Studio Policies

We study voice to develop and enhance the natural singing voice.  Technical issues include breathing, tone quality, resonance, diction, flexibility, and vocal health.  Musical goals include learning songs in different languages, studying historical performance practices and stylistic interpretation, and presenting an expressive performance. 

Please acquire a binder for your music and any handouts I may provide.  Plan to begin or continue building your library of music by purchasing a volume of songs. 

You are expected to attend each lesson, practice daily, translate your texts (I can provide assistance), and memorize your assigned repertoire.  You are also expected to attend recitals and concerts (7 per semester). 

It may be helpful to tape your lessons.  The sound equipment in my studio includes recording capability, and tapes are available in the music office.  It will also help you to listen to recordings of professional singers. 

An accompanist for recitals and juries will be available at certain times during the semester.  If you are preparing a performance, you should arrange a time with the accompanist, preferably when I can be present. 

Stay healthy!  (I find a good diet, sufficient sleep, and echinacea enormously helpful.)  If you are ill, and particularly if your throat is sore, please notify me.  Under certain circumstances, it may be possible to devote your lesson to non-singing matters.

Please feel free to stop by during my office hours or any time my door is open.  I welcome the opportunity to talk to you about singing!

Research Paper

Singing is a complex undertaking.  In order to further your understanding and appreciation of some of its many facets, you will be asked to write a research paper.  You may choose your topic from one of the following:

Vocal pedagogy
Anatomy and physiology
Acoustics and resonance
Poetry and text setting
Theoretical analysis
History/biography of the poet/composer
Languages, diction, IPA
Historical performance practices
A topic of your own design

The paper should be 3-5 pages in length and should include references (footnotes or endnotes) and bibliography.  You must honor the Academic Behavior Code.

Grading Criteria

Your overall grade will depend on your preparation for each lesson, your development toward your individual semester goals, and the quality of your research paper. 

The Fine Print
Good luck, and have fun!