West Hempstead, NY Speaking Voice Lessons

I have been taught & inspired by many gifted teachers/performers over the years, and I always hope that I can pass along what I have learned to other students. I received my MFA in Acting from the Actors Studio/New School (NYC), and I received my BA in Theatre & Vocal Performance from McKendree University. I also have training from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC and the Old Vic Theatre in London.

Because I have been taught a variety of techniques and styles, my teaching style combines all of those techniques. There are many ways to approach the art of performing, whether it be acting, singing, etc. And it is most effective for me as a teacher to provide you with as many techniques as I can.

I look forward to meeting you and working with you!

*** Lesson Details ***
First and foremost, I believe in working with you to create a relaxed environment where you can learn and grow as a student and performer. Performing (acting, singing, etc.) is about taking risks and looking inside yourself to create something bigger than yourself. Because of that, I always begin each lesson with some sort of relaxation or technique to get you focused.

I ask a lot of questions during lessons---some of the questions may not have one definitive answer. But I ask you these questions to get you to consider various things, think, ponder, explore, and hopefully, DISCOVER.

Because all students learn in different ways, and we all have our strengths as learners and performers, my lessons are different for each individual student.

But you can always count on:
-Learning a variety of techniques to help you with your craft.
-Beginning with relaxation and other exercises to get you released, focused, etc.
-Each lesson being a building block: We build upon what we learned in the previous lesson.
-Combining technical exercises (which I promise are always FUN!) with practical performance pieces (songs, monologues, etc.)

Our goal together will be to unlock YOUR OWN, PERSONAL TALENTS. And then, we will work to fine-tune those talents.

It is my hope that you will continue your desire to perform and share your talents with others. Also, I hope that you will develop a desire for life-long learning and that you'll eventually want to pass along your knowledge and training to others.

*** Studio Equipment ***
n/a

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide some materials (in terms of handouts, music, scripts, etc.). I expect you to provide additional music, which will be discussed. Also, if I travel to you and our lesson requires a piano, I would expect you to provide that. Thank you!

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in Musical Theatre/Acting. I am a firm believer in Method Acting Techniques, including sense memory---the result of these techniques is to bring more of the performer's persona into the performance itself. Therefore, I use exercises to enhance these techniques. I believe that the final performance should be creative and expressive, yet realistic.

Broadway/Musical Theater and any other vocal style!

Many, many of my students have gone on to place in the renowned Bergen County, North Jersey Regional, and All State Choruses and consistently receive leading roles in school, community, and regional theater productions! I also have current and past students who have gone on to have roles on Broadway including an upcoming production of Annie! I've also had students who have gone on to have their rock and heavy metal bands place in local and regional band competitions and be signed!

Whether you want to learn how to sing Karaoke better, audition for American Idol, prepare for auditions, or really seriously work on your vocal technique, i'm the teacher for you!

*** Lesson Details ***
Our lessons will be filled with music, support, encouragement and success! I teach to the whole student and we will get to know one another well so I can tailor your lesson specifically to your needs, goals and dreams! By taking lessons, you are taking an amazing step to improve not only your skills as a performer but also your self esteem! When you become better at an instrument or your voice improves so will your outlook! Its a natural fit!

Within 3-6 months, you'll have learned many standard warm-ups and vocalises that you can have in your back pocket for any opportunity that comes your way. If you are a singer, you will have learned how to breathe correctly for singing and implemented great technique into the style music of your choice. You will also have learned quite a few songs, starting from simple to more advanced as we go along!

For the beginner piano student, we will begin understanding basic Music Theory and scales. We will work on finger position and learn basic tunes starting with one hand at a time. soon you'll be learning how to play simple songs with both hands and accompany yourself as you sing along!

For singers, we'll learn about vocal techniques, breathing, relaxation and getting your best vocal sound and discovering how to perform a song with great diction and presence! 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!

All of my current students will say that they enjoy our lessons because each one is tailored to the individual and their goals. Its a wonderful and exciting journey that we embark upon together! I love seeing my students progress and learn over the course of our time together!

I encourage all of my students to get out and perform and i'm ALWAYS looking for opportunities for my students to do just that (unpaid AND paid!). Since music is a performing art I try to schedule two recitals a year with my students. These recitals are completely optional (but encouraged!) and take place in a local church hall or other performing space. They are done is a low stress and fun way ...and afterwards, i always provide some sweet treats for the parents and students that attend! Its a super fun way to display how hard my students have been working! Each student leaves the recital with their name and piece in a printed program and a certificate!

