Michael K  
Instruments: Piano, Voice
Styles: Classical, Pop, Rock, Folk, Country, R&B, Musical Theater, Opera, Hip Hop

My teaching experience spans over a decade, beginning during my early years as a professional performer when I started mentoring fellow singers and teaching private lessons. Over the years, I've refined my teaching approach, and for the past 5 years, I’ve been dedicated to working with students, online, in my home studio, offering private lessons in opera, musical theatre, and voice technique. I also regularly lead masterclasses and workshops, having worked with students ranging from beginners to advanced professionals, including collegiate-level singers and aspiring opera artists. A core belief in my teaching philosophy is that consistent, disciplined, fun practice is essential for vocal growth, particularly for younger students or those just starting out. I encourage my students to establish a regular practice routine, as it not only helps to build vocal strength and technique but also fosters a genuine love and appreciation for the art form. I understand that every student is unique, so I tailor my lessons to their individual goals. In my lessons, I focus on a balanced approach that blends technical training with artistic expression. I believe it’s important for singers to feel confident and connected to the music they’re performing, whether it’s a powerful opera aria or a heartfelt Broadway ballad. I often incorporate a mix of classical and modern repertoire to keep students engaged and motivated, and I find that this approach helps them develop both vocal technique and a strong sense of musicality. A student’s enjoyment and engagement with their lessons are central to their success, and if a student isn’t having fun or feeling inspired, I know I need to adjust my approach. I’m also a firm believer in the importance of performance opportunities to build confidence and stage presence. I encourage my students to participate in recitals, competitions, and auditions, as I find that these experiences help them grow as artists and performers. I also help students prepare for professional auditions and offer guidance on how to navigate the music industry, drawing from my own experiences working with major orchestras and in leading operatic and musical theatre venues. Whether it’s preparing for a local competition or a professional stage debut, I strive to equip my students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Through my teaching, I aim to instill in each student not only a solid technical foundation but also a deep passion for singing and the arts. I believe that the voice is an instrument that requires lifelong care, and I work with my students to ensure they develop sustainable techniques that will allow them to sing with freedom, expressiveness, and longevity. I'm always eager to welcome new students of all ages and backgrounds, as each one brings a new perspective to the art of singing and the joy of making music together.

In my teaching, I believe in meeting each student where they are and building upon the skills they already possess. My goal is to create a positive, engaging, and supportive environment where learning can happen naturally, and where each student feels inspired to grow while having fun. For beginners, especially younger students, I start with a focus on building a strong technical foundation. I believe that having a solid understanding of vocal technique is key to becoming a successful singer, so I introduce them to essential vocal exercises that help strengthen their voice and improve breath control. I also like to incorporate fun, interactive exercises to help students connect with their instrument in an enjoyable way. Once the basics are in place, I introduce them to simple solo repertoire that is both age-appropriate and within their vocal range. These first pieces can be a wonderful way to celebrate progress and boost their confidence as they prepare for their first recital or performance. I also emphasize the importance of developing a sense of musicality early on, guiding them through rhythm, dynamics, and emotional expression to help them become well-rounded performers. For more advanced students, I tailor lessons to match their individual needs and goals. Some students may wish to focus on expanding their vocal range or improving technical aspects like agility and diction, while others may be preparing for auditions or performances with an orchestra or theatre company. I always take the time to understand what each student is passionate about and where they want to focus their efforts, whether it’s opera, musical theatre, or contemporary singing styles. We build upon their existing skills by introducing more complex pieces that challenge them, while also keeping lessons fun and motivating. I often incorporate a mix of classical, musical theatre, and even pop repertoire to ensure that students remain engaged and excited to learn new techniques and explore different styles. For adult students, I make sure to listen to their specific interests, ensuring the repertoire we choose aligns with their goals and musical tastes. I understand that adult learners often have a different set of challenges, but I believe that learning can and should be enjoyable at any age. I take great care to keep lessons upbeat and inspiring, while still focusing on the fundamentals. Whether it’s someone who has always dreamed of singing but has never taken lessons, or an experienced singer who wants to refine their technique, I work with them to make sure they feel supported and empowered at every stage of their musical journey. No matter the student’s age or experience level, I believe that creating a balance between fun and work is essential to a successful learning experience. Singing should be a source of joy, and my goal is to foster an environment where students feel motivated to improve while having fun along the way. Whether we’re working on technical exercises, tackling challenging pieces, or preparing for performances, I always strive to ensure that each student feels like they are making progress and enjoying the process of becoming a better singer.