My teaching philosophy utilizes a holistic approach to music learning based on ear training, music theory, technique exercises, active listening as well as learning a wide range of pieces rooted in different musical styles. My vocal approach relies on principles of Somatic Voicework™ The Lovetri Method, a vocal pedagogy method that focuses on strengthening head and chest registers to promote vocal versatility and a healthy singing practice. Lessons are tailored to teach students unique methods of learning, some preferring a more rigorous conservatory style approach, others preferring a more playful and exploratory approach

Music feeds me — I love thinking about it, talking about it, hearing it, playing it, singing it. More than anything, I want my students to feel that same love, connection, and joy. That's the through-line of everything we do together.

A strong foundation matters to me: note reading, ear training, music theory — the tools that let you actually do what you want to do. But my lessons are student-led. I'm always curious about what drew you to music in the first place, and what's going to keep you coming back. My job is to figure that out with you, build confidence along the way, and be a mentor, coach, and supporter as you grow.

I take the long view. Many of my students have been with me for five to ten years. I've coached them through college applications and auditions, and we often stay in touch long after our lessons end.

All new students are required to take a trial lesson prior to committing to the semester. Trial lessons are important for both the student and the teacher. I’ll talk with the student/parents about musical goals, previous experience, and I’ll ask the student to play something for me to assess their level (beginner, intermediate, etc.) After that, we’ll have a regular lesson. Please fill out a new student intake voice form or piano form before our first lesson. Trial lessons are 40 minutes // $110.

Regularity and consistency are extremely important when learning a musical instrument. All school age students are required to make a full semester commitment and take weekly lessons. I cannot take on students who are unable to make a full semester commitment.

Semester 1 begins after Labor Day and goes until the end of January (approximately 18 weeks.) The schedule follows the public school calendar. No lessons are scheduled over any major school holidays (Thanksgiving, Winter Break, etc). Semester 2 begins the first week of February and runs until the second week in June. (approximately 16 weeks) Summer Camps begin the last week of June and run until Labor Day.

Scheduling for my studio opens 2x per year, in early August for the main school year and in June for Summer Session. Scheduling is done on a first-come first served basis, with priority given to returning families. Once the schedule is released, I will place a hold on your preferred time for one week, at which point tuition is due in full to confirm the time slot. Students are strongly urged to choose a lesson time that will work for the entire school year.

The last week before each semester ends is make-up week. During this week, any lessons during the semester that were missed are made up at the student’s regular time. Lessons can also be made up during the normal semester (schedules allowing) as long as 24 hours notice is given.

24 hours advance notice is required in order to cancel or reschedule the lesson without penalty. If you cancel a lesson with less than 24 hours notice or fail to show up, you will be charged for the lesson.

I understand people get sick! As a courtesy, I will honor one late reschedule/cancellation per semester due to an extenuating circumstance such as sickness, etc.

I am not able to extend lesson times should we start late. This causes backlogs for all subsequent students coming to the studio. Therefore, please be as punctual as possible, so that you can ensure your full lesson time. If you are more than 15 minutes late for a scheduled lesson, I cannot keep the lesson, and payment in full will be taken for the missed lesson.

I host two recitals a year, one in February and one in June. Each student is required to pay a $55 recital fee per semester which I use to cover the recital hall rental fee, hire an accompanist, and pay for other recital related fees.

Yes, I offer special audition and portfolio prep sessions. These sessions focus on live audition/performance techniques and are specifically tailored to the application requirements. Most art HS and college auditions and applications are due in the Fall, so I recommend students begin prep work at least 6 months prior, in March or April of the previous year.

Students are expected to practice at home consistently throughout the week, and some improvement and growth should be shown at each lesson. Learning an instrument is virtually impossible without time spent outside of class, and I'm always happy to work with families on a realistic schedule.

Beyond that, I ask students to be curious — listen to as much music as you can, from every genre, era, and corner of the world you can find. Jazz, Bach, Bollywood, bluegrass, K-pop, cumbia, whatever your grandparents played in the car. The ear grows by being fed. Ask questions in lessons, bring in songs you love (or hate — that's interesting too), and don't be shy about what you want to work on.

At the start of each semester, we'll sit down and set goals together — maybe it's nailing a tricky piece, building technique, learning to sing and play at once, or writing your own song. Whatever it is, I want to hear it from you.

Everyone should have access to a musical education, should they desire. Please discuss with me any financial hardship you may have, and I will work with you to arrive at a mutually agreeable plan.