Bio
I began my classical training at the age of 16 and have taught voice lessons since 1999 . I received my Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in Vocal Performance from Brigham Young University in 1999 and 2001. During my time at BYU, I studied voice with Dr. Lawrence Vincent and Dr. Lila Stuart. While obtaining my degrees, I performed the roles of Maruška in Bedřich Smetana’s Prodaná Nevěsta, Despina in Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutti, and one of the Three Spirits in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte. I also sang with the select touring choir, BYU Singers, performing in England, Jordan, Israel, and Carnegie Hall. Among other singing awards and scholarships, I received first place in the Junior and Senior divisions of the Utah State Fair Vocal Competition, as well as runner up in the Utah State Sterling Scholar of Music Competition. While living abroad in Prague, I had the opportunity to sing for the President of the Czech Republic and other Czech and U.S. Officials at a memorial service dedicated to the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks. I performed with the Seattle Ensign Symphony and Chorus many years ago and was a resident soloist for the group. Throughout my musical career, I have been the soprano soloist many time in various local productions of Handel’s Messiah. I have directed various choirs including a church choir, a children' choir, a youth ensemble and a small international women’s choir in Prague, CZ. |
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that singing is an organic function of each human being; that our voices can and should be strengthened and developed in a natural way. I believe that with determination and good practicing habits, anyone can become a better singer. During lessons, I focus on the relaxation and alignment of the body, while teaching students how to manage their breath correctly and create an appropriate and healthy resonance chamber. Once these fundamentals are strengthened sufficiently, our focus will expand to include the development of other vocal artistries such as agility, range extension, and a richer, fuller tone. I also try to incorporate the teaching of musical terms and theory, as well as the learning of sight reading skills. Each student will master valuable performance skills that will strengthen their love for music and build their level of confidence. I do not rush my students in order to prematurely create a certain sound or skill; my teaching tempo is based on the age and ability of each student. I strive to maintain a happy and positive teaching environment, where challenges are looked at as great learning opportunities and encouragement is positive and uplifting. I keep a small studio in order to spend more time outside of lessons preparing repertoire and thinking about how I can help each student. I believe that each student is unique, with different strengths and weaknesses, as well as different voice types and learning styles. I strive to teach to their individual needs and strengths. |