
Lesson Details

About
- Teaches students:
- Ages 10+
- Teaching since:
- February 2001
I believe everyone has the ability to sing … some better than others, of course, -- but regardless, I believe every voice can make a beautiful sound. I believe learning to sing requires team work: with the proper instruction and learning tools from me, the instructor, and with the dedication (practice, practice, practice) from you, the student, a well-rounded singer can emerge. If you can hear the proper note, I can help your vocal instrument play to its fullest abilities.
I began singing when I was five years old in church. I continued singing exclusively inspirational music until I was a teenager. At that time, in addition to the second soprano part I sang in a five-part harmony a Capella (without instrumental accompaniment) Gospel group, I also sang in a few bands (Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, and Rock). My undergraduate studies were completed at the American University, where I majored in Communications (B.A.), and minored in Music, voice being my instrument. During my undergraduate studies, I was recruited and performed as the lead female vocalist for a Rock band that a few fellow music students had formed. While in college, I was trained in classical voice, piano, music theory, musical theater performance, and vocal pedagogy (vocal training). My vocal pedagogy studies credentialed me to become a professional vocal instructor. I began teaching voice after I earned my degree, and have been teaching private voice lessons for over ten years.
Most of my present expertise in teaching voice grew from my vocal pedagogy studies, my teaching experience which has developed over time, my own personal vocal dedication, and my training and understanding of various genres of vocal performance. My present singing career is as an inspirational singer; my vocal students encompass various genres in which I have experience, including: Inspirational, Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, Rock, Classical, as well as various degrees of popular music.
*** Audition Preparation ***
I have coached many of my students to prepare for auditions: auditions to be accepted into performing arts schools, parts in musicals and plays, joining a band or vocal ensemble, as well as auditions for televised singing shows, such as "The Voice," "Sunday's Best," "American Idol" and "The X Factor."
*** Lesson Details ***
I teach students by using the tried and true techniques I have found to be successful, and allow the student to be my guide as to which direction to take with his or her vocal training. Whether the student is a novice, a professional, or somewhere in between, each student, after obtaining the basic singing knowledge and techniques, will have a vocal training schedule geared to his or her individual needs and development. Lessons are for the most part very casual in nature, and the student’s dedication (practice, practice, practice) will dictate whether or not the lessons become stricter. A few months into the vocal instruction, students will be given the opportunity to learn more about reading music and sight singing, if he or she so chooses, as well as vocal performance techniques for singing in front of an audience. Within one year, dedicated students may also have the opportunity to show off what they have learned, and perform in front of an audience at a recital with other vocal students. Please note that my preference is to work with teens age 13 through adults of any age. I believe that younger voices need more time to develop and stand to be damaged if too much stress is put on them too soon. However, exceptions for children under 13 may be made for gifted young singers.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Home studio- entry room of home, baby grand piano, seating area, dry erase board, mirrors
Music Studio- one recording studio, seating area, classroom
*** Travel Equipment ***
If needed, I provide a portable piano keyboard, microphone with amplifier, paper handouts of lessons, etc. The student needs to have paper to take notes and a writing instrument.
*** Specialties ***
Most of my voice lesson experience has been with adults, and contemporary popular and inspirational music.
Experience
Inspiriational Vocalist
Jan 2000 - PresentMost of my present expertise in teaching voice grew from my vocal pedagogy studies, my teaching experience which has developed over time, my own personal vocal dedication, and my training and understanding of various genres of vocal performance. My present singing career is as an inspirational singer; my vocal students encompass various genres in which I have experience, including: Inspirational, Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, Rock and Classical.
+ Read MoreEducation
Bachelor's/M.Div.
Sep 2002 - May 2006Languages
English
Certifications
Vocal Pedagogist
May 200633 Reviews
Write a ReviewShe’s very knowledgeable and patient with help you achieve your goals.
I really enjoy taking lesson with Valyncia, she is so
kind and very knowledgeable. I enjoy talking to her each visit. She is very patience with you and will work with you until you get it. I really enjoy spending my time with her on saturdays.
Got these lessons for my wife; excellent teacher and excellent improvement in my wife's singing ability
Very professional, conveniently located, thoroughly analyzed first lesson. Looking forward to the next session.
I've had several vocal teachers before but I can honestly say Valyncia is the best I've ever worked with. She's the sweetest, most caring person, and more than capable of pushing you to your next level even if you don't think you can do it. I didn't have or even know how to find my head voice before taking lessons with Valyncia. She has a knack for pulling talent out that you didn't even know existed. From vocal lessons, to songwriting, and recording she's a jack of all trades. I would highly recommend that you allow her the chance to share her gifts with you.
+ Read More"Most Excellent"
Best instructor ever. God has given us all a special gift, but some time it takes somebody else to point out our gift. Valyncia voice lessons has give me the confidence to express myself gift that God has given me.
She was awesome
The absolute best
I sang most of my life and never knew that I had the weaknesses that I did and I am so grateful that I chose Valencia to be my singing instructor! She is very informative and has taught me to think about singing in a way I never have. I am learning now that my voice is an instrument and with her help my voice and range will go on another level! She is also very flexible! Couldn't ask for a better instructor!