My studio is located in a safe, family home on a quiet street with ample street parking. The home is a smoke-free environment. We have a cute little Shih Tzu but not to worry if you have any allergies. He stays in his house downstairs and away from the studio and he never enters the studio room.

Let's make some music!

*** Studio Equipment ***
second floor up stairs, bathroom, desk, f/w keyboard seating for parents, method books, music stand

*** Travel Equipment ***
I will provide any necessary music books, pitch pipe, and possibly music stand. Student must have a keyboard or piano.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in the Bel Canto style of voice teaching. This means an easy and fluid voice that can be applied to ANY STYLE of music! Whether you want to sing pop, rock, musical theater, classical/opera I will help you to perfect your style and technique!

asize a strong practice regiment. Your child will understand that while learning music and an instrument can be fun, there will be some work involved if they want to become great. I usually use either the Alfred or Rubank method books to supplement a curriculum that I tailor make for each individual student. Any question or confusion a student has about anything during the lesson will be explained in detail and dealt with until he/she understands the concept. I've had many students pass all levels of the ABRSM and NYSSMA exams as well as receive academic scholarships for musical excellence.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Lessons in the living room, drums set, piano,

*** Travel Equipment ***
I require that students buy the books I suggest, but if it is necessary, I can provide photocopies of pages from the books that I own. I also require my students to provide all writing equipment.

*** Specialties ***
all methods and styles. I've played clarinet and saxophone for orchestras, symphonic bands, and jazz bands. I've played drums for jazz, rock, and acoustic sets.

ic dreams.

MORE INFO:
I have been singing since I was 3, anything and everything from Michael Jackson to Elvis Presley to Luciano Pavarotti. Originally from Colorado, I studied music/theatre, as well as vocal pedagogy at The University of Colorado at Boulder, where I graduated with highest honors. I made my Broadway debut in "The Phantom of the Opera" at age 24. I also performed in "Chess in concert" as a featured rock tenor soloist at the New Amsterdam Theatre on Broadway with Josh Groban. I have understudied and performed lead roles in the first AEA National Tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s "Whistle Down the Wind." Regionally, I have played many lead roles all over the United States in productions including "Les Miserables," "Miss Saigon," "The Wild Party," and "She Loves Me."

As an ASCAP recording artist, currently I am working in the studio with a full production team on my first pop/rock album. I also often sing on demos for producers and write songs for other artists in many different genres.

As a TV/Film actor, most recently I was on set with Marvel's TIARA 2 on Netflix. I have booked lead roles in 4 SAG-AFTRA short films, as well as the comedic lead in a SAG-AFTRA Web-series. I was called back for producers as a Series Regular for "The Knick," an episodic series produced and directed by Steven Soderbergh on Cinemax.

My audition prep will help you master your sides for any playing space; Broadway plays/musicals and especially on camera.

TIYA clients include (aspiring) Broadway performers, Film and TV actors, singer-songwriters, news anchors, dancers, comedians, CEO's all over the world, as well as karaoke enthusiasts, and songwriting hobbyists.

My TIYA members have performed on television in Smash, Glee, and venues around NYC ranging from The Underground, Le Poisson Rouge, Drom, Cornelia Street Cafe, Arlene’s Grocery, to the Broadway productions of Ghost, Sister Act, Evita, Wicked, West Side Story, South Pacific, The Phantom of the Opera, and Rent to name a few.

*** Lesson Details ***
We will always work on whatever you want.

For Singing, as a vocal technician/trainer I am like going to the gym for your voice. My exercises are safe, simple, and most importantly, I teach you how to practice correctly.

For ACTing, we can explore both the foundation itself with monologues and scenes, as well as the tricks of the trade mastering the camera frame and how to create memorable auditions for TV/Film.

For Songwriting, we can explore the fundamentals of both lyrics and music, as well as catchy hooks, production, and song structure.

You may use my time however you wish (Voice, Acting, Songwriting, or Artistic/Career guidance).

Most vocal sessions will usually be a combination of strengthening/ conditioning exercises, and then exploring/performing a song.

Most ACTing sessions will be theatre monologues, TV/Film sides and/or On camera auditioning craft.

