FAQs
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Yes, all the time. I am constantly trying new vocal, guitar, or song writing books. Most have something great to offer, even if a lot of it is also just the instructor or author using different words to say the same thing someone else said a year ago. It is really, REALLY important to remember that professional musicians are also professional students. The difference is that it is a lot harder for us to find an instructor, but that doesn't mean we stop looking and learning.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I come from a musical family, and have a father who sings. However, when I left home, I didn't have anybody to help me master my voice. The only lessons I could take as a vocal performance student were opera lessons, and aside from teaching me the importance of breathing, the instructor couldn't accommodate my style (I am a big fan of black-belt singers like Jeff Buckley, Robert Plant, Freddie Mercury, and the likes). I decided to just buy a lot of books and lessons packs and learn what I could. I eventually went back to singing in my father's band, and that taught me more than I would have learned in school alone. At some point, I decided that nobody else should have to suffer instructors who wouldn't let them master their own style, and started giving instruction. I have never regretted that decision.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Take advantage of the free lesson. We all offer one, and it is really the only way to tell if you will work with the instructor. Also, decide whether or not you, or your child, really want to be a musician. If you are really only looking for a way to sing better at home, or at Karaoke, you will approach the lessons differently. However, still get the lessons!