Singing with Rebecca B.

"Whether it is nailing that next key audition, speaking with more confidence at your next big board meeting or just honing a skill that brings you joy, I look forward to working with you to give you the tools, training and support to succeed..." Praised by Opera News for her “pearly tone,” REBECCA BLINDER is a voice teacher and performer living and working in Seattle. She recently relocated to the West Coast after teaching voice in New York for over 13 years. Additionally she trained at a variety of festivals and young artist programs, and earned a Master’s Degree (and Bachelor's Degree) in Voice Performance from The University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Rebecca has taught a wide variety of performers — from professionals to talented children and teenagers. Her students have performed in Film, Television, on National tours, at Regional Theaters and Music Venues including New York City Opera, Radio City Music Hall and recently the Academy Awards. She also enjoys working with beginners and those who want to explore their vocal potential for their own enjoyment. As a performer herself, Rebecca’s career as an Operatic Soprano as well as a performer of Musical Theatre, New Works and Spiritual Music has taken her all over the United States, Europe and the Middle East. Favorite credits include Rosalinda (Die Fledermaus), Nedda (I Pagliacci), Micaëla (La Tragedie de Carmen) and a world premiere reading of Billy Blythe, a folk opera about the early years of Bill Clinton. Rebecca’s knowledge of the music business, experience as a performer, and technical, supportive teaching method make her a sought-after voice teacher for students of all levels, backgrounds and vocal styles. "My TEACHING PHILOSOPHY leads me to work with each student individually to help them find a tailored technique that works for them. No two voices are exactly alike, therefore I believe that there is not one rigid method that works for everyone. My ultimate goal is to help my students find their own unique sound, free of tension and full of confidence. Every student who comes to me started singing for a reason — because it felt good. And it should always feel good, restorative, and empowering! In lessons I aim to keep this positive energy at the forefront and focus on making singing easier. My students and I work together to eliminate unnecessary effort and complications — those things that take away from the enjoyment that comes from singing. I take a healthy, classical vocal approach to encourage freedom, ease and power in the voice. As a student of such methods as Bel Canto, Alexander Technique and Yoga, I incorporate a full body approach to singing. I also encourage my students to find ways of improving their voices and the use of their bodies in all aspects of their lives, both in and outside the studio. In today’s busy world (and especially here in New York City) maximizing time, while learning to take a beat and focus, is a huge part of vocal technique. The voice reflects what is going on in the mind and body. In addition to their vocal work, I encourage all my students to spend time doing things that keep them happy and feeling good. Yoga, running, dancing, attending that concert or play — these activities help keep us in balance. In my work with children and teenagers, I take special care to nurture their developing voices, encourage strong practice habits and sing with joy every day. Depending on their level of skill and their individual goals, we incorporate musicianship and music theory into technical work so that each student has the practical skills to pursue music in their life however they choose. Whether it is nailing that next key audition or speaking with more confidence at your next big board meeting, I look forward to working with you to give you the tools, training and support to succeed! See you in the studio! —Rebecca"