I believe that training your voice in a healthy way is the key to becoming a successful singer. That is why I always encourage the students to keep practicing — to take their voice to the next level. I also feel that giving students room to express themselves creatively will contribute to having strong musicianship skills long term.
I always begin lessons with warm-ups to get everything going. I give my students a weekly assignment to practice before the lesson. I also ask them what they would like to work on specifically — pitch, pace, rhythm, or anything else. At the end of the lessons I discuss with the student what he or she should practice for the next lesson. I think it is important to have some structure, but also to give students the opportunity to express themselves creatively. I feel that having at least one specific goal gives my students something that they can work towards.
I have been teaching private music lessons for seven years, since graduating from The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in 2012. I also tutored my classmates in college, with ear training and music theory. I have been teaching music classes in the NYC public schools for the past two years.
I recently booked my first Sofar Sounds show, a global movement that fosters a real spirit of community through music. It has been my dream to perform with them.
One of my voice students told me that she has never felt more confident in performing and singing until she started working with me. It was such a heartwarming compliment! I love giving my students the tools that they need to feel like successful performers.
I traveled to Japan when I was in high school, and it was a life changing trip for me. I really enjoyed the cultural aspects of the country, and I got to experience both the city and the country, in Tokyo and Kyoto. Tokyo is a bustling metropolis, while Kyoto is more laid back, with spectacular Buddhist temples and imperial palaces. I especially enjoyed visiting stunning gardens and taking part in a traditional tea ceremony.
I know some French, having studied the language throughout high school. I also know a bit of Spanish and some Japanese from my visit to that country. I don’t speak any of these languages fluently but I can order basic food in a restaurant!
I would perform with Feist, a Canadian indie pop singer, guitarist and songwriter. I love her writing and performing style, and I think that we actually have a very similar style of singing!
I enjoy photography and I also like to paint. As a musician, I have developed an affinity to many different art forms.
Most recently I have been listening to some indie bands, including Pomplamoose, and The Bird and the Bee. I also love folk/rock bands such as Fleet Foxes. In terms of singers, I like Aretha Franklin and Bonnie Raitt.
