Verona, PA Broadway Singing Lessons

Adia works with various jazz instrumentalists. She currently performs with the her Quartet which routinely features jazz professionals, instructors, and students from North Carolina and the US east coast on drums, bass, piano, and horns.

A native of Durham, NC, Adia holds Bachelors degrees in Music Education and Jazz Studies from North Carolina Central University and a Masters degree in Jazz Performance from New York’s Queens College. She was chosen as an outstanding performer by Downbeat Magazine in 2006, and was selected to participate in the 2006 Betty Carter Jazz Ahead International Jazz Residency and Performance Project. She was selected as a 2008 NC Arts Council Emerging Artist. Her sophomore CD, Take 2: Rendezvous with Yesterdays was well received internationally and reached the top ten on the CMJ jazz station charts.

Adia most recently was the featured performer for the 2011 Durham Arts Council Emerging Artist Ceremony and was chosen to be on the 2012-2014 Durham Arts Council CAPS rooster, bringing the arts to public and private schools. She also served as the music director for United Way’s “Shakespeare on Base” held at Fort Bragg Military Base in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am a laid back instructor with an incredible love for music. I will tailor each lesson to the needs of each individual student. I love teaching dedicated and diligent students. I am well versed in teaching various styles of music including but not limited to classical, jazz, and musical theater. I encourage my students to become musicians and not just vocalist. Each lesson will be comprised of a vocal warm-up, vocalizing exercises, ear-training, music theory, and singing. I will include a little history and diction when needed. When you study with me you will leave with the ability to sing any type of music of your choosing. I will infuse each student with my own passionate spirit for music. Lets sing!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room set up for lessons with piano and microphones. Parents are able to sit in on lessons.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can bring my own keyboard and tape/cd player. I would like for students to have a mirror and a cassette tape or other recording method for practicing purposes.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in Jazz Vocal Performance, though I was trained to sing Classical and Broadway music as well.

the voice, and usually within a month it will have improved by at least 4 notes either higher or lower.

It is important to note that learning voice is a highly individualized journey, each person will have their own set of strengths and weaknesses, as a teacher it is my job to asses this in a person and craft a curriculum, and style that will fit those individual needs.

I am also adept at navigating local opportunities for students in the Seattle Theater world. I have had students receive callbacks at 5th avenue, perform for Seattle Childrens Theater. Young Actors Institute, Driftwood Players, win multiple pageants and score high in talent as well as acting opportunities in movies and modeling. I am a performer as well and had to navigate through the college system as well as the Seattle theater system and can provide much guidance to those interested with resume, repertoire and audition coaching.

There is no feeling in the world than the freedom and beauty of singing, it is a joy to hear in my students, and very fulfilling to teach this kind of wonderfully positive experience to people of all ages!

I received my B.A. in vocal performance from San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2009. I am a classically trained singer, however I enjoy all genre’s of music and firmly believe having a classical base in a singing technique will enrich any style of music you wish to work toward. I am devoted to healthy singing, and unlocking your true timbre and voice with extensive breath, and vowel work. As a graduate from a highly competitive music institution I can help in guiding students along the right path of pursuing this art form at a collegiate level.

Theory/Song Writing techniques:

For some students learning music is just as much a part of the lesson as learning to sing. I love teaching people of all ages how to read music, so that the student can be an independent teacher for themselves and learn music on their own at home, this I think is very important in order to improve skills for singing, the faster the student can learn music, the more time can be spent working on technique and improving the sound of the voice.

I graduated from a prestigious Conservatory and had to take very advanced theory classes in order to receive my degree. I also played flute and oboe in orchestra for 10 years, and taught myself how to play piano. I have assisted some of my students interested in writing their own music on chord progressions, and have offered my musical expertise on their compositions. There is nothing like being involved in the creative process of composing and I love supporting my students that decide to explore this art form.

Speaking Lessons:

I have a studio in Bellevue where I work closely with the transgender community as a vocal coach to feminize my clients voices transitioning from male to female. It is a wonderful process and anyone interested please do contact me!

I also teach language diction classes. I am fluent in IPA (international phonetics alphabet) in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. I can help with accent reduction in English or pronunciation in any of the above languages.

