Top Singing & Voice Lessons in Childs, MD

se who are practicing regularly and did a great job in their lesson. Lessons are a time where children can feel like music really is fun and enjoyable to learn and experience!

In addition to being a teacher, I am also a singer/songwriter, and performed for 6 years at local coffee shops and outdoor events within Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey. I am also a member of a local professional caroling group called Yuletide Singers which performs seasonally in places like Longwood Gardens and corporate functions. My history for performing stretches back, though, to my years as a puppeteer/children's performer, touring with a team doing school assemblies and evening family performances. I'm always excited to bring my understanding and experience with performance to my students!

**And, with excitement, I must add that TakeLessons named me "Teacher of the Week" on October 4, 2010! What a great honor! Thank you TakeLessons!!**

*** Lesson Details ***
Our time spent together will be filled with many smiles & laughs because that is probably why you want to take lessons -- because it makes you feel wonderful inside!

Within 3-6 months, we'll begin discovering how to read music and understand the language of it. We'll learn how to play/sing some of your favorite songs and learn some that you might not know. We'll discover what you really want to learn and achieve through taking lessons, and we'll work toward those goals!

For the intermediate piano student, we will begin understanding basic Music Theory and scales and will even take a look at how chord symbols work. Soon, you'll be learning how to accompany yourself and others as you sing! For singers, we'll learn about vocal techniques, breathing, getting your best vocal sound and discovering how to take a song to its potential! We'll also learn performance techniques, how to work with a microphone, have a great stage presence in front of a live audience and begin learning how to read music and even get familiar with the piano keyboard! For all my students, it's a journey that is exciting, unique to each individual, and one we will embark on together!

Because music is a performing art, I coordinate two music recitals each school year for students who are interested. This is an optional event, but is encouraged as part of the learning experience. It is usually held at a local firehall and presented in a low-stress and fun way with refreshments that follow!

*My studio is in a safe, family-friendly home & smoke-free environment. We also having a loving canine member in our family... a Yellow Labrador Retriever named Maximus. He is energetic and friendly. You may or may not see him since the entrance to my studio is through our back door, off the main house.

So! What do you say? Shall we START THE MUSIC? :)

Find me on Facebook: Valerie Bailey Music, for more photos of my fun recitals!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Lessons are enjoyed in a dedicated music room; keyboard (full-size with weighted keys and sustain pedal)

*** 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 music education for all children, including ones with special needs. I feel it is so important for a child to start out with a fun and wonderful experience with music and performing. My approach is simple and fun and understandable for the young mind.

For my more intermediate students, I enjoy taking them to the next level of understanding in their instrument as well as music theory.

Because music is a performing art, I coordinate two music recitals each year for students who are interested. This is an optional event and presented in a low-stress and fun way!

s in Early Childhood and Elementary Education at West Chester University.

I served on the faculty of Suburban Music School for 17 years where I taught voice, piano and recorder lessons. I also directed the Children’s Choir and the Women’s Choir. I was formerly on the faculty of Delaware County Community College where I taught courses in the Music Department; and of Temple Music Prep where I instituted, developed and maintained a vocal program at Temple University’s Ambler Campus.

In addition to teaching I was employed for eleven years as a chorister at Christ Church Christiana Hundred in Greenville, DE where I have had the opportunity to sing for such notable conductors as John Rutter, Sir David Wilcox, Sir Philip Ledger, Stephen Cleobury, and James O’Donnell. Previous choral work has included singing for Dr. Ifor Jones and for Michael Korn. I perform in solo and chamber music recitals throughout the Philadelphia area and in Cape May, NJ and with a Celtic group called Celtic Women and Friends.

*** Lesson Details ***
Voice Lessons

When you study voice with me, you will start with the basics - posture, breathing and tone production. If you have studied before, we will review these areas and brush up on anything that needs work. The next step is to learn some vocal exercises to warm up and develop your voice. When the exercises are going well, we will begin to work on songs. You will need to learn some classical songs because they help to develop your voice, but we will also work on the kind of music you like best. In addition to songs, we will work on solfege (do, re, mi, etc.) which helps to train your ear and to improve your sightreading ability. If you don't know how to read music I will teach you that. If you read music but have some gaps in your knowledge, we will fill those in.

I teach what is called bel canto (beautiful singing). It is a healthy vocal technique that will help you avoid vocal problems. When you learn to sing with this technique, you can sing any style of music you want. After a few months of study, you should be able to tell that your voice is growing stronger, that you have better breath control, and that your range is increasing.

Although I have high expectations of my students, I am relaxed and friendly. If you love to laugh, we will enjoy that together!

Piano Lessons

When you study piano with me you will enjoy playing a variety of songs from your lesson book. As you advance, we may add a repertoire book which increases the number and variety of songs you play. There are many excellent piano methods. I use different methods for different students, depending on their needs.

