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BM, University of Wyoming, Vocal Performance MM (In progress), University of Northern Colorado, Jazz Studies
2013--Jacoby Concerto Competition Semi-finalist
2014--NATS Regional Singing Competition 2nd Place
2013-2014--UNC Jazz Festival Outstanding Soloist
I am a positive, energetic instructor and performer who loves working with students of all ages and backgrounds. I completed my bachelor's in music performance at the University of Wyoming in 2014, and have just completed my first semester as a Master's student in Jazz Studies at the University of Northern Colorado. In my time as a performer I have enjoyed performing many roles such as Yum-Yum in Gilbert and Sullivan's Mikado, Fiona in Brigadoon, and Marty in Grease. I find joy in indulging in all styles of music and have found such value in exploring each of these styles in my own work, as well as with my students.
I have been teaching both beginning piano and voice lessons since 2010, and have found so much fulfillment in teaching students of all ages and backgrounds. I believe it is so important to customize each student's lesson experience based on their individual needs, strengths and weaknesses. My goal is to make these lessons feel rewarding and fun for you, so we will discuss together what it is that you're seeking from your lesson experience regarding musical styles, skills and your overall personal goals. Whether you're taking lessons to try something new, prepare for a performance, or cultivate a lifelong skill of playing and performing for others, I am happy to help you get there.
For my voice students, I generally do not use a method book since I believe each student will have different goals and different tastes in music. While I believe that classical training is beneficial to develop strong technique, I also know that we can help you to develop a solid technical foundation through all styles of singing including pop, jazz, musical theatre and folk. For your first lesson we will discuss your desires and goals, and from there I will provide sheet music, handouts, and other supplemental materials. For my piano students, I like to use the Alfred series, which includes different literature for all ages--Piano Adventures for younger students, and adult method books for older students. While these books are great for tracking progress and weekly assignments, I will also stray from these occasionally should there be certain music you desire to learn, and to implement scales, warm-ups and other technical exercises.
I find it so rewarding to help others find joy through music, whether you are a true novice or an experienced singer or player. While I think it is important for all students to achieve our weekly goals and progress regularly, I also try to cultivate an extremely positive environment so that you will leave each lesson feeling encouraged to continue enjoying your music as you work to improve. I believe myself to be a thorough teacher, but will never try to make you feel as though you are being tested. This experience should be you and I working equally together to make music and to achieve your musical goals, rather than me constantly evaluating every move you make. A one-on-one situation such as this can be intimidating to many, and I always try my best to diffuse that from the beginning so that you are comfortable and confident.