1. What is your greatest passion or joy as a singer, voice teacher, or vocal professional?
I just love being able to make a difference in a student’s life. I don’t just want to teach people to sing, but I want them to know they are important to me and that we are on this vocal journey together. Growing vocally isn’t just about the voice—it’s about making life changes, being vulnerable, taking chances, and so much more. I consider it a great honour when a student allows me to come into their lives and walk with them through their victories as well as through the difficult things that life throws at them.
2. Please tell us the latest news about you, your studio, and your work.
Summer often brings a change in schedule for me. This summer I have really enjoyed doing workshops for churches. The difference is that it’s not specifically geared to the on-stage singers. My goal has been to remove vocal barriers to worship. We’ve been going in-depth to understand our voices so that whether we’re singing on stage or in a congregation, our focus can be on worshipping our Saviour rather than worrying about whether we’ll hit a note, or our voices will crack. I want people who have been told that they shouldn’t sing to be able to sing with joy and confidence!
3. What is an interesting or funny fact about you?
I am one of the rare humans on the planet who can competently and neatly fold fitted bed sheets.
4. What led you to the NYVC Voice Teacher Training & Certification Program?
I searched online for a program that was practical and affordable. I didn’t just want a certificate for my wall, I wanted to be equipped to make a difference. I totally saw this in Justin’s videos, and I knew that I wanted to learn from someone like him.
5. What was your experience in the NYVC Voice Teacher Training & Certification Program?
Life changing! I felt mentored, equipped, and encouraged. I feel like I have the tools I need to teach as well as the foundation I need for further studies. I am so fortunate that I found this program because I would not be the teacher I am today without it!
6. What advice would you give to future participants of the Program?
Take copious notes and watch/rewatch the class videos. After completing the training program, I taught for a number of months and then decided to watch the class videos again only to be reminded of some valuable nuggets of information that I had forgotten about.
7. What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an artist, teacher, or vocal professional?
The biggest challenge I face is when a student is looking for a quick fix to their vocal problem. I find it difficult when I work with a student and give them exercises tailored to their struggles and goals, only to have them return for their next lesson without practicing and then once again expecting me to provide that magic solution.
8. What was your greatest victory ever as an artist, teacher, or vocal professional?
Every time I work with a singer and they can do something they formerly could not, the look of surprise, excitement, and joy on their face is the best feeling ever. Those are the victories I strive for and delight in.
9. What is one piece of advice that you would love all singers to know?
Play with your voice. Don’t be afraid to make weird sounds because they are often the gateway to new singing abilities.
10. What is something you've learned on your journey that you would love other vocal professionals to know?
Serve your students with love and compassion, but you need to leave the growth up to them as they are the ones who have to do the actual work. Be confident and diligent in your role and then be willing to let go of any other burdens placed upon you because you can only be responsible for your part.
11. How can we find out more about you and your work?
Visit me at www.jrvocals.com or you can email me at jrvocalcoaching@gmail.com