Career consultations usually include how to get an agent, headshots, branding, and marketing to align your artistic dreams with a strategy for success.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Yamaha PSR 950 61-key arranger keyboard
Sony Handycam DCR-SR 100
Fovitec Studio PRO - 5' x 6.5' Gray/Blue screen
MacBook Pro 13-inch: 2.4GHz
with Retina display
Yamaha FG700S Acoustic Guitar
Bose Wave Music System
iPhone 6S plus

*** Specialties ***
SINGING, ACTING, SONGWRITING, CONSULTING

The TIYA vocal training method is uniquely my own as it combines both Bel Canto and Speech Level Singing. Emphasis is on developing a relaxed, released, authentic vocal timbre to sing in any style. Concepts explored include: Coordination, Registration, and Intonation. Chest, Head, Edge, and Pharyngel registration, 2 instruments in 1, posture, breath management, vocal cord adduction, trigger phrases, ring, consistency, and more. 

red on Channel 5 Good Day New York morning news program.

~~Teaching Philosophy~~

IF YOU CAN TALK YOU CAN SING and I guarantee it!!!!!

I teach beginners and advanced of all ages as well as all styles of music:

Opera - Classical - Musical Theatre - Pop - Jazz - Folk - Rock - R&B - Gospel

*I teach the freedom of the jaw, neck and shoulders to allow the breath to connect without tension allowing the production of a free vocal tone.

*Singing on the vowels with clean articulated consonants before and after the vowel is sung.

*Correct understanding and pronunciation of French, Italian, German and English languages

*Musicianship, theory, piano, all musical styles and song writing

*Performance and acting skills

*Audition techniques

*Career guidance

*Annual Student Recitals in professional New York City Venues

*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons take place at my home studio. Lessons may be recorded on my professional recording equipment or you may bring your own recording devices. This is an excellent learning tool. I teach my students how to extend their range, increase breath control and the freedom of their body in order to enable a free and easy produced vocal tone. I teach song repertoire to the student's particular musical style choices. I also work with students that wish to write their own songs so that their musical ideas can be heard clearly and precisely. A guitar is available for students if they wish to use it to accompany themselves. I teach my students how to deal with performance anxiety . Students are presented in recitals twice a year and performance classes are held once a month in addition to the private lessons.

IF you can talk you can sing and I guarantee it!!!! I teach beginners to advanced of all ages.

*** Specialties ***
Voice, Piano
I teach the freedom of the jaw, neck and shoulders to allow the breath to come without tension allowing the production of a free vocal tone.

Beginners and advanced of all ages. "If you can Talk you can Sing and I guarantee it!!!! Opera - Classical - Musical Theater - Jazz - Folk - R&B - Gospel - Country - Rock -

we find to explore! As of February 2013, I am also available through TakeLessons' online instruction program! Please find more information below and I hope to hear from you soon!

Thanks!

Zachary B.

A native of Charlotte, NC, Zachary began his musical career as a tuba player and jazz bass guitarist. While attending The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Zachary began singing in various vocal groups on campus and developed his love for the singing voice. With encouragement from the music faculty, Zachary began training as an operatic baritone while at UNC. While attending UNC, Zachary was awarded both the Fischer Scholarship in Voice and the Tony McDowell Voice Scholarship. His singing brought him to Boston in the summer of 2010 to begin study at The Boston Conservatory. While performing various opera roles and attending summer programs, Zachary also opened his private studio and taught at a local music academy.

Baritone Zachary B. is quickly establishing himself as an active operatic performer. Equally at home on the recital stage, his versatile lyric baritone voice fits a wide range of repertoire and styles. A graduate of The Boston Conservatory, Zachary has performed roles like the titular role in Don Giovanni, Ramiro in L'Heure Espagnole, L'horloge comtoise in L'Enfant et les sortileges, Pooh-Bah in The Mikado, and Bob in The Old Maid and the Thief.

Starting in February 2013, Zachary will also be available through TakeLessons for online instruction. Lessons will still focus on energy, breath, and solid technique, so please contact him if you think this venue of instruction will be a good fit!

*** Lesson Details ***
Regardless of your background, I believe in making lessons fun, encouraging, and accessible. This means that my work with you will, by nature, be incredibly personal and always formulated for your specific musical goals. I will constantly strive to make sure you are comfortable in our work together as we explore singing, speaking, and music theory.

I believe every singing or speaking voice can benefit from a foundation in classical vocal technique. Whether you prefer to learn through singing songs or through various exercises, I can customize our lesson plan to fit your needs. Therefore, I provide a fun and engaging lesson atmosphere, but you need to bring your best as well! We will both be happier with the process if we are equally invested in your growth. We will start with something you already know (an aria, vocal exercise, or excerpt from a song) and work toward singing in your preferred vocal style. For example, classical singers will build their knowledge of English, German, Italian, and French diction and song styles. Additionally, I will always respect and include my student's musical interests.

Along the way, I am happy to address basic music theory ideas. If you prefer, we can also spend additional time reviewing and learning those principles to enrich your musical experience. I will always provide different exercises and ideas to keep your brain active in the singing process.

