For voice lessons, I teach using methods I learned from my professors at Juilliard — developmentally-appropriate methods focusing on building a healthy technical foundation and adjusting technique to fit various vocal styles. Our lessons are not just about learning songs, although we do plenty of that! They are just as much about helping singers explore and build their instruments—their unique voices. My goal is to help my students develop a healthy, sustainable technique that will serve them well for many years — and to feel the joyful and empowering feeling of expressing themselves through singing!

In active and engaging ways, lessons stretch singers to connect to their songs and explore acting, ear-training and sight-reading, theory and some voice science fundamentals. Each month, we reveal a new “Master Performer,” learn about their path, and watch inspiring performances of amazing singers in action.

Singers have opportunities to perform for quarterly group classes and recitals. They may be invited to perform for music adjudications and competitions, if that is an opportunity they are motivated to try.

My piano lessons are designed to help students develop a strong music foundation as they express themselves through music, and build repertoire they will enjoy mastering and playing for others!

Lessons encourage pianists to explore a wide variety of music while honing their playing technique, musicianship skills, knowledge of music fundamentals and inner creativity. In fun and engaging ways, pianists are continually exposed to ear-training and sight-reading, music theory and music history. Each month, pianists also discover a new “Master Performer,” and watch inspiring performances of awesome pianists.

Pianists have opportunities to perform for quarterly group classes and recitals. They may be invited to perform for music adjudications and competitions, if that is an opportunity they are motivated to try.

Students who are 5-8 years old may be interested in “Combo Lessons,” which helps them on their musical journey in both instruments during their weekly lesson.

Older students pursue these instruments separately in their weekly lessons.

In addition to the concepts in the previous two columns, students are coached in performance techniques, helping them find more and more ease, joy, and confidence in sharing their music with others!

Quarterly group classes (with students of similar ages) help foster familiarity and community within our studio, and have sometimes inspired collaborations between students!

I’m a strong believer in incorporating mindfulness, movement, music therapy, and music appreciation into each lesson. Students often tell me how much calmer, happier and empowered they feel after our lessons. I love hearing that! Helping them feel the therapeutic effects of music is as important to me as teaching them how to play or sing.

Of course, the concepts I teach are introduced in a supportive and joyful way! I love helping all of my students develop their talents, and experience the joy of expressing themselves through music.