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EDUCATION: University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY B.S. Biotechnology, May 2019
Digital Audio Production certification, 2019 (ongoing) Jamestown Community College, Jamestown, NY
A.S. Math and Science, May 2017
2018 - Ensemble performance on Broadway at Symphony Space
2017 - Performed with Kenny Rogers at the Center for Arts
2014 - Present: Regular solo vocalist at the Chautauqua Institution
2011 - Cavalcade of Music Gold Cup recipient via ensemble
2009-2012: Multiple NYSSMA Gold with Distinction recipient
Hello, my name is Stephen. I am a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist from Brooklyn, New York with performances on Broadway with the likes of Kenny Rogers among many other notable artists. I have traveled the world and most recently been to London in pursuit of creative fuel for my art. It has been a privilege to travel and perform as I have. With the extensive knowledge and experience I have accumulated in my endeavors, my passion is to guide others in their musical pursuits in the same manner as I have been; Whether traditional or not. No matter what goal lies ahead, I am confident I can transform any musical novice, amateur or advanced vocalist into the singer and musician they want to be.
As a classically trained vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, I have been instructing for 10 years, alongside my activities in performance. I have been instructing students and colleagues within the University setting, as well as in private lessons. I encourage students to listen to music and to dive into their respective sounds as much as they can because immersion is key to understanding how to embody their sound. If a student is missing that piece to their musical character, then that is where I come in, to stoke the flame, and focus it.
I also wholeheartedly believe that although it may not be aligned with personal preference, it is imperative that all musicians, vocalist, and instrumentalist alike should be exposed to all genres of music for experience sake. It is important to practice, but it is even easier to listen. The classical technique has a rich history and practical use in many genres, so it is a good thing that you approach different styles and dissect what makes each unique in their own way. That is a step towards true expertise, and a method I promote heavily. Music is supposed to be fun, magical, and mysterious. The journey is the destination.
For students of any level, I tend to always focus on mastering breathing and classical technique. I believe that it is imperative that students develop this way as it is fundamental to any true vocalist. My methods are quite particular to the individual and their natural strengths and weaknesses, but I approach every student with a tried and true structure that leads to fast and noticeable results. I also tend to use written material lending to the classical technique as a way to standardize practice times to structure individual progress outside of lesson time.
To reiterate, nothing is more rewarding than to see one of my students naturally develop with the tools they already have. I encourage musical exploration and to see my students retain the fundamentals and advanced technique I teach in my lessons. Every student is different, with different comforts, and different predilections. I believe in strengthening what is lacking, or better yet, holding a student back from being the musician they dream to be. With the right tools and a little bit of time, anything is possible.