What do I teach?
I teach voice using a combination of Fitzmaurice Voicework and Somatic Experiencing. These two techniques together allow us to release the breath, body and voice at a deep level so the voice can function according to its physiological design. Many voice techniques are ‘from the neck up’, focusing purely on the sounds and ignoring the body, breath, emotions and other responses that may arise when we are being seen and heard. I work with the whole body as an instrument, recognizing that every part of the body plays a part in vocal expression and performance.
Who will benefit from this work?
Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a seasoned professional, this work can help you move toward accessing your whole voice, full expression and compelling presence. This work is an especially good fit for those who know they have experienced trauma that affects their voice, those who have intense emotions that tend to interfere with breathing, singing or speaking, or those who suffer with performance anxiety or stage fright.
What does a session look like?
Whether online or in person, we start with a check-in about how your voice and body are feeling, and what your desires and curiosities are at this moment. This leads into some physical release work (called destructuring) tailored to your body’s needs followed by some intentional explorations of sensation, vocal vibration, energy and effort (called restructuring). This restructuring work may be a full-body experience or may be specifically focused on particular muscles in the vocal anatomy, depending on your goals. If you are working with a specific piece of music or text we will spend some time exploring it with a focus on expression, creativity or performance.
What does a session NOT look like?
It does not look like singing scales or arpeggios, me giving you things to ‘fix’ about your sound, or me telling you when it’s good or right. I will give feedback, draw your attention to things you’re doing that you may not be aware of, and offer explorations to help guide you toward your goals. Ultimately, it’s your voice and your experience, and you get to decide whether YOU are happy with how it feels and sounds!
Do you have special qualifications?
I am a Certified Associate Teacher of Fitzmaurice Voicework and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. I have a BFA in Dance from Simon Fraser University and over twenty years’ experience teaching voice. I am currently studying psychology at a post-secondary level and preparing to begin a Master’s of Counselling program in 2024.
How do I get started?
I’ve found it the most effective to start with 4 sessions, weekly or bi-weekly, that I tailor to your specific goals. Email me to schedule your first session, and we will have a phone/zoom chat beforehand to get acquainted and create a plan that meets your needs. I am currently seeing clients in person (in North Vancouver) and also via zoom where appropriate.
What does it cost?
A 1-hour session is $125CAD.