Richard | Teacher #3311
About Richard
Richard, a Master of Music in Vocal Performance graduate from NYU Steinhardt, offers voice lessons online and in-home. With a background in musical theatre and operatic tradition, he emphasizes proper technique for any genre. Trained in acting through song, Richard brings songs alive by studying context and motivation. He's also a skilled guitarist, specializing in acoustic finger-style playing. With a philosophy of positive reinforcement, Richard creates a supportive learning environment. Book an interview now.
Voice
Online Lessons Lessons in Your Home
Jazz Pop Rock Rock and Roll Folk Broadway Musicals Rhythm and Blues
English
Teaching Philosophy
When it comes to teaching, I believe in positive reinforcement and endless optimism. I do not believe that the arts are a place for tough love; pursuing your passion should only ever be rewarding. When it comes to voice, I feel that proper technique is appropriate for any genre or style. The singer of a post-punk group will benefit from proper technique as much as an opera singer, if not more. My training focuses on opening your airways, breath control, and getting yourself in tune with your body, so that you can understand the important of proper technique; many teachers fail to teach the "why" of their methods, and I think that's a major failing.
Musical Education
I have a Master of Music in Vocal Performance, with a concentration in Music Theater, from NYU Steinhardt. From a young age I've enjoyed acting, and in high school I discovered that I can and steadily became more entrenched in the world of musical theatre. For my undergraduate education, I earned a BA in Drama from Queen's University, where I performed in many musicals, and then was accepted into NYU Steinhardt for my graduate studies. While there, my training was in the operatic tradition, focusing on breath control, air flow, and vocal care. At NYU, my vocal professor was Michael Ricciardone, a Julliard-trained musician who has worked widely as a pianist, actor, singer, and conductor. I also had the pleasure of studying under many professionals working on and around Broadway.
Special Skills and Trainings
Though my post-graduate education was a Master of Music, my education at NYU also included many classes on acting, primarily in Meisner technique. As a trained actor, especially in acting through song, I can also help prospective actors to bring their songs alive through proper study of context and motivation. Along with being a vocalist, I am also a skilled guitarist, specializing in acoustic finger-style playing. I'm just as, if not more, comfortable accompanying a singer on guitar as I am piano.
Lessons in your home
Richard is available to teach in your home if you are located in the following areas:- Toronto, ON
Lessons on an online platform
Richard can provide online instruction. While other platforms are possible BAH strongly recommends the use of the Zoom video conferencing platform as it is optimized for music lessons and audio quality.Reviews
Associate Teacher Lesson Rates:
Richard is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
- 30 minutes: $39
- 45 minutes: $49
- 60 minutes: $59
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Our Promise to You
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
-
Reviews about our Teachers
with ReviewsIO
-
Secure Payments
with Chase Paymentech
-
Verfified Teachers
with Certn