She is an amazing teacher!
She is an excellent teacher! She has helped me progress very quickly and challenges me to make my voice strong.
Valencia suits my learning style!
I must say that I need to understand what I'm trying to do and Valencia really gave me insight into musical theory and technical singing. Learning about diaphrafm breathing and seeing your voice as an "instrument" has opened me up to a new world of breathing in general as it relates to relaxation, yoga, meditation and yes even exercise!
She helped me determine my vocal range #I'm a tenor!# and she gives solid feedback for what you need to practice before your next lesson.
Definitely value for money!
I give her an A+++
Excellent teacher, knowledgeable and thorough. She pushes beyond self-imposed limitations, and challenges you to go higher. I also love that she is an educator, so she teaches about the components of your voice and how to produce sound. She is also very personable, so she made me feel very comfortable throughout the lesson.
Really Knows her stuff!
Valencia is very knowledgeable and patient. She works well with students who are working professionally. She is flexible even with her busy schedule. She is the teacher you need if you want to take your voice to the next level!
Program Analyst
A few things I have learned since taking singing lessions:1. I can hear myself2. I can hold a note3. Control my breathing
Valencia is a very good vocal teacher/coach. She is understanding and works with you to strive to achieve your best.
Legal Assistant
Valencia knows her stuff and is great at teaching. We have improved tremendously with Valencia's guidance.
teacher feedback
Valencia is a excellant teacher we are having really good progress of trying to get me to used my head voice this has always been a problem for me . I think that i will be able to sing in that range soon . her knowledge of the singing voice is outstanding.
Great Teacher
Valencia is a great instructor and very knowledge in singing. She tells it like it is and give constructive direction to help you develop your voice. I have really felt my money and time was spent well since working with her.
very informative
Great teacher! I have watched my daughter improve her voice with each lesson. Valencia has a wonderful and comfortable mannerism that makes it easy to learn.
Excellent
This instructor is able to quickly assess your problem areas and then diligently works with you to improve them.Really challenges you to improve. the experience can be daunting but there is a great feeling of accomplishment when you finally "get it."
Great teacher! Highly Recommended!
This was the first time that i have taken singing lessons and was quite apprehensive but Valencia made me very comfortable. She helped select songs that I was comfortable with and provided useful feedback that was easy for a novice singer like me to understand and practice implementing. I would have liked to continue lessons with her but am leaving the country for an extended period so regrettably had to stop. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn or improve their singing!
Dedication to finding an appropriate song
I am really impressed with Valencia's tenacity and dedication in my selection of a song that presents challenges to my singing range, tonality inflection, and breathing technique. Her musical insights have caused me to listen to old songs with a new "singer's ear".
GREAT TEACHER.
Valencia is a great techer and a good person,i'm really glad that i chose her as my my teacher.She's very helpful and polite,she gives you advices that not everybody will give to you.Her comments are constructive and honnest,she wants you to be the best that you can be,and she always make sure that tou realise the good things about yourself and encourages you to push yourself.She's also very patient and flexible,i'd highly recommend her to anyone,who needs a good and caring teacher.
Oct.22
Valencia was incredibly efficient and clear throughout the lesson. Having never taken voice lessons before, I was quite nervous, but Valencia's professional attitude calmed me down. I loved the exercises she assigned. Though they were challenging, I felt supported & encouraged.
feedback
It's been very enjoyable. I believe I was able to get a lot better while training under her.
Wonderful
Valencia is a excellent teacher. She doesn't sugarcoat your flaws, maximizing progress. She also is very knowledgable in what she teaches. Highly recommended.
she is the best
Ever since i started lessons with Valencia,i enjoy her every lesson so much i cant wait to attend the next class that's how good she is.she don't only teach but she is concern about her student. she is a great teacher..thanks Valencia
Valencia is a highly skilled teacher. She provides immediate feedback and gives my daughter, who is only 8, great methods and techniques to enhance her singing abilities. My daughter loves going to her classes with Valencia.
THE BEST TEACHER EVER Valencia
When I first st with my lessons Valencia. It feel like i was with take lessons with her for.6 month that how good she is.Thank You Valencia
Happy Student
Valencia is a great teacher. I really enjoy her step by step approach. I look forward to continuing my lessons when I return from my summer holidays.
:-)
Very patient, experienced, and observant. Overall great teacher!
Patient, professional and can anticipate student"s need. Subsequent lessons are then based on these needs for improvement. Improved much in shoort time. Thanks. Araceli T.
Highly Recommended!!!
Ms. Valencia is a remarkable instructor! She worked with my 10 year old in order to prepare her for a drama audition for placement in a local performing arts school. Ms. Valencia was always well prepared and organized for each lesson. She not only taught my daughter the skills she needed to perform a stellar performance, but she placed much focus on the fundamentals such as voice projection, enunciation, and recovery methods. Needless to say my daughter was well prepared for her audition and very confident during her delivery. I am very pleased that Take Lessons takes pride in hiring very professional and talented individuals such as, Ms. Valencia! Should a need arise in the future, I would definately, without hesitation use this service again.