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Bachelor's of Music from Marywood University, Major: Music Therapy
Member of Marywood Chamber Singers 2012-2016
I love sharing the joys of music with others! I graduate from Marywood University in January 2017 with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy. I took private vocal lessons starting when I was 14 years old. I was a part for my college’s chamber choir and I went on tour with them and performed throughout the US and Canada. I studied abroad in London for a semester and was a part of the King’s College choir as well. I college I performed in many of the school's musicals and performed a senior recital as a culmination of my time at Marywood.
I've been teaching private lessons since college. I've taught beginner piano and different levels of voice. I like to make sure my students have a strong foundation, but I also make sure they're enjoying their lessons! Music therapy is different than teaching private lessons, but I've worked with many different people throughout my time as a music therapist including; children with disabilities, geriatric patients, psychiatric patients, adults in memory care, and many others. I am very patient and kind, I want my students to be able to trust in themselves and be motivated to continue with music!
I make sure my students have a strong foundation, which means I start with classical training. I work on the basics such as posture, articulation, breath-support, vowel shapes, and rhythm. Once they have a strong basis, I move to modern and musical theatre if they desire it. For a student who is going the strictly classical route, I will teach them IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) to help them with pronunciations in foreign languages when singing. I mix in music theory lessons as well as information on the different parts of the body that are involved in singing (larynx, vocal chords, diaphragm, etc). I also encourage my students to write their own music, if they're drawn to that, and help them to notate it. I want to make sure my students see music as a means of expression and enjoyment.
I tailor my lessons to the needs of each student, no matter the level. I make sure to set goals that are attainable. I want my students to feel confident about their skills. I'm very open to questions and suggestions for music they want to sing. The more they enjoy it, the more they're likely to practice! I focus on their strengths while also working on their weaker areas. My degree in music therapy gives me unique skills when it comes to building relationships with my students. I make sure that they feel their voice is heard and that they have a say in the direction of their lessons. I am patient and kind in lessons. I want them to be motivated and trust themselves and their skills!