Singing with Maria T.

Maria Elise T. is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana. She completed her Bachelor of Music degree while on music scholarship at Baylor University, and received a Master of Music in Vocal Performance at Louisiana State University, also with the reward of a music scholarship. While at Baylor, she studied with renowned voice teacher and pedagogue Dr. John Van Cura. She learned much of her teaching style during her time spent with Dr. Van Cura. She teaches a very thorough base for singing incorporating efficient, healthy breathing and posture. Maria uses her artistry and creativity to cater to the specific needs and learning specifications of each student, vocalists and pianists alike. Maria spent 2 consecutive summers with Des Moines Metro Opera. She has performed many roles, most recently the Miss Dara with the Ninth Ward Opera. She has also performed Mimi in La Boheme, the title role in Vanessa, La Contessa in Le Nozze di Figaro, and the title roles in both Floyd’s Susannah and Puccini’s Suor Angelica. Maria won 2nd Place at the Gulf Coast Regional Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions in January 2010. Called by critics a “thoughtful, powerful and thrilling” singer, she has been awarded prizes in other competitions, including the Lois Alba Competition, NATS, Entergy Young Texas Artists’ Music Competition and Festival Note d’estate a Campolieto. *** Lesson Details *** Student can expect a calm, intelligent approach to healthy singing, basic piano, and musicianship. After 6 months, a diligent student should have a solid foundation of the basics of technique, breathing, vocalizes, and posture. *** Studio Equipment *** Computer, Keyboard, Full Length Mirror! *** Travel Equipment *** I expect my students to provide their own voice recorders, so that they can listen to their lessons. It would be nice to have a piano or keyboard, but they are not necessary. *** Specialties *** I have sung and taught both classical voice and jazz/pop voice.