“I never before realized that such simple techniques could be so powerful in public speaking.” – Danielle Williams

Timing

Lessons are generally one hour. In the beginning, we might go over a little, as learning new things, especially the more physical breathing techniques, are a bit time consuming,and it’s important that you are comfortable with knowing what you are learning and can duplicate it in your practice times at home. Later, when you are doing those exercises on your own, we will concentrate  more on technique and the music you are learning, music that supports and develops your voice, and music you love as well!
However, I never charge more than our agreed upon price. I charge per session, not per hour. I never charge more if we should need (and agree) to go over a bit.

I do not advise less than an hour, (exceptions for very young children), as an hour gives us time for a balanced lesson. We cover breathing, warming up, increasing difficulty of scale vocal exercises for strength, flexibility,increasing pitch range, ear training, understanding intervals, dynamics of sound, vocal acoustics, articulation exercises, proper utilization of jaw and cheek musculature, and then on to music designed to develop qualities in the voice. The instrument is then prepared to sing vocal literature and we study how to take apart a song and understand the components. Eventually it all comes together to create a gorgeous piece of music, by your warm, flexible, gorgeous voice! Also, we laugh a lot too!

Frequency

Most students find a lesson a week keeps the progress going. Many double up during school breaks, which gives us a chance to explore even more depth of learning. Less than once a week makes it challenging to keep motivation and progress going. In between lessons, a regular practice of 20-30 minutes, 4-5 days a week (in addition to your lesson day) will create that beautiful voice you deserve. People who practice regularly frequently comment that it makes all the difference, and makes it so much more fun, & so much easier to sing. 

Do not let the idea of practice scare you off!  Everyone’s life is individual as to the time and energy available. I will help you develop a way to practice that works for you, and we will make it a successful situation. I am fully committed to your growth, and getting through the rough spots is something we will face together. 

Missed Lessons

Illness and emergencies happen in life, and I will do my best to accommodate a change in schedule when necessary. However generally, I require a minimum of 24 hours in advance for cancellation, so I have time to fill that spot. If I am responsible for a late start, I will teach the full hour. If you are late, I will do my best time wise, however if there is a student waiting I will honor their start time.

Payment

You may pay per session,or per month. Cash or checks are fine. Contact me for current pricing. 

Age

You are never too old. Seriously. The breathing, the vibrancy of trained muscles, will bring a fresh sound to your voice. All you need is the desire and the decision to do it! Whether you used to sing ages ago, or have never sung a note, you can do this! I’ve taught professionals needing a brush-up, and people who are just starting.  

Most children start formal lessons around ten years old, when their physical and mental development is ready. However, every case is different. With attention and respect to the child’s physical development, and using appropriate music and exercises, a child of 8 or 9 may do just fine.

If your child is younger than that, sings all the time, and really wants to learn, we can begin to build some connections for them with rhythm, sight reading, moving to music, and awareness of their breathing. However a child’s larynx should not have the same pressures placed upon it as an adults. It is still developing, so care must be taken to not over stretch the laryngeal muscles in order to produce a more mature, ‘belting’ sound, as in shows like ‘Annie’. As long as the child’s developmental process is accepted and understood, and expectations are in line with that ,then exposing a child to singing can be a positive experience, leading them to a lifetime love of music.