Lessons will include posture and proper hand position, warm-ups, songs and music theory. Music theory is the study of notation and how music is put together. You will have a workbook with exercises for this study. If there is a particular style of music you would like to play, we will look for music at your level to add to your lesson. After a few months of study, you should know how to read basic notation and be able to play a number of songs. You will also have increased your knowledge of musical notation and harmony.

I expect my students to practice in preparation for their lesson every week. I am relaxed and friendly, so that should help to put you at your ease.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano, music stand, stereo equip, seating for parents

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in teaching the bel canto style singing. With this technique, a person can sing any style of music she or he chooses.

d rave reviews for her “musically impressive” and “soaring” performance from The News Journal. Alexis will be staring

In theater, Alexis has played both comic and serious roles, including a striking female interpretation of E. K. Hornbeck in Inherit the Wind. Alexis has also worked in film, recently completing the production of Dead on Delmarva, a zombie-comedy-thriller produced by Arkham Productions.

In addition to her acclaim as a performer, Alexis gained recognition for her work as a choral conductor, working at the New Ark United Church of Christ and the Church of the Advent in Kennett Square, as well as vocal coaching with The Tatnall School. was the music director for the production of Les Miserables at Mt. Pleasant High School. Alexis currently works at the St. Anthony's Cathedral in Wilmington.

When speaking of her career, she comments, “Performing music and drama is not just a passion for me; it’s my sense of purpose. Whether I am working on a role, singing in an opera, developing a character, teaching a student, whatever the artistic avenue. It completely fulfills me. ”

*** Lesson Details ***
Alexis teaches proper singing technique and support through the Bel Canto philosophy of vocal production, and specializes in Classical, Opera, Musical Theater, and Jazz singing styles. Sight singing skill work is also offered and will cover basic music theory in addition to solfege music reading techniques. Alexis offers audition preparation services such as audio recording and transposition for her current voice studio students, for an additional fee.

In addition to vocal lessons, Alexis is pleased to offer beginner piano and music theory lessons. The piano lessons are geared towards singers who would like to learn to accompany themselves, or would simply like to be better at piano for rehearsal purposes. Music Theory lessons will be presented at the individual students level and will cover everything a student desires to learn, from basic rhythm and pitch reading through compositional theory.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Living Room: couch, computer desk, piano, studio bookshelf, room for parents to sit in on lesson

*** Specialties ***
Opera voice, musical theater acting and voice, jazz voice, classical voice, safe stage combat acting, diction and speaking, Alexander Technique, sight singing and music reading, basic music theory, audition preparation

oice and piano students ages 7-60. All of my students had varying styles, but I was able to help them build a foundation of technique that would allow them to sing with a free and healthy tone in any style.I believe we all have the ability to create music and I can help you discover it!

*** Lesson Details ***
My goal in voice lessons is first and foremost to establish a solid vocal technique.  My philosophy is "singing is simple, but not easy!"  We will focus mostly on two things: breath and space for singing.  This method of teaching is known as "bel canto".  It helps build a strong foundation that then allows you to sing almost any style!  Because everyone is different, we will tailor a set of exercises to fit your needs and will help you build that strong foundation!  Once these principles begin to settle in, we will work on music.  I have a huge library of songs to chose from, but I highly encourage you to bring in your favorite songs. Remember, everyone is different and progresses at different rates, but don't be discouraged! This is not a race, but a life skill that you will continue to master!

In piano, I am classically trained.  Through a series of music books, we will work on music theory, finger dexterity, music history, ear training, eye/hand coordination, and pure enjoyment of making music. Again, everyone is different, but with some outside commitment, you will improve! Classical piano training is a great foundation for all other styles, such as jazz, pop, singer songwriter, country, etc. Piano also helps with in other aspects of your life such as memory, math, history, reading, etc.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I have a full size keyboard and music stand.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Please provide a piano, music books, music stand (if needed), and a lesson book for notes.

*** Specialties ***
I am a classically trained baritone specializing in bel canto. I have found this technique to be a great foundation for all styles of singing, from opera to pop. I am also classically trained at the piano. I focus on natural hand positions, note identification, music theory, and ear training. And I have fun doing it!

ar recitals where students can show off their new skills

-I bring all materials to lessons for your convenience (excluding piano)

-singers receive recorded warm ups to practice with at home

-I am skilled at helping students with ear training if they need it for voice, most of my students can match pitch after a month of singing lessons no matter the trouble they have had before

-every student gets a "new student kit" at their first lesson including a list of performance opportunities and a vocal health guide for singers

-weekly instructional videos for voice sent

-weekly links to articles about music and the brain

-I respond to student concerns and questions within 24 hours

I welcome students of all ages and work hard to make music accessible for everyone.

