Opera Voice with Meg S.

At the age of 4 I began producing musicals in my basement with my sister. This progressed to acting classes, piano lessons, and eventually the school musical in sixth grade. I began taking voice lessons when I was in eighth grade and have never looked back. Through high school, I focused on both classical and musical theatre genres, having leads in high school and community musicals and operettas. While attending the University of Delaware for my Bachelor of Music, I majored in Applied Music: Voice and had the privilege of performing lead roles in Sweeney Todd, The Pirates of Penzance, The Marriage of Figaro, and Die Fledermaus. In addition, I performed two recitals. I was also fortunate enough to be a member of the University of Delaware Chorale, traveling to both China and Spain for tours and competitions. I then attended UD for my Master of Music in Vocal Performance where I maintained a full studio of undergraduate voice minors as a Graduate Teaching assistant. I took my first pedagogy class at UD and began teaching voice lessons at the Community Music School during my junior year. My experience as a teaching assistant shaped me into the teacher that I am today. I love teaching and helping students reach goals! With my thorough pedagogical training and varied performance experience, I have a great deal to offer my students. *** Lesson Details *** I strive to help students find a sense of freedom in order to share their uniqueness. During my time with you, I strive to assist you in taking risks, discovering the joy of music, and making progress with your singing. No matter what your goals are - All-State Choir, opera, musical theatre, or just having fun, I love helping you reach them. By looking at different genres of vocal music, we will focus on many different aspects of singing, from music theory, to expressive performance, to the foundation of healthy singing. I believe that every student is unique and learns in his or her own way. Therefore, I tailor the pace and focus of lessons on your interests and abilities. I believe it is integral for all students to have an understanding of music theory and therefore, work on theory and sight-reading. In addition, I think a well-rounded musical education is key, and will work on an array of genres with you including folk songs, art songs, and musical theatre. We will work on 2-5 songs at once, and will consider a song "learned" once you can perform a song from memory. Words are what separate the voice from any other instrument. Therefore, I will work with you on ways to examine the poetry and lyrics of each song in order to portray the message of the words. *** Specialties *** I feel equally at home working on musical theatre and classical styles with students. I have experience working on both with students.