Speaking Voice with Bridget H.

I have been a professional voice, music theory and piano teacher for the last ten years, and have loved every minute of it. I am originally from Canada, and went to the University of Windsor to study vocal performance. I was given an opportunity to the study principals of classical singing and musical theater. From there, I began to work as a featured classical soloist and choral singer throughout Canada. I came to New York to continue my studies, and earned a Master of Music degree in Classical Voice from the Manhattan School of Music. I believe that singing lessons should be a lot of fun. With good technique, my students and I can team up to accomplish anything from singing classical songs and even some opera arias to popular songs and musical theater. It is my goal to help you discover your own personal voice, and build confidence in your individual gifts. My students have gone on to study voice in college and university, perform in musical theater, sing in rock bands, children and adult choirs and even win a competition or two. I love hearing my students perform, and feel that an opportunity to sing in front of others builds confidence and ability. I take pride in arranging recitals for my students who would like this opportunity. *** Lesson Details *** My lessons with always begin with warm ups and technique. We'll also focus on an important principal topic, such as breath and support, vowel placement or expression. We'll use some exercises that I have already, or perhaps a new one just for your needs (once I get to know your voice) to help you achieve our goals. We'll then work on 1-2 songs. You'll probably have picked one, and I may have picked one. The concept that we worked on in our technique session will be applied directly to the songs you are working on. You can learn so many different things in each song, we may practice your songs, using a different goal in several different lessons. All of my students get a chance to perform in occasional "vocal class" settings, where you can sing your favorite songs for one another, in a fun, laid back environment. All students are welcome to participate in an annual recital for their family and friends too! Piano lessons are designed to suit your needs. We can work on the basics for classical playing, read chords, jazz improv and more. *** Studio Equipment *** I have my own music studio set up in my apartment. On teaching days, my living room can be a comfortable waiting room for parents/guardians. You are all most welcome to relax, have a cup of tea or coffee and listen to our lessons. I do ask that you do not sit inside the studio (at least not after the first lesson) as this can be distracting for your child. My studio is equipped with a music stand, upright piano, work sheets for theory, pencils and crayons. I also have a full Broadway and classical music library that students can borrow from, CD/DVD's that can be borrowed, and a New Grove Reference set. *** Travel Equipment *** I bring some music, until we assess the student's needs, then they may buy some books, while I provide the rest. I bring theory worksheets, stickers, pencils etc. If a student would like to sing/play a particular song (Broadway/pop etc) I may have it in my music library.If I do not, the student will need to purchase the music they would like to sing. The student would need a keyboard/piano in their home should I travel. I have a piano in my home. *** Specialties *** Classical singing, Musical Theater, Jazz, music for young children, pop singing, audition preparation, beginning music for adults.