Drexel Hill, PA Opera Voice Lessons

both), I tailor lessons to suit each student's needs. I would like to enable you to meet your musical goals, whatever they may be.

***Lesson Details and Recommendations***

Singing voice: I teach classical vocal technique with an emphasis on the body-mind connection. Through the course of my training, I have studied the Alexander Technique, which is a method that has been used by actors, musicians, and athletes to find optimal body-mind coordination to achieve better results. The voice is the only instrument that is literally your body, so we will be using these tools to improve posture, breathing, and resonance. By learning a healthy vocal technique, you can expect improved tone quality, an expanded vocal and dynamic range, greater resonance, increased agility, improved diction, and more. Healthy vocal technique can be applied to any genre, and I teach students who are studying a wide variety of music, but classical and musical theater repertoire is my area of expertise.

Speaking voice: I have had great success helping students who come to me for help with their speaking voices. As the speaking voice and singing voice use the same set of muscles, the same set of functional principles apply. I work with students to improve their posture, breathing, and breath support when speaking, as well as clear diction, better pacing, and conveying emotion and meaning. These tools also lead to increased confidence when speaking.

Piano: I am also an established piano teacher and have had much success teaching beginning and intermediate students from ages 4 to 91 in various styles of music. I believe it is important for students to learn how to read and interpret written music as well as understand the structure behind it, so in addition to learning musical basics, I incorporate music theory into lessons. I encourage my piano students to learn how to read lead sheets and create chord accompaniments as well, which opens the door for comfortably playing in all sorts of styles sooner than would be possible by classical approaches alone. I also work on improvisation and songwriting with my piano students, if desired.

***Lesson Recommendations***
I offer lessons in 30, 45, and 60 minute increments. These are the *minimum* lesson lengths recommended. Longer lessons are more beneficial, except in the case of children with smaller attention spans. A 60 minute lesson is the best choice for serious students (teenagers or adults).

Voice:
Ages <12 years: 30 minutes
Ages 12 and up: 45 minutes

Piano:
Ages <7 years: 30 minutes
Ages 7 and up: 45 minutes

Combination Lesson:
Ages <12 years: 45 minutes
Ages 12 and up: 60 minutes

*Please note: I do not reserve regular lesson times in my schedule for students who cannot commit to weekly lessons. With students who wish to take less frequent lessons, I recommend the flex plan, with lessons to be scheduled as we go at our mutual convenience.

***Educational Background***
Elizabeth holds an M.M. in vocal performance from West Virginia University, where she was featured in numerous WVU Opera Theatre productions and was the soprano soloist with WVU Choirs in Faure's Requiem and Handel's Lord Nelson Mass. While at WVU, Elizabeth resumed taking lessons at the piano, which she had previously studied for many years, and exceeded the piano proficiency level required by the university. She also holds a B.A. in music and international studies from Emory University. Elizabeth has studied and performed internationally, both at the American Institute of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria, where she was the recipient of the Lemmonds Scholarship, and at the Bel Canto program in conjunction with L'Arena di Verona opera company in Verona, Italy.

As a graduate assistant at WVU, Elizabeth taught voice lessons to music education and performance majors as well as a course on vocal pedagogy. After graduating, she served as adjunct faculty, in which capacity she taught vocal repertoire and opera theater. She has maintained a private studio since 2005, in which she instructs students in voice and piano. She has also held past teaching positions with the Meridee Winters School of Music and Woodland Country Day School.

***Active, Professional Singer/ Actress***
Elizabeth was most recently seen as Joanie in The Full Monty at Candlelight Theatre in Delaware. Other recent performances include June in Musical of Musicals: The Musical and Peaches/ Baby Jane in Jerry Springer: The Opera with Bootless Stageworks in Wilmington, DE, solo performances with the New Voices Cabaret at the Society Hill Playhouse in Center City, and Woman 2 in My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra with Mainstage Center for the Arts in Blackwood, NJ. She has performed numerous leading roles with Philadelphia area Gilbert and Sullivan companies, most notably appearing as Angelina in Trial by Jury with The Savoy Company, winning Best American Production at the 2011 International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival. Her G &S performance credits include the roles of Patience (Patience), Yum-Yum (The Mikado), Rose Maybud (Ruddigore), Phyllis (Iolanthe), and Fiammetta (Gondoliers). Additionally, she has pioneered roles in new operas, including Gwendolyn in The Crowded House at the 2010 Philly Fringe Festival and Zelda in Black Horses with OperaDelaware at the 2009 Wilmington Fringe Festival.

