Denise W  
Instruments: Voice
Styles: Classical, Musical Theater, Opera

I have been teaching privately for 5 years, beginning while I was still in college. My students spanned every age from 3rd graders to HS seniors, and I taught them a mix of basic healthy technique and musical theory. My current students are active performers of musical theater in both public and scholastic venues. I currently teach out of my home studio, where I have a piano and an acoustically grand living space. Throughout my teaching, I have learned that in order to for a student to be successful, they must have a personal connection with their art. Music requires more than just singing the right notes; there must be intent, passion, dedication, and enjoyment. My teaching stems from this belief that anyone can sing with the proper support and motivation.

I believe in age appropriate techniques and repertoire, and use both warm-ups and vocalises, along with accessible repertoire to foster technique and give students the tools they need to think through a song on their own. I follow standard Bel Canto technique for all of my students, then teach modifications for each style. Even my belter students are still asked to sing in their head voice for vocal health and balance. I give students repertoire that they are interested in along with pieces that I select for pedagogical value. Students are always encouraged to bring along any music they may be performing for school or church so that they can improve their public performance.