Davis Vocal Studios
Studio Information
Voice Lessons
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Here are some of the priorities we like to cover when working with singers:
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better vocal control and intonation
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breath support, management and stamina
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singing high notes with more power and less strain
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healthy belting/ mix voice technique
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performance coaching
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song interpretation and diction
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defining and understanding the transition through your passaggio
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vocal mapping and re-balancing
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vocal maintenance strategies and injury prevention
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singing rehab exercises for singers with injuries who are cleared to sing again
Technique
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Our foundations of vocal technique were formed during our professional operatic training in 17th, 18th and 19th century vocal pedagogy principles – bel canto which means “beautiful singing”. We have taken these principles and adapted them for the needs of the modern singer and the results have been amazing! Every style of singing is very different and understanding how to navigate through these different nuances as a singer can be very challenging. Having the right foundational technique will help support your voice and allow you to sing in the genre of your choice with power while helping to prevent vocal injury. We can also provide advice on repertoire that would best suit your voice and provide guidance on your potential range and vocal possibilities.
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Philosophy
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The philosophy of technique that we embrace is built on the foundation of working with voices of all experience levels from beginner to professional as we guide them to sing in a free and natural manner, smoothly, from the bottom of the range to the top with no breaks or sudden changes in quality. Training in this technique gives our students access to all dynamics, with tonal clarity and flexibility. It also helps improve a singer’s range, endurance, stamina, breath management, resonance, vocal strength and vocal quality across all styles of music without fatigue or damage to the voice. These results are accomplished by teaching the singer to find a balance between airflow and intrinsic muscular resistance or appoggio, all within a resting laryngeal posture. Singing should flow and feel powerful, but without strain. Your singing should feel natural and free with an expressive quality and there shouldn't be a break in your voice. Our approach will help you discover an evenness in your tone from bottom to top and help you to achieve vocal balance.
Lesson Format
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Each lesson is catered to what your needs are as a vocalist. In your first session with us, it is critical that we assess your voice. We will ask you a few questions to get an idea of what you are looking to achieve vocally and we will also ask you to sing a few scales so we can hear and become familiar with your voice currently.
Other Areas We Cover
Here are some of the other areas we can cover in your sessions, depending on what your priorities and goals are:
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Vocal Wellness
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tips on how to keep your voice in good shape and avoid injury
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a referral and liaison with a local voice therapist or local ENT
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exercises designed for voice maintenance
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rehab exercises for singers who have had vocal injury and are cleared to sing again
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RCM Vocal Exam Preparations
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We prepare students to take RCM Voice Exams (Preparatory, Grades 1 -10 and ARCT)
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Help students with repertoire selections that are grade and voice appropriate
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Coach language and diction
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Performance preparation
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Prepare and coach musicianship exercises
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Teach sight singing skills
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Ear Training / Theory
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We offer students of any ability or background instruction in RCM Ear Training and Theory.
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RCM Speech Arts and Drama
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Instruction in Mime Scenes, Speeches and Storytelling
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Improvisation
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Sight Reading
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Performance and Communication Coaching
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Instruction in Using the Voice and Body to Communicate
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Help students with repertoire selections that are grade appropriate
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Audition Preparation and Role Coaching
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song selection consultations
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vocal and performance technique training
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application to specific songs or larger roles
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Tour Preparation and Maintenance for Singers
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currently on touring or gigging or performing frequently
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have experienced vocal fatigue or any vocal health issues
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need to ‘tweak’ their vocal technique for their performances
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set list consulting
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voice care consulting
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Voice Instructor Mentoring
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vocal pedagogy studies
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education and curriculum coaching
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wellness for voice instructors
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consulting for their own clients
Facilities
Our studios are fully equipped to offer online lessons via Zoom and in-person lessons will resume this August 2021. When in-person lessons do resume we will offer our students the additional safety of our self designed and self manufactured Covid studio shields.
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Illness Policy
Students should not attend lessons in-person if they have any cold or flu like symptoms. When students are ill but wish to have their lesson the session can either be conducted online via Zoom or if cancelled with more than 24 hours notice can be rescheduled to another time when the student is no longer displaying symptoms. Make-ups will not be offered with less than 24 hours notice of a cancellation.