I believe in whole body, whole spirit singing. As a performer, I employ a variety of holistic exercises and theories to develop my own voice, such as basic Alexander Technique principles, voice therapy techniques, a variety of pedagogical palates, and energy work. If these sorts of things interest you, I am more than happy to incorporate them into our lessons. My personal results with those practices have been incredible, so I am always eager to share.

My personality is outgoing and energetic, so I bring that sort of atmosphere to a lesson. I expect preparedness and readiness on your part to maximize our work together. My greatest desire in teaching is to see you grow! So, if a challenging, yet comforting, work environment sounds like something you would like to try, consider scheduling a trial lesson with me. I am always happy to hear from new students!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Open area between the living room and the dining room, seating available, piano to accompany the voice lesson, garage/driveway/street parking.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I prefer for my students to have a keyboard or piano, and if possible, a music stand. We can always make a situation work if the student does not have access to these tools. I provide music, pencils, etc.

*** Specialties ***
I am an opera singer, and specialize in classical singing. However, I apply similar vocal technique to all genres of music, and focus on breathing technique, body and energy awareness, and discuss a holistic approach to singing with all students.

lessons myself in NYC to always get better. I am trained in the classical methods, but happy to experiment with others. I believe a solid technique in any level is the foundation and then, if you need more expertise, I am happy to refer you to others I know who teach in that style.

Each lesson , depending on your age, will have some kind of technical work, such as drills, work on whatever level you are at in music theory, sight reading, musicality and all components that would make you a complete musician, as I have been trained You will also have some FUN because it just would get boring and then practicing would be a pain instead of inspiring you. Games, little fun tests spelling musical words and the like,.

*** Studio Equipment ***
So, yes, great equipment at various studios that I can teach at all over the NYC metro area. If curious, for piano lessons, can use a portable keyboard as well as a "regular " one :)

*** Specialties ***
Mostly classical, but have at times worked with some Broadway singers, got them to sing technically correct, then referred them to a more appropriate teacher.

h me, each lesson starts with an assessment. Then, we start with where you are at that moment and push your technique to the next level. Afterwards, I will send you an email with notes from the lesson and your homework.

My goal is cultivate your technique and discipline to take you to the next level of your performance.

*** Studio Equipment ***
-Digital piano
-Large mirror (to see your technique)
-Sound-proof practice room
-Parking

*** Travel Equipment ***
Digital piano for in-home voice lessons.

*** Specialties ***
Beginner voice for non-singers, new singers, or singers that have been out of the game for a while.

Audition prep for both film/stage acting and singing auditions. (Great results!)

e an indoor season during the winter months as well.

"Mr. Martin-Smith has been my director, coach and
mentor in productions and the classroom. His patience,
insight and his passion excites students, and makes
them feel safe and supported enough to take risks."

*Joseph H.
Shakespeare Theater of New Jersey
Pearl Theater Company
York Theater Company
Hudson Warehouse

*** Teaching Methods ***
I foster a safe, relaxed and engaging environment to explore truthful human behavior on stage.

The objective is 'the truth' to which end there is no one technique. Actors are encouraged to find their own tools and to draw from elements of different practices to discover a technique that works best for them as individuals.

I studied the methods of Constantin Stanislavski for acting with Sergei Pomerov of the Moscow Circus Theater. I am classically trained as well.

I work primarily as a guide to help navigate the way and to interpret ‘the signs.' I teach the lesson in the moment and address the challenges of both the beginner and the experienced actor.

***Classical Work***
My basic approach to classical work focuses primarily on the connection of the breath with the feeling on the word.

This is the foundation on which you can then build. From the ‘words’ to the ‘thoughts’ to entire ‘passages’ of text, as you work and explore, the richness of the playwright’s words comes to life. Your own unique emotional life is allowed to come through the text and you are able to fully embody the role.

*** Teaching Levels and Focuses ***
*Beginning Actors
-Work With Classical Text.
-Vocal Work.
-"Moment to Moment" Work.
-"Sense Memory" Work.

*Experienced Actors
-In depth Classical Text Analysis.
-Connecting to the Text.
-Audition Technique
-Monologue Coaching

ure and polish YOUR brilliance and how it shows up in Your Voice. What is the core of this brilliance? How do we access it? What part of it do you know and what part of it is yet to be discovered. It's a wonderful road, full of new possibilities. We will discover extraordinary things about your VOICE and your BRILLIANCE that you didn't know you have. Ready for the fabulous journey of discovery?!