| Today in New York it is very difficult to find a voice teacher who teaches singing technique and can also act as a vocal coach, who concentrates on the interpretation and acting of the song. Most teachers are striclty classical and opera voice teachers and you must go seperately to a vocal coach for the rest of the skills you need to audition in musical theatre. Also there are very few who teach proper belt technique for the Broadway performer. Having started as a coloratura soprano and opera vocal performance major and coming full circle to graduate in musical theatre, and continuing with a Broadway career which includes shows such as Smokey Joe's Cafe, The Boy from Oz and Shrek the Musical, I understand the need for and the techniques involved in singing pop rock, country, gospel, and all styles for today's musical theatre world. If you listen to the soundtrack of Boy from Oz you will hear me on the high "D" above the staff on the last note of "I Still Call Australia Home" demonstrating my classical training. I had to hit an E above the staff 8 shows a week as the voice of the Bluebird in Shrek. Contrast that with "Bicoastal" from the Oz soundtrack which demonstrates a pop soprano and straight tone. (I am singing the top soprano line in the trio). The track from Eagle Song, Smokey Joe's Cafe sitzprobe and Quel Fromage demonstrate different belt styles, and "Do I Know What I'm Doing?" and "Blues My Naughty Sweetie" from Terry Waldo's Ragtime Album Let it Shine show an earlier jazz belt variety. Learn from someone who has the experience and the knowledge of the techniques you need to compete in today's musical theatre market, from a strong classical background to belt and all the styles varying between the two. Having danced extensively myself I understand the needs of a dancer to compete in this market as well. I can take you from the very first step, when other people might think you're tone deaf, to a trained instrument, and I can help those who are already professional improve their range and technique. I have worked with some of the very best in the business and have much to impart. My rate is ridiculously low for this city, in the hopes of helping out fellow performers who I know are not always able to afford lessons. Rates are $50 for a one hour lesson. Contact me to discuss your needs at ColleenHawks@Juno.com |