A little bit about me:

“Playing alongside Drumheller were a number of young performers like Jordan M., who appeared as Cousin Hebe. A past member of Tacoma Opera's Young Artist Program, she is an emerging artist with a beautiful voice and very appealing stage presence who is slated to appear in several shows in the region this year.” whereissandy.com, Sandy McDade Chair of the ArtsFund Board, 2015

Soprano Jordan M. kicked off 2015 with a role debut of Nancy In Albert Herring with Vashon Opera. She was thrilled to make her 5th Avenue Main Stage debut in The Sound of Music, and to sing in Cry To Heaven part of 5th Avenue's New Works Department, which was a collaboration with writer Anne Rice and academy award nominated composer Matthew Wilder (whose credits include the music of Mulan).  She joined Tyrolean Opera this last summer on a full Scholarship in Maurach, Austria on Lake Achen (Achensee), in a role debut of Gretel in Humperdincks Hansel und Gretel. 

In 2014 she was excited to be in the world premiere of Yoshinaka, by Garrett Fisher with the Fisher Ensemble as Tomoe.  It was an adaptation of the traditional Japanese Tales of Ise, which made it’s world premiere at Seattle’s ACT Theater “Central Heating Lab Series”.  It was a noteworthy collaboration with Munenori Takeda, and The Takeda Noh troupe which consists of members who are Living National Treasures in Japan for their Noh artistry, this collaboration was featured on the front page of The Arts section of the Seattle Times.  

Other notable credits from 2014 include 2nd Lady in The Magic Flute,  Rosina, in Il Barbiere di Siviglia with Tacoma Opera and a recording for Kakitsubata, with The Garrett Fisher Ensemble for Jack Straw Production Studios.  In spring of 2014 Ms. McClellan sang Papagena and 2nd Lady with Skagit Opera, and  N.O.I.S.E. (Northwest opera in schools) for their Washington tour, as well as various Rossini arias with Bremerton Symphony, and two solo recitals with Second-City Chamber Series, and Music Northwest.  She also continues to be involved in recording sessions for Hollywood’s top video game soundtracks, including Starcraft and World of Warcraft.

Jordan is equally at home singing song repertoire as well as early music. She was chosen to participate in Lieder Alive! Singers Studio with Håkan Hagegård in San Francisco, CA where she delved deeper into lieder classics, culminating in a public masterclass.  Ms. McClellan has since been invited to sing several recitals with, Second City Chamber Series, in Lakewood, WA, Music Northwest, in Seattle, Wa, Hearthstone Chapel Recital Series, in Seattle, WA, Skagit Opera, at Lairmont Manor, as well as with Tacoma Opera.  Her recital repertoire varies from Italian Art Song, to Fauré Chanson, Lieder, American Songbook Classics, as well as Irish Folk Songs.  She has particpiated in Accademia D’amore, a summer program lead by Grammy Award winner Stephen Stubbs who is  devoted to educating singers about early music, baroque dance and rhetoric.  Most recently she participated in Bach Meisterkurs, in Leipzig Germany (Bach’s hometown) to learn the art of stylistically singing Bach’s passions.  

Past credits include a 3 month tour with Portland opera singing Hansel in Hansel and Gretel, Phylo in the West Coast premier of Pénélope by Fauré with Vespertine Opera, and her Italian concert debut in Urbania, Italy at the Teatro Bramante.  

Her upcoming engagements include, starring in a local independent film as an opera singer, a role debut of Adalgisa in Skagit Opera’s Norma, singing a solo recital with Music Northwest, a performance with the Fisher Ensemble at Folklife Festival, as well as a performer at the Sankt Goar International Music Festival in Germany.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I have a recording device, a piano and keyboard, a music stand, lots of music of all genres, a copier/printer, as well as access to making recordings of pieces so that the student can take it home (whether that is CD's or Mp3's).

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide a recording device, piano, keyboard, piano accompaniment (usually a recording), as well as copies of music.

If I travel to a lesson they would have to have a piano or keyboard.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in unlocking an individuals true singing voice,

I do have a 48 hour cancellation policy, I will allow one missed lesson to be reschedule but after that I will have to charge you if you continually miss lessons without letting me know.

, and Steve Mortier.

Melody has been a professional musician, vocalist, and actress since she was 16 years old. She began her career in musical theatre and graduated to film and television, starring in the independent hit "Down and Out with the Dolls." Her rolls in theatrical productions include Ti Moune in Once on This Island, Rizzo in Grease and numerable others. She has enjoyed a career as a professional vocalist performing in nightclubs, music festivals, casino's, and as an opening act for many national and touring performers. As a teacher, Melody draws from her experiences on the road, in front of the camera, and in the studio. She currently holds a Bachelor's of Music Degree from San Diego State University's Don Powell school of Music and Dance, and is a Certified SLS Vocal Technique Instructor. She teaches all ages, from young children to seasoned adults.

Personal Message: "Learning how to sing is fun!! It is also a lot of work. =) My goal for each student in every lesson is that they EXPERIENCE something new and better when it comes to vocal technique, and that they EXPERIENCE what I like to call the "happy music feeling." The perfect hybrid is when vocal technique is no longer an issue, and singing songs becomes effortless, joyful, and ripe for self expression and passion. This does not happen overnight, but with practice, dedication, and a patient impatience that keeps the student striving for perfection while simultaneously enjoying the process.

I teach all ages and I don't require an audition like many other highly trained teachers. I understand that you are coming to me to learn HOW to sing, and this is why I love beginners so much! I have spent many years studying to become the best voice teacher I can because I find teaching others the joy of singing incredibly rewarding. I understand the demands of a rigorous performance schedule, and I love the opportunity to help fine tune a working singer's vocal technique. Whether you are a beginner, a professional, or somewhere in between, I can teach you to sing higher, stronger, and faster with more ease than you probably thought possible. I look forward to working with you and your voice!"

Here are some nice things people have said about her:

"A rock chanteuse with a bold attitude and a set of seductive, versatile pipes. . "
-Anthony Davis Texarkana Gazette

The Forum Newsweekly
"Melody stands poised to take the national stage with a unique style and dynamic performing presence."

The Shreveport times
"She sat in for a set at the Noble Savage Tavern and as soon as she hit
that first chord and that first note, everybody stopped talking and
faces were pointed to the stage."

Dan Garner
Tipitina's

The Shreveport Times
"Whether she's playing solo shows or gigs with her band, [Melody] has a
keen ability to translate her emotions about dreams lost and chased
into bluesy, heartfelt, tumultuous vocals."

Michael Pickett
"Hey Melody! Thanks so much for jumping into the 2007 Lake Roosevelt
Musicfest. You were a huge hit up here!! The mayor was sitting around
with some of her volunteers and told me 'we think Melody takes
the prize this year'. It was just a great addition the event and you
made me look really good by just knocking everybody out like that! "

Personal thank you letter from Michael Pickett, promoter of annual Musicfest in Marcus, Washington.

*** Lesson Details ***

SKYPE LESSONS: Since I moved to Pennsylvania from San Diego, I have begun taking all of my lessons from Seth Riggs via Skype. I also maintained almost my entire San Diego student base by teaching via Skype, and in addition starting accepting students from all over the country and the world. I now have a very busy studio with an over 70% Skype student base due to the high demand for SLS technique and a balanced approach to singing instruction.
My youngest Skype student is 4 years old, and I recently held my first Skype Student integrated recital where online students performed live on a big screen from the comfort of their own homes! I'm constantly thinking of new ways to engage students from all corners of the world, create an online studio community, and offer performance and learning opportunities. Skype lessons are a great option for those without access to good vocal technique instructors or those who have tight schedules and prefer not to battle traffic on the way to the voice studio.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Keyboard, piano, microphone,
Guitars.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Will travel for:
Studio coaching for artist recording.

