Voice
CCM Prep offers a variety of lessons for the aspiring singer. The voice division consists of professional musicians, all trained to teach people how to sing, not only for today and tomorrow, but for the rest of their lives. Our teachers offer one-on-one training, providing knowledge in efficient breath control and posture, as well as usage of vowels and consonants in several languages, phrasing, dynamics -- all the elements of good vocal production. We begin by teaching a classical technique, which can then be modified to any style desired by the student. On staff, we also have a jazz teacher, for those who prefer to concentrate in that style of singing.
The youngest student we will take is 14 years of age. There is no upper cap. We also teach all types and styles -- from pop to opera and everything in between. Some of our students have never studied before, and, as such, start from the very beginning with us. Others have studied elsewhere. With those students, we build on what they already know.
Many people who come to us have misconceptions about singing -- how sound is produced, what constitutes good breathing for singing, etc. It is our job to help the student change their bad habits (whether taught or natural) and accentuate their good ones.
Throughout the year, there are many opportunities for our students to perform, either through department recitals or through private studio recitals. We plan on providing monthly Master Classes taught by various teachers on the faculty, which will give students chances to perform and learn with other students. The Merit Festival, held in May, provides an opportunity for voice students to sing for the entire voice faculty and receive valuable evaluations. Students participating in the Festival may be eligible for financial scholarships for the upcoming academic year.
Along with offering private lessons, in the fall we will be offering a Voice Class for Adults. This will be for adults that want to sing better, but either don't have the time or desire (or nerve) for a face-to-face encounter with a voice teacher. It will be a small class, and opportunities will be provided for as much in-class participation as desired.
New this year, we also with have a voice coach on staff, who will be shared by the Musical Theatre Division. A voice coach is not a voice teacher. A voice teacher teaches vocal technique. A voice coach teaches particular style and interpretation, as pertaining to a specific song. This is a service we are proud to provide, and we have great expectations for success in this venture.
The CCM Prep Department is exploring additional satellite locations, allowing easier and more convenient access to our program. We plan on providing a voice studio in these additional locations. Please check our website for updated information.
Faculty
+Jill Dew
+Lisa Ericksen
Andria Helm
+Trio Jeng
Christopher Neely
Margaret Ozaki
+William Seale
Jessica Stern-Enzi
+surcharge teacher
Adult Voice Class
Instructor: Jill Dew
Fall: September 29 – December 12, 2009
Spring: Februaru 2-April 12, 2010
Tuesday, 7:00-8:00 pm
Cost: $100.00 for students who study private voice at CCM Prep
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This is a 10 week course for adults to explore efficient vocal technique. It will include vocal mechanics, care and maintenance of the voice, voice type characteristics, and an assessment of the student’s voice. It is intended for non-professional singers who want to learn about standard vocal techniques and tools. The student will be assigned at least one song to prepare and perform in class so some ability to read music is expected. The class will be handled in the manner of a masterclass where all get the opportunity to sing and learn from each other.