Music Performance with Tom S.

I have had a varied background growing up, from being an Eagle Scout, to holding a black belt in Judo.  Growing up in Arizona and being the youngest of three boys from a very musical family, I found classical music and it became my passion. I began with piano at age 9, while also sang in many church musicals.In 2006 I graduated from Northern Arizona University with two degrees: a bachelors in vocal performance and a bachelors in piano/choral education. At NAU, I sang in many operas and piano recitals and spent three months in Germany teaching choir through the Department of Defense.Shortly after, I graduated with a masters in vocal performance from Washington University in St. Louis. The studies I learned from Wash U catapulted my love for teaching!Recently, I have been teaching out of St. John School of the Arts, where I worked with voice and piano students ages 7-60. All of my students had varying styles, but I was able to help them build a foundation of technique that would allow them to sing with a free and healthy tone in any style.I believe we all have the ability to create music and I can help you discover it! *** Lesson Details *** My goal in voice lessons is first and foremost to establish a solid vocal technique.  My philosophy is "singing is simple, but not easy!"  We will focus mostly on two things: breath and space for singing.  This method of teaching is known as "bel canto".  It helps build a strong foundation that then allows you to sing almost any style!  Because everyone is different, we will tailor a set of exercises to fit your needs and will help you build that strong foundation!  Once these principles begin to settle in, we will work on music.  I have a huge library of songs to chose from, but I highly encourage you to bring in your favorite songs. Remember, everyone is different and progresses at different rates, but don't be discouraged! This is not a race, but a life skill that you will continue to master! In piano, I am classically trained.  Through a series of music books, we will work on music theory, finger dexterity, music history, ear training, eye/hand coordination, and pure enjoyment of making music. Again, everyone is different, but with some outside commitment, you will improve! Classical piano training is a great foundation for all other styles, such as jazz, pop, singer songwriter, country, etc. Piano also helps with in other aspects of your life such as memory, math, history, reading, etc. *** Studio Equipment *** I have a full size keyboard and music stand. *** Travel Equipment *** Please provide a piano, music books, music stand (if needed), and a lesson book for notes. *** Specialties *** I am a classically trained baritone specializing in bel canto. I have found this technique to be a great foundation for all styles of singing, from opera to pop. I am also classically trained at the piano. I focus on natural hand positions, note identification, music theory, and ear training. And I have fun doing it!