Gordon Finlay

Introduction: I have been teaching private voice at Wayne State University for over 20 years, where my students have been performance majors as well as musical theater, music education, and music technology majors. In addition, I still maintain an extensive private studio, where my students’ interests cover a broad range of music types, voice ranges, and abilities. So while I myself am a classical singer, I have great success with students of all varieties. What I can do for you: a. match pitch and produce a natural tone without strain or force. b. use head tone, chest voice, and blending the two c. sing independently and with others d. recognize and correct unhealthy approaches to speaking and singing e. perform vocal repertoire (folk song, art song, musical theater, and popular song) with greater assurance, ease, and expression Thank you, Gordon Finlay I create a fun and exciting learning environment. My vocal teaching is easy to understand, and students catch on and can see improvement even in the first lesson. The most exciting aspect is when the students realize they are singing higher, freer, and with a beautiful resonant vocal sound. What to expect in a private voice lesson. 1. Greet the student and help him or her feel comfortable. 2. Explain briefly the vocal technique. 3. a. Vocal placement - head tone b. Breath support - diaphragmatic breathing. 4. Vocalize - exercises to build the voice and become the vocal warm up 5. Learn repertoire - fun and exciting songs that help built the student’s ability. 6. Learn how to deliver/perform a song 7. a. Minimal movements/stage deportment b. How to express/perform the songs with the correct feeling. The lesson atmosphere is fun, uplifting, and all students can benefit from lessons I offer. I teach students to become performers and to win the parts they auditioning for!