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BM, Portland State University, Music Performance w/ emphasis in voice
I am a relaxed, easy going voice instructor who enjoys promoting singing as a practice of personal expression, mental stimulation, and healing. I recieved my Bachelors Degree from PSU in the spring of 2014. Since then, I have been singing, teaching, and working in the Portland area.
I began teaching in college as a hobby, and as a method for solidifying the skills that I myself was learning. After I graduated, I continued to teach friends for fun and for the experience. Today, I teach as a means of keeping music in my life and sharing traditions that are special to me.
While I sometimes recommend rep for certain students, I like to begin with songs that are meaningful to them, provided that I see no way it could be harmful to their voice. If the student feels insecure (all too common of a problem) I try to help them feel relaxed and comfortable while boosting their confidence. I believe that finding one's voice can have powerful implications in other areas of life. If the student is more advanced, I help with vocal techniques, improving sight reading, diction, and other more specific matters.
Firstly, I believe that laughter is important. It helps students relax and enjoy themselves, and it perfectly engages the muscles needed for support. I try to maintain a teaching atmosphere where laughter is possible. I also believe that the student essentially teaches themselves to sing- I diagnose and provide input. I can take a more hands on approach for less experienced singers, but ultimately, nothing is going to stick if the student is not consiously engaged. (For younger students, there is more emphasis on fun and making noise than on specific technique)