Music Theory with Wendy P.

I've been teaching private vocal instruction since 2003, and opened my own studio in 2008. I love helping people find their true, authentic voice, which I feel is essential not only for singers but many other people as well! Singing is a great joy, and the voice is one of our primary modes of expression. Vocal work with the right guide can be a fulfilling and healing experience. My background is as a professional singer, songwriter and actor working in the Chicago area for many years. I have a B.F.A. in Theater/Voice from The University of Kansas and an M.A. in Interdisciplinary Arts from Columbia College Chicago. I host the Singer's Salon in Chicago, a unique and supportive venue for singers to become more comfortable performing before an audience. I also instruct workshops for vocal technique and performance. For 10 years I was the lead singer for The Red Apples, an acoustic/electric roots band that performed an eclectic mix of rock, swing, blues, country and jazz. Within the past year I have re-energized my theater and cabaret career, appearing at Davenport's Cabaret, as well as other venues. As a singer and actress I have performed with many major theaters in the Chicago area, including Court Theater, Victory Gardens, National Jewish Theater, Bailiwick Theater, and Prop Theater, and many more. *** Lesson Details *** Originally trained as a classical singer, I have since done a number of other studies to enhance the scope of my instruction. My training in training in Somatic Voicework, The LoVetri Method, has enriched my understanding of the mechanics and health of the voice, as well as applications of technique to CCM or contemporary musical styles of singing. I am excellent at diagnosing vocal troubles and imbalances as well as bringing out the best in singers with grounded technique. We will address all aspects of singing technique, from breath management to improving tone, range, flexibility and resonance and power. My familiarity with a variety of musical styles from pop/rock, R&B, and country, to musical theater, lounge and jazz makes me an ideal teacher for those interested in contemporary styles. I have spent many years developing my own style of singing and instruction. I draw on my experiences and training not only in music, but theater and movement, (Linklater, Alexander Technique, Grotowski) to create a well rounded approach to singing and performing. As an instructor, I am most interested in helping students find their true voice and artistic style. I teach students to find expression through and with a foundation of technique, rather then in spite of it. I also am very interested in helping students deal with the mental/emotional aspects of performance, an all important area so frequently ignored by music teachers. My style is nurturing, yet disciplined, and sprinkled liberally with good-natured humor." *** Studio Equipment *** My studio space is fully equipped with a piano, P.A. system with microphones, CD, MP3 player for tracks, and ability to record lessons if the student desires. *** Travel Equipment *** Please have a piano (in tune!) or keyboard for use in your in home lessons. *** Specialties *** I am classically trained, but I am very adept at teaching music in a wide variety of styles, including most contemporary styles of music including pop/rock, roots, swing, jazz and blues, country, r&b, and of course musical theater and cabaret. My band performs an eclectic mix of originals and covers in the roots rock genre, and I write music as well. I have many years of experience in the theater as an actress, and I coach acting technique and performance. I coach singer/songwriters, and all types of singers, of all ages. I have a workshop that specializes in helping people learn to perform better in front of an audience, and I host the Singer's Salon in Chicago, which is a supportive opportunity to perform regularly! I also coach bands, to improve their vocals, harmonies, etc.