like a friendly visit with lighthearted humor.

*** Specialties ***
Pitch Correction
Whistle Register Development
Vocal Physiology
Overcoming Performance Anxiety
Accent Reduction
Repertoire Selection
Concert and Competition Preparation
Public Speaking
Physical Maintenance of the Vocal Instrument
Overcoming Speech Impediments
Stage Movement
Studio Recording Techniques
Songwriting
Image Development
Vocal Range Enhancement
Post-surgical re-immersion
Students with autism, down syndrome and speech impediments

Group classes are also available.

*** Lesson Details ***
Each lesson is tailor-made to suit the student's individual needs. Custom action plan will be given to each student on a case-by-case basis. No instruments are used in my lessons, as I train the voice to be a standalone instrument. However, if you would like to accompany yourself with a guitar, piano or percussion instrument, you are very welcome to do so.

I am available 24 hours a day for online coaching and as early as 7:00 am CST for in-person sessions.

*Please note that 15-minute sessions are ONLY available online. In-person sessions must be a minimum of 30 minutes. 31 and 61-minute sessions are ONLY for whistle register training.

Online Disclaimer:
When choosing online lessons, please make sure that your system is functioning properly, that you know how to use the platform, that you have a good internet connection and that you are logged in on time, as no concessions will be made for time used due to technical difficulties.

Timing Disclaimer:
Our time together is very valuable. If you are not on time for your session, the missed portion will not be made up at the end of the session. If I am not on time, I will make up the missed portion at the end of the session or alternate agreed-upon time. No exceptions or make-up sessions will be made for illness, weather, transportation issues (including car trouble), or any other short-notice reason. Rescheduled lessons must be made a minimum of 48 hours in advance and must be made up within the calendar week of the original lesson. If it is not made up within that week, it will still count as a paid session and cannot be made up at a later time.

anced lessons are available for voice only.

As partners, the student and I build a plan, balancing current aspirations with proven methods, keeping practical value in mind.

Upfront dealbreakers:
• Communication outside of lesson time will be mainly internet and email. The email address in your profile must be a valid form of official business communication.
• Students may not bring pets, children, or guests to the lesson. A quietly observing adult guest is welcome with 48-hour notice.
• My students know if they use too much fragrance, whether it be laundry scent boosters or hair treatments, they may be refused entrance into my studio. It's a big deal.
• You pay for any lessons not canceled or rescheduled before the 24-hour deadline, whether you attend or not. Do not be near me when you are contagiously ill. Ask me to forgive late cancellations caused by true emergencies, but realize I don’t have to.
• If you are a singing student, you need a place where you can practice. Prior to your first cancellation deadline, you must read the "Your First Singing Lesson" section found on each Singing or Voice Subject Page.
• If you want to learn how to read keyboard scores or understand how to play keyboard by ear, sign up for Music Theory. If you don’t have regular access to something that can legally be called a piano, including weighted keys and a damper pedal, sign up for Music Theory. Repeat: if you can’t practice on a real piano, don’t take Piano lessons. Music Theory lessons will probably teach you what you want to learn, anyway.

Ask me a question using the Ask-A-Question feature. Watch my videos and think about it. I'm a good teacher. I sincerely appreciate the time it took you to read my profile. Thank you.

m the ages of 8 and older. I'd love to meet with you to work on some pieces! Directing Resume available upon request.