After that it is teaching the student technique and helping them through the growing process of their voice. This technique is for the healthiest kind of singing and will preserve the voice for a much longer time then would other styles of singing. That being said, a person can still sing other styles with a slight variation to the technique, but still keeping things healthy and feeling good.

I have added that I am willing to teach individuals who have special needs. I will say that where I teach does have stairs and is not wheelchair accessable. I am sorry about that. I do work at a school for children with developmental disabilities during the day and have been there for almost 4 years now. I have worked with adults as well as children. This has not been in a music setting, but I do have some ideas as to how to make it fulfilling for them as possible. That being said I will be honest with these individuals as well as patient. I believe that they should be treated equally and therefore will get the same level of attention as any of my other students.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am a fairly laid back teacher, with the philosophy that the student must find their own reason for practicing and work hard. If the student is a young child, I believe that they sing because they love to do it and that love should not be killed by becoming a chore. I would encourage them to practice more in the form of play. This is the work of children after all.
If the student is older, and at an age where they are more serious about the work that comes from learning how to sing properly. Then they should be able to find their inspiration for practicing. I am a firm believer that no one can change someone except for them-self.
The idea of a curriculum would of course differ from student to student, but it also differs with age. With young children, the first goal would be to see how well they match pitch, because it will be difficult to get the student to work on technique if they have trouble matching pitch. Therefore that would be my first goal. After that, I would test the students range and work on teaching them technique.
If the student is in the process of changing their voice, I will work on helping them through this change and help them to find their new voice. This is where the biggest chance of students loosing their real voice and starting to mimic other older singers. The fact is that, they will have a more mature voice in time, but they need to sing in their voice and the more mature sound will come. The main thing will be working on stretching there range little by little. This is because after the male voice changes, they tend to have a very small range. This would be the large overall goal to teach them to use their own voice, stretch their range, and learn technique.
If the student is in their upper teens, then they should have a larger range, but they may still need to find their own voice. The next part will be just teaching the student technique and stretching their range.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano and guitar

*** Travel Equipment ***
I could supply a keyboard if need be.

*** Specialties ***
Choral Singing, Classical singing, Ear training, and Musicianship

Musical "Mamaleh". Sandra has performed in over fifty productions of Musicals, Operetta, and Opera. Some of her favorite roles include: Aldonza (Man of La Mancha), Desiree (A Little Night Music), Marguerite (The Scarlet Pimpernel), Antonia (The Tales of Hoffmann), and Lauretta (Gianni Schicchi).

Most recently, she has performed the role of Lynn Fontanne in Ten Chimneys at Old Academy Players, and played one of the principal roles in Jacque Brel Is Alive And Well and Living In Paris at The Steel River Playhouse.

As a director, Sandra has staged operas for Center City Opera Theater, the Delaware Valley Opera Company, Boheme Opera New Jersey, and the New York Metro Vocal Arts Ensemble. She is currently singing concerts with the vocal group "Touch of Classics", and can be seen in commercials for Time Warner, Cuisinart, The Skooter Store, and Aspercreme.

*** Lesson Details ***
Our lessons will be relaxed and informal. My goal is to make you the best you can be. We will work on giving you a solid vocal technique so that you can approach any style of music with a good foundation. We will also work on learning to read music, and most importantly work on songs that will bring out the actor in you.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Small studio, keyboard, seating provided (couch), street parking

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in musical theater, classical, and opera. I can also teach German and Italian diction. My acting experience is mainly in musical theater.

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.

'13 under the tutelage of Catherine Cook.

