Young Singers (Ages 4-11)
Although there are rare exceptions to the rule, most younger singers lack the physical ability to sing very difficult music or pieces with a great deal of range. The focus for this age bracket is:
- Protecting the voice from damage caused by poor singing habits
- Teaching the physical part of singing
- Ear-training – Teaching pitch and how to sing on key
- Performance – Dealing with stage fright and proper stage etiquette
- Movement and music!
There is so much groundwork that can be done to give a young child the foundation they will need. This builds up their skills for later when they are physically ready to dive into harder music. Singing is a very physical, mental, and at times emotional activity. It requires training in just the same way that an athlete does.
Teen Singers (Middle/High School)
Our older singing students will be working on many of the same things as the young singers, but we will also focus on breaking any bad habits that may have formed and work on building their head voice, moving over their passaggio, vocal placement, breath support, vocal agility, ear training, and site-reading skills. There is no instruction book for this group. Singers will be given individual pieces to work on.
Adult Singers
We don’t want to leave adults out! I know after years of running karaoke shows around town that many wonderful local singers have beautiful voices. I would love to help out with any areas that you feel you may be struggling with. It may be that you find certain songs tire your voice or that you have trouble hitting notes that you used to be able to sing. Maybe you are concerned with running out of air on long runs. All of these are things that could be addressed and many times can be handled in just a few sessions.
Recitals
Recitals are held mid-December for Christmas time and again at the end of each school year. In recent years, the First Baptist Church of Watertown has been our supporter and provided a wonderful concert space for us! The programs are a great time for parents, grandparents, and others to experience the hard work all the students have been doing throughout the year. Students are invited to perform 1-2 pieces for the recital. Students are expected to dress nicely as they would for a school play or concert. Information about the recitals will be sent out to the parents well in advance and dates are posted on the school calendar.
Prices & Fees
Lessons are billed at a rate of $80/month for standard weekly 1/2 hour private vocal lessons. For students who wish to have more one-on-one time, 1 hour lessons are also available for $160/month. We require a minimum commitment of one month. See the Payments and Cancellation page for more information.
PAYMENT
Payment is due on the 1st of each month. Students are required to pay for the month of lessons in advance. New students who join on a date other than the 1st will be charged a prorated amount due at their first lesson.
PAYMENT METHODS
We accept Credit/Debit Card, Check or Cash. Payment must be received on or before the 1st of the month.
FAQ
How often/long should my child practice?
I recommend practicing at least 15 minutes each day for beginners. More time is always encouraged. Nothing ever improves without practice!
How old should my child be to start vocal lessons?
I am fine starting 4-year-olds and up as long as the child seems interested. There aren’t a lot of requirements for counting or being able to site-read music to get started learning the physical parts of singing. Use your best judgment!
What if my child has special needs?
As the parent of a child on the Autism spectrum, I understand that all children are unique. I have no problem working with students who struggle in a normal classroom setting or even have trouble sitting for extended periods. I’m willing to give it a shot! Sometimes music is just the thing that kiddos needs to center and self-soothe.