Singing with Ashley B.

ABOUT ME Singing is my greatest passion, and I love to share that passion with my students. In my studio, we work to develop solid singing technique, so that the student is free to be expressive. I like to use kinesthetic tools to help students connect with their bodies and understand and feel the mechanisms behind vocal production. My students also learn basic piano skills and basic music theory. In my lessons, I take an individualized approach so that each student's particular needs are met. We can explore whatever sort of repertoire/style the student desires, whether that be classical, musical theater/CCM, or jazz, though repertoire choices will be chosen to suit the student's current level/ability. In my studies, I have taken courses in music theory, music history, physiology and anatomy of the voice, diction, and acting. Although my training is advanced, there is always more to learn, and I am always looking for new opportunities to continue my own education. I am currently a student of Dr. Kari Ragan, who is a renowned voice pedagogue, and I have worked with a number of excellent coaches around the country, including Phil Kelsey, Dean Williamson, and Timothy Cheek. I have a particular interest in Czech music, and I went to the Czech Republic in the summer of 2013 to study the vocal music of Moravia. A typical lesson starts with a short warm up (though your are encouraged to come to your lesson already warmed up, if possible), followed by vocalises that encourage and teach good technique. Then we move onto repertoire, where we will try to incorporate the techniques learned in vocalises into the music itself. We will also work on diction, expression, style, phrasing, breath management, etc. STUDIO POLICIES A hard copy listing my studio policies will be provided at your first lesson. Please come to your lessons ready to work and make music! I don't have any particular requirements for practicing outside of lessons, but I do ask that you do enough outside your lesson that we can make progress during your lesson. I will help you come up with a practice regiment that will be most beneficial to you and your schedule. Absence/Cancellation Policy: In the case of foreseen conflicts, like family vacations, school functions, special occasions, etc., cancellations with no penalty are allowed as long as you let me know before your first lesson of the month. In the case of illness, I understand that it is often difficult to decide whether to skip a lesson when you are sick, but if you are well enough to go to school/work, you are probably well enough to come to your lesson. If you have a cold that does not affect the vocal folds, there is likely still good work we can do, and progress can be made. If singing is not an option, I am happy to construct a lesson focusing on artistry, ear-training, music theory, or any other skill you would like to work on. Feel free to contact me if you need help deciding. Should you decide to cancel, my fee will still apply if there is less than 24 hours notice. If I must cancel our lesson due to a performance or other conflict that I know of well in advance, I will gladly provide a make-up lesson, should our schedules allow it. Should we not be able to come up with a make-up lesson time, you will not be charged for that missed lesson. Any other absences will be marked as "missed," and you will be charged for that lesson time.