Voice Lessons in Highfield, DC

Instruments: Voice

I have taught private voice lessons for well over a decade in various genres from classical to contemporary. I earned a Doctorate in Musical Arts in Voice Pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory. My dissertation is entitled "The Application of Motor Learning Feedback in the Singing Voice Studio." https://ycp.academia.edu/ColinJohnson. In addition to my doctorate, I earned a Master of Music in voice pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory and Bachelor of Music in voice performance from the University of Iowa. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Keyboard Electric Guitar

I try to make sure every lesson is upbeat, fun, high energy, and very focused. I use musical exercises, games, visuals and online media to ensure a fun atmosphere. I also implement awards to acknowledge accomplishments, particularly when a student reaches milestones or achievements that we clearly define during the beginning stages of lessons. Performance practice is another key element of my teaching style as I incorporate elements of live performances which helps the student prepare. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For my vocal students, I start with vocal exercises every lesson and allow them learn to vocal techniques through different vocal exercises. Then I work with my students on the repertoire that they are interested in or repertoire that can help them practice their weak spots. For my piano students, I use many different series (Alfred's, Faber, or some classic repertoire) depending on their level and age. For all students, I will also include music theory when I teach because the students will have a stronger foundation with all of these components, which will enable them to learn better, faster and even by their own. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I started doing some studying on vocal techniques, the anatomy of the head and throat, and the latest in vocal pedagogy research. I started teaching my own private voice lessons two years ago using what I researched and my own personal experiences. The results from my students were AMAZING. I had a student who came to me and was suffering from a voice injury and through suggested voice therapy and my voice lessons, she was able to Sing to her full potential without harshness, rasp, or vocal discomfort at all.  I am a member of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity Inc. and our open motto is "Vita Brevis Ars Longa" The Latin to English translation is, "Life is short, Art is long." This is a motto for every musician to live by. Read More

Instruments: Voice Music

My teaching style really depends on the student! Some want to learn for fun, others are studying for exams or college. As a result its really important for me to tailor my lessons towards each student and what they would like to work on. For some that could mean working on vocal technique, others working on music and repertoire. Im adept at adapting to each students individual talents and vocal needs and therefore its important that for that each student progresses at a pace that they are comfortable with. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

It is very rewarding when I see students develop a passion for music! I believe it is important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. In each lesson, I set realistic goals for each student. I help fuel students desire to progress and allow students to be eager to learn more by acknowledging their accomplishments. I give each student the room to express his or herself freely. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice

Aestethics or "beauty" of the voice is subjective. In this method we favor the voice health. The ability to sing without fatigue. The confidence that we can trust in our instrument. The result of this work is after all a "beautiful" sound. And it will sound beautiful for every listener. "The acoustical result of a healthy sound is a beautiful sound. And we will agree in any culture that its beautiful because its an instinct aesthetic." (Eugene Rabine) The method itself comprehends 4 parts: 1) a theory about the functional system (how the instrument works) 2) a theory about the sensomotorial system (how one person learns a sensomotorial activity) And based on those 2 theories: 3) a specific Pedagogy 4) a specific Didactic I don't want to get too "technical" in this section, you're free to ask me if you have further questions about these aspect. Read More