HOW WE WORK TOGETHER
For voice lessons in New York City, my studio is on the upper west side of Manhattan near Lincoln Center, where I live with my husband, Jonathan Baker. I also teach online and at the National Opera Center.
How do you begin?
Complete the New Client Application to enter the Shigo Voice Studio.
Once your application is accepted, I will send you instructions on scheduling a Discovery Session or give you a referral. Either way, you will start your journey.
During your Discovery Session, you will experience my teaching style; I will discover your learning style and learn more about you, your goals, and your aspirations. Be prepared to sing. We will dive into Bel Canto vocal technique; you will receive feedback on your current skill level and a detailed overview of how to proceed to the next level. A proposal for your review will follow after the session.
Your Discovery Session will be in person unless you prefer to meet online, do not live in Manhattan, or cannot travel to Manhattan. Online sessions are conducted via FarPlay. Instructions on how to use FarPlay are below. Evening sessions are online unless scheduled at the National Opera Center for an additional fee.
After completing your Discovery Session, we will know if we are a good fit. Then, you can proceed with Drop-In Sessions, a Semester, or a Project-Oriented Package. It usually takes a few days to process all the information. I am deeply invested in my students and know you will also want to think things over.
Your investment?
Your experience in the studio is tailored to you. As a result, your investment may not be the same as someone else's.
The Discovery Session [$175] is pivotal in determining your path.
Semester plans involve a 9-month commitment and begin at $600 each month.
Project-oriented packages involve 3-6 months and begin at $1800.
Semester plans and project-oriented packages include weekly synchronous and asynchronous instruction, masterclasses, and workshops.
Drop-in Sessions [$175] are available on a first-come-first-serve basis once you have completed your Discovery Session.
Who do I work with?
I work with talented singers of high school age to mature singers in their 60s and 70s: professional and dedicated avocational singers representing classical, musical theatre, and popular genres, as well as actors, executives, and public speakers.
I do not discriminate based on race, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, religious beliefs, or other protected status.
I offer limited tuition discounts to underrepresented and in-need artists.
What is a lesson like?
Voice lessons, both online and in NYC, focus on developing and applying your vocal technique to your repertoire and unique abilities.
Two-hour sessions with another client accelerate the learning process.
I will give you a protocol to follow involving tailormade vocal exercises within a graduated course of study and show you how to practice, solve problems, and advance toward your goal.
I aim to give you the tools to find your voice, fulfill your dream of being a singer, and help you become your teacher.
What about practice?
Your practice involves multiple 10 to 15-minute sessions. Students complete three 10-minute technique practice sessions before working on repertoire.
Online study
I use FarPlay for online lessons. FarPlay is a low-latency platform with superior sound quality. Once you experience FarPlay, you won’t look back.
Check your tech and set-up at FarPlay. FarPlay has excellent customer support and will help you with your setup. You need not upgrade from a free account unless you plan to record your sessions. When connected, you must disable any VPN network if enabled.
I recommend that you use wired open-back headphones so you can hear your voice in the room where you are singing (earbuds are not acceptable for singers), a good external microphone, an audio processor if needed, and an Ethernet cable. My setup includes an Ethernet cable, Sennheiser open-back headphones, a Focusrite solo (audio processor), an Audio-Technica AT2050 condenser microphone, a standard XLR male-to-female mic cable, and two cable adapters.
Policy
Voice lessons in New York City and online lessons are non-refundable. You are reserving time to access my brain, extensive knowledge base, and experience. Showing up for yourself is the first step.
There is a 48-hour cancellation policy. The full fee will be charged for all lessons canceled within 48 hours before the lesson. You are welcome to schedule the next lesson for the full fee.
There are no refunds for lessons that are canceled.
Lesson fees are not transferable and must be used within the allotted time.
The Shigo Voice Studio reserves the right to refuse or not continue lessons.
Research
Do you have questions about historical vocal pedagogy? Are you working on a dissertation or an article or simply curious? I am happy to help you with your inquiry, but I am not a public library. All research inquiries are invoiced for a minimum of $150.00.
The art of Bel Canto
Learn the art of Bel Canto with Garcia and Lamperti's vocal technique. Apply for voice lessons in New York City and online lessons.
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”
—ARISTOLE