One of the most important things that I have learned thus far, is that singing is a truly expressive art form that requires hard work, diligence, and commitment. It is my goal to bring each of my students the farthest I can in healthily developing their technique as well as work on the emotional portrayal and fundamental building blocks of music. Although I teach each student specific to his or her individual needs and desires, my lessons usually consist of three parts - technique exercises, sight singing, and repertoire. Furthermore, other things that stay consistent are a comfortable and safe environment for the student, my undivided attention, all the information that I have to share with others, and most importantly FUN!

Although it is my personal decision to pursue opera and classical music, I have experience in musical theatre and am comfortable teaching a variety of genres. I truly believe that although each genre is different, the foundation and principles of healthy singing are the same.

Not every teacher is right for every student. However, I do my best to give all my students lessons in a comfortable and productive learning environment. I hope that you will take the next step of your path towards healthy and beautiful vocal production with me. Thank you for your time and consideration and I hope to hear from you soon!

mpet” chair in part of Disney’s highly selective All American College Band.

After graduate school, I moved to the city of Chicago proper. For 3 years, I played trumpet and sang jazz standards most Thursday evenings at the famous Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, one of Chicago’s oldest jazz clubs. In addition to that, I helped start The Syndicate, my hip-hop brass band that offers a blend of funk, R&B and jazz. I also played with other groups such as Four Star Brass Band, and J-Livi and the Party, which released an album in July of 2016 called “Come and Share My Life," whom I still play with.

In addition to playing trumpet, I also am an accomplished classical singer, presently predominantly performing with the Crossing, a Grammy Nominated professional chamber choir conducted by Donald Nally. This 17-18 season, I'm singing with Consprirare, Apollo’s Fire, The Crossing, Vocal Arts Ensemble (Cincinnati), Variant 6, Madison Choral Project, ekmeles (NYC), and Choral Arts Philadelphia. Recently, I made my debut as a soloist with the Philadelphia Orchestra performing Chris Deviney’s “Pat Metheney Concerto.”

I love teaching. I go into every lesson with the belief that the student is there to learn; if they weren't interested in learning, they wouldn't be there. Because I have always had diverse musical interests, I create a stress-free atmosphere for my students by allowing them to pursue whatever avenues of music interest them. My degrees may be in Jazz Studies and Performance, but I have extensive experience with Classical and Popular music; I provide a unique perspective and enthusiasm to every student.

bert Directed & performed the Title role in Opera Seabrook’s Rigoletto - October 30, 2013.
Robert began his vocal studies in the studio of Dr. David Blackburn where the young baritone began to develop as an Artist. Eventually, after 12 years of intense study and struggle, he won the National Metropolitan Opera Auditions in 1979. This achievement led to his eight-year twenty-seven major role career at New York City Opera under the leadership of Beverly Sills. Since that time, Robert's vocal artistry has been showcased in nearly every major opera house in the world. From Milano, Palermo , Rome , Barcelona , Lisbon , Nice, London , Santiago , Toronto , and Montreal to Los Angeles , San Francisco , Chicago to New York (Metropolitan Opera and New York City Opera) Robert has performed such major roles as Rigoletto, MacBeth, Scarpia (Tosca), Tonio (I Pagliacci), Germont (La Traviata), Iago (Otello) and many many more! With a ready repertoire of over 83 major roles, Robert continues to delight the world with his artistry.
Robert is also renowned as an important Conductor – thanks to the intervention of the great Maestro Nello Santi, major Italian operatic Conductor. During his performances of I Pagliacci in Palermo, Maestro Santi insisted upon Robert conducting the pit Orchestra during rehearsals (1986) which began a second career of Conducting for now Maestro Robert.

About Trumpet:
Having begun his musical career as an exceptional trumpet player through the Training of Harry Herforth in Shaker Heights of Cleveland, Ohio, & after winning several Trumpet Contests in the region, Robert was awarded the opportunity to play with the Cleveland Orchestra in 1963 at the age of 12 as co-first 4th chair for one full season.

ave taught kids, high schoolers, and young adults, but I feel comfortable teaching all levels! I can also teach piano to beginner and intermediate levels.