Faculty Biography

"My teaching style is calm, cheerful, and student-friendly, but disciplined. I love to teach, and my students tell me it shows. I’m not interested in teaching only so students can pass their proficiencies. Instead, I try to treat them with the same expectations and dignity due to young artists.

"The young voice student is often insecure about his or her own ability. My job is to make each student feel more positive and confident, to help them develop, and—when they really know how to sing—to empower them to pursue their musical dreams. A step-by-step approach, with lots of room for making mistakes, is crucial. Later, when the student is able to sing easily and efficiently throughout the range, I introduce ideas of style in the various genres.

"I like to describe my method of teaching voice as psychosomatic. It’s what I call 'thought singing.' My utmost priority is to help students understand how their voices work and how to keep their voices healthy for the long haul. It is important for them to know what the exercises are for and what they will eventually impart to the development of the voice. A great vocalist must have total control of the instrument and a unique, personal stamp in their chosen style.

"I have been a performer for the last forty years, and continue to be. My present band, Bellevue Cadillac, has been nominated to go on the ballot for several Grammys in 2007. I sing at least once weekly in shows and nightclubs, playing original music in all styles. I know what a singer needs to do to sing well consistently."