Home
About Cindy
Services
Contact Cindy

Click here to register for Voice Class or Repertoire Class.

VOICE CLASSES

Voice class is a great alternative for those who want to develop their vocal technique but do not want private lessons.  They may be right for you if:

  • you have never had voice lessons (or other music lessons) before
  • you’re a little nervous about singing and would feel more comfortable in a group environment
  • you want an inexpensive alternative to private lessons
  • you are an experienced singer  but would like to review the basics or special topics

Voice class is also a wonderful way to enhance your private study, providing an opportunity to work in a supportive peer environment and to explore specific topics more thoroughly. Advanced students may prefer Repertoire Class.

WILL I FIT IN WITH THE REST OF THE CLASS?

Classes are divided into beginner and intermediate levels, and a mixed session is also offered to accommodate different schedules.  You should register for the beginner’s class if:

  • you have never had music lessons or voice lessons before
  • you have never sung in a choir or done any solo singing on your own
  • you don’t read music or your skills are rusty
  • you are particularly shy about singing in public

You should register for the intermediate class if:

  • you’ve had voice lessons in the past or are currently taking private lessons
  • you sing regularly in a choir, or as a soloist
  • you are a confident singer who just needs some help with technical issues or wants to learn more about the basics and special topics

Still not sure where you belong? Cindy will be happy to give you a private evaluation and place you in the appropriate class.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE IN EACH CLASS?

Cindy’s voice classes are deliberately kept small in number so each student receives individual attention. Enrollment is limited to 10 students, but most classes top off at 6.

CAN MY FRIENDS AND I MAKE UP OUR OWN CLASS? CAN WE CHOOSE WHAT WE STUDY?

Yes! If you have a group of friends who would like to be in a class together and have specific interests you would like to explore (for example, International Phoenetic Alphabet or Italian diction), Cindy will customize a class for you.

WHAT HAPPENS IN VOICE CLASS?

We begin each class with a group warm-up, which includes technical instruction, followed by a discussion of the day’s topic, performance of assigned pieces, analysis, and instruction. Topics covered may include:

  • Vocal anatomy
  • Breathing technique
  • Support
  • Increasing range
  • Passaggio (the break)
  • Warming up properly
  • Performance anxiety
  • Interpretation
  • Auditioning
  • Choosing repertoire
  • Diction

Singers are encouraged to bring repertoire (choral or solo) that they are working on, especially specific problems they wish to address. Cindy will also make assignments.

WILL THERE BE PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES?

At the end of each six-week session, the class will vote on whether they wish to have a recital.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?

You should bring writing materials, a recording device, and any music you have been assigned.

DO I NEED TO BUY MATERIALS?

You may be asked to purchase music , or pay a nominal fee to cover the cost of photocopies.

WHERE DO CLASSES TAKE PLACE?

All classes take place at Cindy’s far northwest Austin home.

HOW LONG DO CLASSES LAST, AND WHEN ARE THEY SCHEDULED?

Classes are one hour long (Repertoire Class is 1.5 hours). See the Schedule page for a detailed list of sessions. If you are scheduling a class for your private group, it may be possible to select your own time and location.

HOW MUCH DO CLASSES COST AND HOW DO I PAY?

Cost for a six week session (six hours of instruction) is $150 per person. You may register online and mail a check or money order prior to the beginning of class. Payment must be received before your registration is finalized.

DO I HAVE TO AUDITION FOR VOICE CLASS? WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS?

There is no audition for voice class. You must be at least 14 years old and able to match pitch. It is helpful to read music, but not strictly necessary.

REPERTOIRE CLASS

Repertoire Class is an audience participation master class, an an opportunity for advanced singers to hone their performance, technical, and audition skills in a friendly, supportive, comfortable atmosphere. In each class, singers will perform one or two arias and receive feedback from Cindy and from their fellow artists in a guided discussion. Emphasis is on analysis rather than criticism, and the atmosphere is positive and supportive.  A pianist is provided.

At the end of each six-week session, a fun and informal public performance will be arranged. Performances might take place at a wine bar or restaurant, art gallery, church, private home, or other location.  Alternatively, we can stage a mock audition session, with a professional panel of "judges" to offer feedback.

Click here to register for Voice Class or Repertoire Class.