-Young kids in voice can expect their lessons to be fun and educational including using visual tools like scarves and shakers, and imaginative play to learn vocal techniques needed to sing on pitch and with proper breathe control.

-Children in piano lessons will learn music theory and piano technique through simple songwriting exercises, theory games, visual tools and more. They will learn about composer's lives and musical styles, providing them with a well-rounded lesson experience.

-Older children and adult singers can expect to learn about their vocal anatomy in order to better control of their voice and become independent during practice sessions at home. They will learn how to improve breathe control, posture and diction. Time during lessons will also be dedicated to developing stage presence and discussing vocal health. Singers will be allowed to select repertoire from the genre of their choice. They can also learn how to harmonize and sight-sing in lessons if they would like.

-I teach beginning guitar students and help them learn how to play with proper technique and accompany themselves when singing. These students learn to read staff and tab and shape different chords on the guitar. I use theory games and visual tools for kids to make lessons fun

-Music theory/composition students will be taught how to read and write music. Students will be invited to improvise on the piano and record their improvisations.They will be taught how to sight-sing in order to learn how to notate any melodies in their head
They will learn how music has changed and been influenced throughout history. They will learn how to read lead sheets and use stylistic invariants in their playing. They will be provided with honest feedback and constructive help on their compositions.They will learn how the human brain processes music and how best to capitalize upon this process for the greatest audience appeal.

-I have experience teaching students with special needs and adjusting lessons to help them meet their goals.

About me!

I am a Westminster Choir College '11 Alum  who graduated with a Bachelor's of Arts in Music, summa cum laude. I also have my master's degree in music therapy from Drexel University. I am also a Member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing and a  Board Certified Music Therapist. During my time at school I performed at Carnegie Hall and the Kimmel Center, and did music therapy work with older adults, as well as disadvantaged children and parents.

I also have my own parent/child music class I host every Thursday September-May. It's never to early to start a music education!

I have been teaching for over four years and now have a studio of more than 70 happy students. Teaching music is my passion, and I love seeing students grow!

I often draw upon my experience from my master's degree in music therapy, which taught me that music can have a profound effect on the human brain and upon cognitive development.  My skills as a music therapist allow me to better understand a student's cognitive strengths and areas for improvement, and to develop individualized teaching strategies which utilize student strengths.

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studios are equipped with keyboard, guitar or piano, as well as a sizable repertoire of classical, broadway and popular music. ' I also have a mirror for voice students to see how their body is moving when singing and visual tools for students like scarves, whiteboard, markers, crayons...ect. I am more than happy to help students find any music they may need for lessons that is not already in my library.

I recommend the following books for piano students (listed by age):
Ages 4-6:
My First Piano Adventure, Lesson Book A with by Nancy & Randall Faber
Ages 6-12:Piano Adventures - Level 1: Lesson Book [Book]Faber Piano Adventures

Ages 12 and up:

Adult All-In-One Course: Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course, Level ...by Willard A. Palmer

Voice: Alfred's Teach Yourself to Sing
*** Specialties ***
I specialize in ear training, sight-singing and knowing and understanding vocal anatomy. Many of my students are students who have gone on to score lead roles in their schools or community theater performances, as well as lead singers of local bands looking to improve their techniques and improve their vocal health.

I specialize in theory and sight-reading for piano and theory students.

I also specialize in teaching those with special needs.

eless musical Cabaret. This production was on tour from December 2017 through May 2018 all across North America. Broadway.com's review praised the musicianship of the show, "Musical director Erik Flaten's musicians are impressive in their dexterity: At one moment, they are providing rich interpretations of the memorable John Kander score, while perhaps at the next they are playing denizens of the Kit Kat Klub or neighborhood thugs, wastrels and other folks of questionable repute. Flaten and his band are given their own richly deserved moments in the spotlight at the top of Act Two and the music director himself is given the well-earned final bow at the end of the curtain call."

Erik currently resides in Philadelphia, where he coaches and plays for a diverse range of singers. In addition to coaching and playing, Erik works as Music Director for musical theater, manages a private studio, and serves as Artistic Director of the Media Performing Arts Series. Previous successes include performances with mezzo-soprano, Angela Niederloh and baritone, Matthew Hayward in Portland, and a performance of the Grieg piano concerto with the West Seattle Symphony. Upcoming engagements on the East Coast include collaborative work with with soprano, Leah Golub.

Students of Erik have the opportunities to perform in studio recitals and workshops.

unique voice and desires out of their lessons.

Brittany is also available for beginner piano lessons. She has been playing piano since the age of 6, and has received formal training at the collegiate level. Brittany focuses on having fun, all the while training students to be excellent musicians.