The aspect of music teaching in which I am most non-traditional is vocal instruction. And I'll tell you why.
We tend to assume that singing is a talent we're born with - you can either sing or you can't. And those who "can't" are typically shamed for it:
"My god, you sound like a wailing tomcat - do you have to do that in here?"
"You couldn't carry a tune in a bucket."
"You can stand with the group, but don't sing, just mouth the words."
If you've been the victim of this kind of musical shaming - especially from a teacher! - I'm so sorry... because you know what? Chances are it's not true!
Very few people are genuinely tone-deaf. Most people can learn to sing. And no matter how bad your singing abilities may be, they can be improved.
The voice is an instrument, and like any other instrument, you can learn to use it more skillfully, with instruction and practice.
Sure, some people don't need instruction on how to use their voices... just like some people can sit down at a piano, twiddle with it for a while, and produce something that sounds appropriately musical, even if they haven't been taught. But, think about it logically: that doesn't mean that less-successful twiddlers can't be taught how to play the piano.
I'm happy to work with people who are "tone-deaf," who "can't sing," and who "sound like a wailing cat." I have worked with many such people and so far, in every case there has been a measurable improvement in their singing.
I'm especially open to working with folks who don't fit into the standard boxes, such as:
* singers whose natural voice ranges cross the gender line, like female tenors and male altos
* FtM individuals who need help figuring out how to use their changed or changing voices
* MtF individuals who would like to learn to sing in the upper part of their range
I won't promise that I can "fix" your vocal issues, but I also won't assume that they're insurmountable. I will be dedicated and creative about finding ways to help you achieve your goal of better singing.
And I will be totally honest with you about your singing ability; I will encourage you, but I will never lie to you.
For more information, please drop me an e-mail. Let's talk!
Members of TransPosition Vocal Ensemble,
performing an inspirational pop song:
