Benson, MD Broadway Singing Lessons

's important for a singer to not only know how to sing, but to also understand the music he or she is singing. I will incorporate music theory into the lessons, starting with basics such as learning how to read notes.

I believe in making sure the singer is comfortable and confident.  The environment you will be learning in is open and non-threatening because a singer needs a place to explore his or her voice.  I encourage my students to make mistakes and to keep the lines of communication as open as possible.  Singers are perfectionists, and we're constantly telling ourselves what we do wrong- we don't need someone else enforcing that negativity.

I concentrate on a classical vocal technique, with proper posture, efficient breathing, lack of facial and body tension, and healthy vocal production. I believe that it is important to have a strong foundation of healthy technique no matter what style of singing. My teaching style and lesson focus will be different for each individual person, and I'm very flexible in adapting to each singer's needs and personality.

I am a very understanding teacher, and very patient, but I will push you to work to your potential! What you put into these lessons and your practicing is what you will get out of it. I am not strict, but I do expect dedication, passion, and respect. I am a very enthusiastic and energetic teacher, and lessons with me will be fun, productive, and encouraging.

If I sound like the right teacher for you, please arrange a trial lesson to see how well we work together!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room, piano, full-length mirror, comfortable seating for parents

*** Specialties ***
*Teachers classified as a Student Favorite have taught a minimum of 25 lessons and have received the highest feedback rating from students. I specialize in classical singing- applicable to any style of singing!

e encouraged to take risks, try new things, make mistakes, and most importantly be themselves.

I value the time I have with my students and expect each student to come prepared to each lesson with an open mind and willingness to work. With music, the best results come to those who put in 100% both during lessons and during individual practice time. This is key in any musical pursuit. Overall, I want lessons to be enjoyable while still maintaining a sense of progress for the student.

Here's a little more about me:
In 2005 I made my operatic debut in Italy with Operafestival di Roma in their main stage production of Mozart's Le nozze di Figaro. While in Rome, I was also featured in Pergolesi's Stabat Mater. Over the years I've been featured as a soloist in other concert and oratorio works such as Villa-Lobos's Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5, Rutter's Requiem, and Mozart's Requiem.

Along with my classical training, I've taken on several roles in musicals such as, The King and I, Guys and Dolls, Oklahoma, and The Boyfriend. I am an honored NATS (National Association for the Teachers of Singing) competitor, Peabody Scholarship recipient, and Bland Music Scholarship recipient. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with the Richmond Philharmonic Orchestra on their spring and summer concert series and was asked to perform the National Anthem and God Bless America at Game 2 of the ALDS during one of the MLB's 2014 postseason games (Baltimore Orioles vs. Detroit Tigers). When I'm not singing, you may find me enjoying a run through the neighborhood, or enjoying some time with my cat CJ.

I earned both my undergraduate and graduate degrees form the Peabody Conservatory of Music of the Johns Hopkins University.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Family Room: seating for parents
Studio space with piano, recording equipment, and parent seating available.
**PLEASE NOTE I have a cat in the home**
*** Specialties ***
Voice and Piano Lessons
Classical, Musical Theater, Pop, Jazz, Soul, and Country.

ven though I'm a professional singer myself, I believe that the point should always be to enjoy singing, and whether your goal is to make money as a singer or to feel more confident doing karaoke (both real things that have brought students to me!), I want you to have fun doing it. I also want to show you that singing is a skill, and anyone can learn to do it.

*Note about my apartment: I teach lessons in my home, and I have a pet kitten. She's extremely friendly and would love nothing more than to bask in your attention, but if you'd prefer not to be around her or you are allergic, it's no problem at all. I'm happy to make sure she's kept in a different room during your lesson. All you have to do is let me know before your lesson that you'd prefer not to be around her, and you won't see her at all.

aker I know has lost their voice at some point, but not from talking too much. It's because they don't know how to use their voice properly. Learn that, and you need never lose your voice to over-use. That's easy to teach.

Writing – I have been a professional writer and editor for over eight years, with many books, articles, posts, newsletters, etc. to my name. I use – and teach – practical grammar, not just correct grammar. I can also help you make your words more powerful.

you!