"Hello, I have been a professional in the music industry since 1970, and I specialize in historic and traditional styles of European music, mostly written before 1700. I taught my first university level course while in my twenties, and have continued a teaching practice both privately and in a University setting in tandem with my performing career since that time. I have conducted a number of vocal ensembles in Southern Oregon, founded a program teaching early music at Southern Oregon University, and worked within one of the largest Arts Organizations in my State: The Oregon Shakespeare Festival, for over 30 years as both a performer and a music director. I also founded an ensemble that toured world-wide and released recordings in 54 countries, and my music has been heard throughout the world on NPR and other syndicated broadcasts.

As a singer I have had many years to create and finesse an approach to vocal technique that serves a variety of ancient and traditional styles of music from the lute songs of John Dowland to Sephardic music of medieval Spain, and Irish songs in the 'sean nos' or traditional style. This approach is based upon the use of deep belly breathing, support and resonance through relaxation and the use of 'buzzing' or humming to establish unencumbered sound. Students are encouraged to participate in the creation of their own unique voices, rather than aspiring to some preconceived idea of what a particular voice part should sound like. Issues including bridging 'the break' between head and chest registers, the pronunciation of early European languages, vocal embellishment specific to period and region, and selection of repertoire through the interpretation of primary sources are included for more advanced students. For beginners, you will receive an excellent foundation upon which to base your vocal technique, and one that will lend itself to your success in any number of musical styles. The basis of my approach is found within the 'Bel Canto' movement, lending itself to flexibility of the voic" less...