Private Lessons

I customize private lessons to suit your individual needs. Each singer has unique talents, vocal tone, range and ability. In private, one-on-one instruction, I am able to establish the needs of each student and design a program that leads to improvement, confidence and success. Each lesson consists of vocal warm-up exercises, breathing/posture exercises and the learning of songs. In my studio, lessons are based on the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) graded vocal program. Each student follows the grade best suited to their level. I supplement the RCM repertoire with duets, folk songs, musical theatre, hymns and jazz based on each student's interest and ability and to maximize your enjoyment of singing.

Essential to each individual musical journey is practice. Daily practice of exercises and songs is needed in order to strengthen and improve your instrument. Diligent and consistent practice leads to individual success.

Policies and Payment

School-Age Students

  • Lessons are paid monthly (September – June) by post-dated cheques; dated the first of each month. Students bring 10 cheques to their first lesson in September.

  • Attending your weekly lesson time is crucial for vocal development.

  • My schedule is full, so please do your best to be on time. Arrive several minutes early.

  • Make-up lessons are given for illness, inclement weather, special school trips and exams. Make-up lessons are not given for being late, “forgetting”, routine school sports, consistent scheduling of other activities at the same time as your lesson. If I am waiting for you and you do not come to lesson, I do not reschedule.

  • For cancellation, I need 24 hours, or reasonable time ahead. Calling me the afternoon of your lesson does not insure a make-up lesson. If possible, let me know ASAP for tournaments, family holidays etc. I am flexible and rarely have concerns!

Adult Students

  • 6 Lessons are paid for at one time.

  • A more flexible schedule is offered to accommodate trips and work commitments. Once 6 lessons are attended, students pay for the next set of 6.

Extra Fees and Materials

Music Books, Accompanist and Festival Registration Fees

  • All students will be asked to purchase several vocal books to enhance their learning program. Due to copyright laws, original music must be purchased not photocopied.

  • Accompanist fees are extra. Fees are determined in several ways: approximately $50/hour; difficulty level of music; amount of rehearsal time; length of performance activity; travel. Please consider this extra cost before signing up for extra performance opportunities.

  • Royal Conservatory of Music Exam Fees. Both practical voice exams and music theory exams are offered in my studio and will be discussed on an individual basis.

  • Registration fees for festivals/competitions – completely optional!

What to Bring To Your Lesson

  • 3 – Ring binder that stays open on a music stand. Filled with loose-leaf paper.

  • 5 dividers labelled: Vocal Warm-ups; RCM; Songs A-Z; Christmas Songs; Theory

  • Jump drive/memory stick devoted solely to voice lessons. In order to learn notes, melodies and practice at home, this is crucial to bring to each lesson.

Performance Opportunities

I provide my students with many performance opportunities, both in the studio and in the local community. I receive many calls for singers and recommend those who love performing, are responsible, practice and show enthusiasm for stage work. If a student wishes to sing in lesson, but not perform in public, that is also okay. Performing is a part of the studio but not essential for each student. A wonderful opportunity is the Renfrew Rotary Music Festival held in April – I highly recommend this Festival to students as it is an excellent experience to both watch and perform while receiving constructive criticism from a professional adjudicator.

  • Two recitals per year: Christmas, June

  • Renfrew Rotary Music Festival – 1 week in April: various classes offered

  • National Association of Teachers’ of Singing Festival (Ottawa): teacher invitation only

  • Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) Vocal/Theory Exams: discuss at lesson