Voice Lessons in Berkeley, CA

I teach internationally by Zoom. I have students in Singapore, Armenia, England, the East Coast, Midwest, and West Coast. We come together biannually for Masterclasses where the students, singing and piano, all ages, levels, and genres, perform for each other. It's a real community of art and friendship. My education (BM, MM and DMA in Piano Performance from USC, plus years of vocal study), performance experience (international tours as an accompanist) and teaching experience (both university and private) give me a unique perspective. Being involved in theatre, I also emphasize the dramatic aspects of interpretation (facial expression and gestures) in vocal coaching. I use technology to work on both the audio and visual aspects of performance. Lessons are structured to include both technique and repertoire. For singing lessons, I combine the functions of three separate professionals: voice teacher, accompanist, and coach. It costs a lot less to hire one professional instead of three! My fees are: 60 minutes=$120, 45 minutes=$90 and 30 minutes=$60 (only recommended for young students who can't concentrate for longer periods). I look forward to working with you!

Hello- My name is Michael Dashefsky I have worked as a performing arts professional for over 8+ years. My Training: I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre Performance from California State University Fullerton. My Professional Experience: I have performed as a vocalist and piano player for : Disney, Universal, Holland America Cruise Line and Princess Cruise Lines. I also sang on a Broadway Style Christmas National Tour and also performed in several regional theatre productions in Southern California. I have also worked in Chicago as an assistant music supervisor for the Beatles and Shakespeare production of As You Like it where I played piano, sang, music directed and played a character in the show. I am a member of the Actors Equity Association. We can come up with an action plan to work on your current strengths and areas for improvement. All ages and all skill sets welcome. Why study with me? I am directly working in the performing arts industry and I am not just a teacher who solely focuses on teaching students. I am an active performer myself and I bring my experience as a professional in the industry to each student I work with to teach them industry specific techniques. Lets make some music!

RESULTS. I can save you time and money with a technique that is so effective you will see results in minutes, rather than weeks or months. We will not spend multiple lessons just learning how to breath, or running through silly exercises that don't help. At each lesson, a workout program will be customized for the needs of your voice to keep it progressing steadily. Through clear instruction and guidance, students gain control and an understanding of their instrument which lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, effective singing! I love working with voices and being a part of their development. I don't care how good or bad a singer is when they come to me. I get excited when I hear the progress we make at each lesson and as the voice develops over time. Ask me for a 1/2 price trial lesson! I currently offer both in-person (Solana Beach, California) and online lessons.

I am an opera tenor and actor with international performing experience including the World Tour of Phantom of The Opera and 300 stage roles, offering voice lessons for all musical styles, especially for classical and musical theater. First lesson is a free introduction lasting at least a half hour. Then $60 per online lesson lasting at least 60 minutes. Please add comments on your favorite music and singers when you apply. I teach online and in South San Francisco, CA. SEE REVIEW BY DEL LAZARO BELOW As a professional vocalist, I highly recommend Ross Halper for voice instruction. With my band Legaci, I have toured as a backup singer for Justin Bieber, and more recently, I wowed the judges on AMERICA'S GOT TALENT 2014, receiving a standing ovation from the audience. Ross is an amazing instructor who has helped me improve my voice tremendously. He is a classically trained tenor who's sung around the world. Ross applies classical voice techniques that work toward improving your voice for any style, whether it's classical, musical theater, or pop. He has many vocal tools to improve all aspects of your voice, and will work with to push you beyond your limits. (And he doesn't watch the clock!) When I first started with Ross, my higher range was limited, and my voice felt weak and unsupported. Studying with him for several years, I've learned techniques that have made my voice stronger and more resonant. In addition, he's helped sing in my tenor range with more confidence. I'm now singing the higher notes that I never thought would be possible. If you are looking to make some real vocal progress with a passionate and knowledgeable vocal instructor, then begin studying with Ross Halper." Sincerely, Del Lazaro