Singing with John H.

John is a professional classical musician, vocalist and voice teacher with 15+ years experience. Effective speaker, trainer and spokesperson who draws on a unique blend of musical experience, training and ability to create excitement and enthusiasm using theatre background to educate. Performed professionally in church and on stage as music and stage director as well as baritone soloist in a wide variety of musical styles. Extensive music training including Master’s Degree Program in opera performance, church and classical music and music of all genres. John is originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, played cello and sang with The Appalachian Singers folk group before studying music education at the University of Tennessee and vocal performance at Queens College in Charlotte, N.C. He was awarded full-scholarship to Carnegie-Mellon’s opera department, studied with Nell Rankin at Carnegie Hall and sang professionally while living in NYC. For eleven years, John was the purchasing director of audio, video and books for the Metropolitan Opera Guild and coordinated in store appearances at Lincoln Center for famous opera stars such as Luciano Pavarottii, Renata Tebaldi Joan Sutherland, Renée Fleming, Rïse Stevens, Thomas Hampson and many more. Operatic performances include the baritone leading roles in Cosi Fan Tutte, Marriage of Figaro, Don Pasquale, The Consul, Midsummer Night’s Dream, La Boheme and Carmen. Recently he was a soloist for Highland Presbyterian in Louisville, KY, Westminster Presbyterian in Knoxville and recitalist for WUOL Classical Radio and other various churches and organizations in Louisville and Knoxville. He is presently teaching at Westminster Presbyterian Church and sings with Knoxville Opera. *** Lesson Details *** If you are interested in improving your singing as a soloist in either popular or classical music, just looking to improve your hymn singing, or a complete beginner, I can help you. I can also coach you in a musical performance or help you to improve your speaking voice. I teach with enthusiasm and always find that encouragement and constructive criticism works best. A large part of a successful performance is confidence. I have found real joy in singing and in music and I like to share that through performing and teaching. When we begin, I find it important to get to know each other and to spend some time talking about why you chose to study and what you hope to learn. Then we can vocalize and get a since of your voice. I’d also like you to bring a song you can sing for me. If you have a recording of the accompaniment, that would be preferable. I will provide a CD player and will use a piano or a keyboard to work with you. I stress the importance of practice in strengthening a person’s voice. *** Travel Equipment *** Electronic keyboard *** Specialties *** I specialize in breath support, diction, easy production and beautiful tone.