University Park Performing Arts Classes

ation (ISMTA), a member of the West Suburban Chapter of ISMTA, as well as a member of National Association of Teachers of Singing. Most of my students are high school aged, but I have taught from ages seven through 70. My students regularly achieve MTNA's Music Achievement Award, are selected for District Choir and All-State Choir, as well as receive leading roles in high school and community musicals.

PHILOSOPHY

I believe that singing does something to words which nothing else can--it puts feelings to music. Everyone has feelings, and everyone can be musical. Those who pursue their vocal education can be rewarded with confidence in their ability to sing. The goal of my Studio is to promote the study of music, and to create a musical environment at each lesson so that every person's individual potential can become realized - all while having fun!

My Studio provides a nurturing environment for all singers, from beginning to advanced, children to adults. I will help you develop and maintain your vocal health, expand your vocal range, and develop your musicianship. You will learn to integrate a coordinated process of breath, pitch and tone, while exploring your vocal potential in a wide range of contemporary and classic musical styles. Teaching proper vocal technique is my primary goal with every student: fixing what is being used incorrectly, and enhancing what is already done well. I will work with you on any style of repertoire you desire: classical, opera, Broadway, jazz, folk, etc. I love it when a student wants a variety of song! And if your music theory skills are weak, we'll take care of that, too!

LESSONS

Children eighth grade and younger should sign up for half hour lessons; students high school and older should sign up for 45 minute lessons.

I am so excited to share the joy of making music with my new TakeLessons students! We get right into breathing, first thing. Once that is right, we can turn our attention to what's going on with the throat and mouth. All the while, we are learning songs by which we can practice whatever we're working on in the exercises. Everybody's different, with different tensions, both proper and antagonistic. We isolate the muscular tensions that are interfering with your perfect sound, and go from there!

*** Lesson Details ***
Come prepared to make a lot of noises with which you don't normally sing! We will explore every sound you are capable of - there's something to learn from most of them! Obviously, we'll concentrate on the ones we really want to sing with, while using a myriad of vocal exercises.

My studio brochure will explain many of the nuts and bolts of our lessons, and any expectations regarding practicing, keyboard ability and access, and how we work home practice when you don't know how to play piano. Generally, we spend about half the lesson time on warm ups/exercises, and half the time on songs. Sometimes we memorize them; sometimes we polish them; sometimes we just learn them quickly and move on to new things. Each lesson is a little different, depending on what I'm hearing from you that day.

I'm always happy to help you with school/church solos, audition material, choral parts, etc. Otherwise, we will choose repertoire together, taking into account your goals and interests, along with what makes good teaching material. Come join the fun and make some music!

*** Studio Equipment ***
My basement rec room serves as my teaching studio, so there are stairs with which to contend. Parents may stay either in the studio, or up in my living room to wait. The fully equipped studio contains a piano, audio-visual equipment for recording and play back, music stands, stools, a comfortable couch, and even a sink for quick water drinks! (Singing can make you thirsty!)

*** Specialties ***
In my 30+ years of teaching private lessons, I've amassed quite a toolbox of eclectic musical resources. That said, I still find muscle manipulative exercises while vocalizing to be the quickest route for most students to have success in building their long term voice. So I utilize those techniques frequently. With proper, healthy vocal production, a student can sing in any genre they choose. I am very concerned about producing a healthy voice with a free tone, particularly for children, so that all students can go forward into whatever style they choose with good vocal production.

ongly believe that music has the power to change lives – to enhance the social, cultural and spiritual lives of people, and serve as a profound medium of personal expression. Professional perform experience: The Chicago, Natalie Cole, Smokey Robinson, Three tours with Moody Blues, YoYo Ma etc....
The most important thing I look for in a student is communication skills, as well as talent. I like to nurture students and help identify their individual strengths, which is a key factor in shaping a musical persona that will make its mark both on and offstage. I do not advocate a uniform technique for all students. Physical differences and learning styles are always taken into consideration. Potential is as important to me as early achievements and experience. My goal is to help students become self-sufficient, discriminating artists. I discuss practice techniques often and develop individualized scale routines. I encourage initiative and expressive musicality as well as precision. Above all, music needs to bring obvious joy to the student, regardless of the difficulties.”

*** Lesson Details ***
I use Suzuki and traditional method for my students... for Suzuki beginner they will play a song in four days....

*** Studio Equipment ***
In-Studio- Lessons in separate music lesson room, piano and violin are available. Students and parents will enjoy comfortable and clean studio environment with recent remodeled new hard wood floor and studio patio window over looking at beautiful garden. Free WiFi available for parents while waiting during the lesson appointment.
University of St Francis Joliet- can teach in rehearsal rooms at the university.
Online class at world class teaching studio

*** Travel Equipment ***
violin, viola, cello, piano and guitar

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in Suzuki teaching method for beginners, traditional conservatory method for intermediate and Royal conservatory recital program for advanced level students..I also teach orchestration program to help students prepare their auditions for major symphonies through out the country including Chicago symphony orchestra 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

. I also train business owners, salespeople and those who are simply terrified to present themselves in the art of public speaking.

This is NOT your average coaching session! This is for those who are ready to finally overcome the world’s #1 fear: PUBLIC PERFORMANCE.
Get ready to present yourself, business, product or service with confidence, personality and effectiveness.

My lighthearted and humorous approach to seemingly stressful situations, especially 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 allows me to easily instruct my students in developing their whistle register (see special pricing for whistle training). 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 6:00 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.

ng and performing.

n my spare time as a creative director; the music and commercial dance industries are my specialties. I look forward to working with bright young artists and anyone else who wants to learn new technique!