OFFERINGS
VTS offers both small group sessions and private instruction in singing, songwriting, sight singing and music theory.
Some students mix skill studies into their vocal lessons. For example, singer/songwriters’ vocal technique lessons can include analysis of their compositions and ways to improve both the composition and its performance. Many students opt for help in music theory if they are unable to attend formal college courses. Or if they prefer an approach more geared to their particular musical style than may be found in the traditional theory class. High school students may want to improve their sight singing for competitions. Since we work from sheet music, students who play or sing mostly by ear are introduced to a variety of professional alternative notation systems. (See The Teacher page for my background in styles/education.)

TYPICAL LESSON
A typical voice lesson begins with 10 or more minutes of warmups. Students learn to use “rib breath,” relax the jaw and tone the muscles involved in singing correctly. When ready, the student begins working on specific songs.
Without proper warm up muscles can be tense and are more likely to be strained. When ‘normal’ tension is balanced, the voice becomes more resonant and singing is significantly easier. The best warm up exercises are gentle ones that begin in the mid range and gradually, methodically, expand in range and complexity. Warmups will include suggestions for particular exercises suited to the individual student’s issues.

MATERIAL
Songs need to match the present capability of the student, yet be challenging in one or more areas: range, pitch, breath control, dynamics.
Familiar material is not recommended unless there is an upcoming audition or performance. Unfamiliar music helps a student avoid old vocal habits that may need to be unlearned. Many singers start by imitating their favorites, who may or may not sing using the best methods. Less than healthy habits tends to become embedded in the songs. The student and I confer on choosing from the style most preferred by the student, but I usually choose the second piece. A song too difficult will frustrate the student and probably reinforce bad habits, a piece that is too easy won’t encourage growth.

PEDAGOGY
Bel canto, Italian for “beautiful song,” is the teaching method most closely aligned with my approach. Once the throat is more open, students can begin work on the special techniques singers use to be more effective.
The Italian language is uniquely suited to an “open throat,” essential for relaxed singing. This technique is also referred to as “natural singing” among other names, but “natural singing” has also been used for techniques that are quite different and include practices I do not support. I don’t use that term for that reason. Some vocal teachers promise quick results, and often achieve them; however, many are not the best for long term vocal health, and eventually students can develop quite serious problems that threaten their ability to sing at all.

Some students who prefer musical styles like rock, indie/alternative, musical theatre, jazz, blues, pop, etc., worry that this kind of approach will give them a “classical” sound. Actually, tone quality and what is often called “performance practices,” are what generally separate these song styles. Your physiological instrument is the same no matter what music you love. Understanding your physical instrument and how it works will help you, whatever the vehicle for expression!

SCHEDULING
Most often lessons are weekly. Younger students (7 years old - grade/middle school ages) are advised to take half hour to 45 minute lessons; older or more experienced students can benefit from 45 minute to hour lessons. There is always some fluctuation in schedules, so if the first available slot is not the best for you, I can probably find a better one in time.

POLICIES
A cash First Lesson is offered to help students determine if VTS is what they are looking for. Once the student begins training, lessons can be purchased in advance in groups of four or more; each succeeding payment is due on the date of the last paid lesson. Every effort is made to schedule a makeup if a lesson must be changed or cancelled; however, the basic rule of almost all private instructors is that if no makeup can be scheduled, or future lessons cannot be extended to makeup the missed time, fees for same day cancellations are forfeited.