Voice Lessons in Gainesville, VA

Instruments: Voice Music

I have been teaching private voice for five years, and I specialize in a multitude of styles, including musical theatre, legit, and pop/rock. Additionally, I have worked as a teaching assistant for Acting Through Song class at Shenandoah Conservatory, and I recently music directed a production of REEFER MADNESS. My passion for teaching begins with the students’ need for artistry. Singing is a beautiful way to express emotion and convey stories, and my job is to help the artist do so in a sustainable, creative fashion. Read More

Instruments: Voice Music

There are many different methods and styles to teach voice, but there are some basic fundamentals to good vocal technique and so for me its always important to start with a few basic warm ups, which normally includes simple vocal exercises such as scales and/or arpeggios, as well as working on good breathing. Its important for me to know what the student is interested and what they want to get out of the lessons, and specifically what repertoire they would like to work on, and from there we can work on a plan moving forward. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I have a very large tool box of methods, strategies and exercises. I like to begin by hearing from my student what the specific goals are. I put together a structured plan specifically for that student, so we can work toward achieving those goals. Lessons are often structured in 2 parts: 1) actual singing and song work, 2) exercises. The exercise portion can include ear training and sight singing components as well as vocalises. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

The most satisfying moment as a teacher is when a student finally "gets it", and for students, I find that lessons are the most fun when the student feels capable and not overwhelmed. I like to challenge my students and encourage them to exceed even their own expectations of their abilities. With this in mind, my overall teaching philosophy emphasizes gaining technical mastery over the student's chosen instrument, strong music reading and theory skills, along with creativity and improvisation to turn them into well rounded players who can hold their own in just about any music setting from the stage to the studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginners who are children, I typically use Faber and Faber's Piano Adventures. One of my biggest goals while teaching is to provide my students with a well-rounded music education. From my experience, the Piano Adventures series aligns well this goal while providing engaging, fun material for children. After completing a series of method books, I start to focus on classical repertoire. While I believe classical repertoire is the best way to build piano technique, musicianship, and musical knowledge, I love including other genres depending on the student's interest. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Melissa began singing in a church choir at the age of four and has been "hooked" ever since. After years of performing in various choirs and taking lessons herself, she went on to earn her Bachelor's degree in vocal performance at Illinois Wesleyan University and her Master's at Illinois State University. Meanwhile, Melissa was also studying piano from childhood through college. Now in her 21st year of playing, Melissa loves to teach beginner and intermediate pianists in addition to youngsingers. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

I customize the curriculum and repertory for each of my students based on their personal goals, which we will discuss in the first lessons. Do you want to play for yourself or to perform publicly? What kinds of repertory appeal to you and how much time do you have to practice? From there we will create a plan that best meets these goals. For beginners, this will include a method book (I often use Faber Piano Adventures for young beginners and Alfred Adult-In-One methods) to get you started. Read More