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About
"Stepping Out" performance classes


This class is for those who are 12 years of age and up who wish to experience the excitement and fun of standing in front of a band performing for an appreciative audience. It is for those who are realizing their dream for the first time or those who wish to hone their professional skills. The class is six 4-hour sessions over a 7-week period and includes 3 hours of private practice with our accompanist and bandleader. The sessions take place on Saturday between 12 noon and 4pm and the Sunday after the last class there is a 4-hour rehearsal with the band and a performance that night. The venue is filled with supportive and adoring friends and family members.

Each class

During the 4-hour class we work on:

a) blocks to performing

b) relaxation and stretching exercises

c) breathing and vocalease exercises

d) performing for the rest of the rest of the class

During this last part of the class we work on microphone technique, connection with the material and how to “be” with an audience.


The band

March Hare has been playing for the class for over 12 years. They understand the philosophy behind the class and are very supportive of the process.


History of the class

The class came about in Toronto when a friend, Dr. Jennifer Kos, asked me to teach a version of a class that she took in LA. She brought the format to me and we worked together on the first few classes. I brought my training, relaxation exercises, body awareness and 20 years of solid experience to the structure. The way I teach this class is informed by my training in the Actors Institute to lead the Mastery, a breakthrough weekend originally designed for performers, many years and classes in the area of self-development, classes and training the area of transformation technology and of course, the years of apprenticeship with Carolanne Clouston.

I recognized early on that this was a class that filled a huge gap between wanting to perform in this particular domain and actually doing it. In dance, in sports, in theatre, there is training and an opportunity to work in front of the rest of the class then in front of a paying audience. This doesn’t happen for singers who want to work in the popular field. Jazz singers, R and B singers, country, folk and rock singers have to find their way by trial and error. That has been my experience. If I had had the kind of training that I’m now able to give my students, I feel I could have done more with my performance opportunities and my voice.


My philosophy

I believe that everyone has a voice that is capable of singing and that everyone has a right to explore and work with that voice. Some people sing more easily because of their influences. For instance, Italians can sing more easily because of the prevalence of music in their society and culture. Some people have more difficulty singing because of perceived or real criticism from others and others’ fears and agenda. Genetics play a part in a voice being what is commonly agreed on as beautiful. But everyone has a right to sing no matter the sound of the voice. It is a form of self-expression to which everyone has a right. I believe in constructive criticism and positive reinforcement. Every voice is valid.


Upcoming classes

The next classes start October 2nd with the performance happening on November 14th and January 15th with the performance happening on February 27th.

If any of the participants need to miss a class I will make up that class with a private session up to two classes.

Cost is $525 and to hold a place in the class I would need a deposit of $125. There are only 10 spots available.