The Initial Lesson includes an assessment of your speaking voice, posture, and personal goals. You will learn a few speech and singing exercises. This first session offers a clear idea of what lessons at SVS offer. I teach acoustic vocal production, with a focus on classical art songs, musical theatre and standards. Breath management and music theory are also integral to our ongoing work. I enjoy helping you choose repertoire that is inspiring as well as challenging. A variety of recorded vocal exercises are available on the “For Students” page. Students report that this helps to make consistent practice attainable. As we take this musical journey together, your commitment to weekly lessons and daily practice makes it all the more fun!
My goals for you include:
- Healthy and expressive speech and singing that is consistent and reliable
- An intimate knowledge of your voice and vocal production
- Confidence with music theory; fluency in reading music
- Reaching, surpassing your personal goals

“Dreams are messages sent by talent.”
Barbara Sher,
author
The inspiration to open your mouth and sing comes from deep within. If you find yourself in a Vocal Studio ready to take instruction, you more-than-likely belong there.
“Singing is sustained speech.”
Arden Sugarman Eliopoulos, M.A.
From the moment you wake up, “warming-up” your voice is possible. Conscious breathing, and awareness of your spoken “optimal pitch level,” means you’re off to a good start! I help you adopt a practice regimen that is realistic and easily integrated into your daily life. “Pre-vocalizing warm-ups” and all vocal exercises are recorded and available on the Student Portal.
“Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.”
Oscar Wilde, poet and playwright
An important part of this journey is the discovery of your unique and authentic sound. To this end, I encourage students toward an examined life- one of introspection- in whatever manner works best for you.