Dr. Stephanie's Voice & Piano Lessons

Serves Milford, CT

35244

Hired 181 times

1 employee

40 years in business

$60

4.9

This pro accepts payments via PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.

Next Service

Hours

Sun Closed

Mon 10:00 am - 9:00 pm

Tues 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wed 10:00 am - 9:00 pm

Thurs 10:00 am - 9:00 pm

Fri 10:00 am - 9:00 pm

Sat 10:00 am - 9:00 pm

Credentials

Background Check

Stephanie Hutchinson
Completed on 9/25/2023

Introduction

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!

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

The first lesson may be paid separately in order to try it out; after that, payment is due for the balance of the month. The "gold standard" for adults is one 60-minute lesson per week. One 60-minute lesson=$120. Half the lesson is spent on technique and half on repertoire. One 45-minute lesson=$90. Half the lesson is spent on technique and half on repertoire. One 30-minute lesson (recommended only for young children who can't concentrate for a longer period of time) =$60.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I first ask them to sing or play something, to assess their level. If they've never sung or played before, that's OK! We also have a conversation regarding their musical goals. Once we begin training, I use technology to work on both the audio and visual aspects of performance.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

My BM, MM and DMA degrees are in Piano Performance from USC. I also studied voice with noted USC professors. As a choral accompanist (university and community choirs) I've toured Europe, Canada and Australia. Being involved in theatre, I also emphasize the dramatic aspects of interpretation and stage deportment.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

My grandmother and aunt taught school in one room schoolhouses, so teaching runs in the family! I gave my first music lesson (violin) on my 17th birthday!

What types of customers have you worked with?

All ages and levels of voice (Classical, Broadway, jazz, folk, pop) and intermediate to advanced piano (Classical), plus vocal coaching and accompanying. I specialize in audition preparation.

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

Recently two of my students received scholarships; one was accepted into grad school at NYU, the Old Vic, ACT and Juilliard. He’s going to Juilliard on a scholarship. He’s an actor who had never sung before studying with me. I also coached a 13-year old in FL (by Skype) to prepare audition songs. He received a full Fine Arts scholarship to a private HS. He had never sung before our lessons.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

I am probably not the least expensive teacher, but please consider this: I can immediately diagnose a bad habit/fix a problem which a less experienced/less expensive teacher may not see, which saves you money in the long run. Think of me as a top surgeon (without the pain!) 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!

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

The worth of music--it's not a "frill" or "add-on" but a deep human need. I love seeing new students succeed in their first Masterclass or Recital, and the pride of their family and friends.