*** Specialties ***
Voice: I teach pop, musical theatre, Jazz, rock and blues styles.

programs which introduce children to music and theater in schools.   I was adjunct faculty at the College of St. Benedict/St. John’s University and local music studios as well as maintaining my private teaching practice.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am persistent and positive! Working and performing with singers and master teachers has helped me to be a resourceful teacher who understands the process of becoming a singer. I believe that a sense of fun and play helps you to accomplish your goals quickly.  For beginners you will learn how the voice works and how to care for and develop your instrument, I recommend adults take 45" - 1 hour lessons weekly for skill building. The price of lessons DECREASES by 10% after each 5 lesson purchased for the first 15 lessons. Studio policy is located at VaaraMusic.com. We will choose music that interests you and helps to build your voice starting with basics before moving to more complex and challenging music. Understanding music theory and sight-reading will help you get the most out of your singing. After 3 - 6 months you should have a good command of breathing and an understanding of how to sing with an expressive tone.For the advanced student, I can help you work on trouble spots and give you tools to help with the changes that voices naturally go through.  I look forward to giving you my full focus and celebrating your growth and accomplishments!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Condo w/ open area with piano. Visitor's parking lot w/ seating in studio for parents to listen. Parents with younger siblings can use play areas outside.
Basic library of vocal music, giving the student a way to sample different kinds of songs before purchasing books or downloading songs on their own. Music stand, iPhone plug-in/Amp for accompaniments and examples you want me to hear.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide a basic library of vocal music at my home studio and will bring targeted books with me. Students should print out their favorite popular songs from such services as Music Notes website.
I expect my students to provide a keyboard, music stand and notebook as well as a low distraction environment.

*** Specialties ***
As an opera and musical theater, Oratorio and church singer, I help singers of all levels improve within their genre from popular music to opera. A good singing technique will help performers in any style stay healthy and enjoy an expressive singing instrument.

us classical choral masterworks at Carnegie Hall in New York City! "How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, Practice, Practice!"

I've been playing guitar in various bands since a very young age and have recently begun work on my first solo studio album. I am the guitarist in the band Tonight Theater. The styles I enjoy include (but are not limited to) Rock, Jazz, Classical, Reggae, Punk, Progressive Rock, Metal, Experimental, Avant Garde, Pop, Funk, Blues, and Jam. I can assist you with chords, scales, rhythm, improvisation, sight reading and rocking! I can also sing in nearly any style and can help you to do the same.

*** Lesson Details ***
My lessons will guide you in becoming a well rounded and proficient musician. I strive to ensure your development of healthy technique and encourage you to practice consistently. My biggest commitment as your music teacher is to your steady forward progress. My lessons are specifically designed to solidify your comprehension and to enable your application of the skills being learned. Your music lessons will typically follow this format:

*Tuning of the instrument (if applicable).
*Ear Training: exercises and techniques to develop your listening and aural skills.
*Review of current assignments, techniques, and music theory concepts.
*Introduction of new concepts, techniques, and exercises.
*Work on current repertoire assignments. Songs are chosen by the student and the teacher and are level/age appropriate.
*Final thoughts on the day's lesson and a quick review of key concepts covered.

I look forward to helping you reach your dreams! No goal is too lofty! :)

*** Studio Equipment ***
There is a living room for parents to wait during the lesson if they'd like. My studio contains amplifiers, an upright grand piano, multiple acoustic and electric guitars, some computer recording equipment, and seating for parents to sit in on the lesson if they'd prefer.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Small Tube Amplifier, Music Stand, Tuner, Picks, Teaching Materials.

*** Specialties ***
I pride myself on my distinct ability as a rock guitar improvisor. Improvisation is at the core of my live performance. If you want to hear a song played the same way over and over again, listen to a recording. Live performance, to me, is about constantly providing new life and breath to the material being played. Each distinct performance captures unique attributes only available for channeling at that one moment and it will never be recreated.

ive collection of artists; Nestor Torres, Henry Jimenez, Celia Cruz, Carlos Ponce, Tito Nieves, Johnny Ventura, Camilo Sextos, Claudia Acuna, Jerry Barnes, Katreese Barnes, Gap Band, Motor Head, Matt Bianco, Chaka Kahn, Roberta Flack, and Bradford Marsalis to name a few.

I am comfortable teaching many styles of music and singing, namely opera, music theatre, country, and gospel. I will fine-tune your voice to fit the style of singing. After all, technique only exists to serve the style of the music in a healthy and beautiful manner. I grew up on these types of music and I understand the vocal demands of each one of them very well. I sing them all the time!

I am an experienced singer and I know the voice well. I understand its potential and its limitations. If you take lessons with me I will not only improve your voice, but I will also improve your vocal intuition. I will give you the tools to self-diagnose your vocal problems with good technique. I understand that learning how to sing with good technique can be a difficult process, but I have had many teachers and perspectives on teaching voice. With this, I can teach you to sing in a way that you will understand and find fulfilling.