FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My standard rate of $50 per hour is just that... a standard. A pretty reasonable one if you look at the industry standards. My prices only get lower from here. Let me cut to the chase and tell you how to lower my prices: -Meet me at my place -Save me gas, and I'll give you a pass. I will lower my rate, and be able to give you more time. -Be on time, or even reasonably early -I have several students who are busy and end up a bit late to most lessons. That's understandable, life happens, but as I like to ensure my students have enough time for progress in each lesson, this takes up a bit more of my personal time to make up for time missed. While I don't charge extra in most cases, time is still money, so I can't exactly afford to give you a discount. -Do the homework -I give homework pinpointed to your specific vocal needs, and I try to streamline homework to simple noises you can make in the shower or while doing housework. I understand most students can be busy, but focus is important. The faster you improve, the faster I get to show you off. While your improvement will give me warm fuzzies and a twinkle in my eye (just ask my past students when their reviews clear on this site), it will also give me a tool to generate more revenue. Showing your vocal talent off and getting a written testimonial generates money for me, so why shouldn't it generate savings for you? -Refer additional student(s) -This speaks for itself. I would charge a lower price for both you and your referral. -Other benefits -I am wide open to suggestions on how you may help me help you. ... and most importantly... be a friend! I have met many of my students outside of the lesson period. With a mug like that, I can't afford to be mean. And with my prices having gone as low 20 per hour, you can afford to be a friend. What does that mean? In my experience, my friends tend to be respectful, kind, open minded, and maybe exchange heartfelt presents with me now and then (my heart tends to really feel things that can go in my stomach, hah). So what are you waiting for? You could be lowering my price as soon as today!
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
If you want to get a jumpstart, reach out to me telephonically (3O1-9O8-4467) by downloading WhatsApp for any major smartphone platform. Use the recording feature to send me an acapella sample of you singing what you like for a minute or more. I will render vocal analysis in an audio response. This is all free, including any questions you may have regarding my analysis. Try before you buy. For the first lesson, PLEASE set aside at least two hours. Any further time past the two hours is on the house. Bring a notebook and writing utensil!!!
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My undergraduate degree is in Linguistics and Biology. Biology teaches us how the voice works, while Linguistics teaches us what we can do with our voices. I also have SLP level training in voice health (including looking my real live vocal cords under a camera!!!). In addition to staying current on vocal trends (keeping up with every genre on radio, The Voice, American Idol... no matter what I personally feel like listening to) and vocal research (would love to discuss this with you if you're interested), my most valuable source of continuing vocal education is... *drum roll* YOU!!! No, really. Your response to my curriculum does not fall upon deaf ears. My lesson plans are breathing entities that constantly update to match your specific needs. I have created at least two new drills for each one of my students, which adds to my total working arsenal.