Educational Philosophy:

A college education should be provided to all individuals who have a desire to grow and learn. I believe that the success of a teacher goes beyond teaching the required curriculum. As a voice teacher, I am not only responsible for teaching the basic fundamentals of singing, but I am often there to nurture the human being. A productive voice studio requires an environment that is demanding, yet safe and encouraging. Professions that require individual interaction with students provides an opportunity for both the student and the teacher to grow. I anticipate working with various levels of singing ability and learning new things from each of my students.

Each student is responsible for their own vocal progress. An effective voice teacher will not only provide students with a strong technical background, but she will also inspire them to practice and master their skills.

I believe that voice students should cultivate an interest in standard classical repertoire at an early age. By listening to various classical singers, they will begin to have an affinity for this type of music. If students are willing to devote the time for developing their ear, they will soon set vocal goals for themselves and become more directly involved in their choice of repertoire.

I encourage my students to develop their own thoughts and vocabulary regarding the function of their voice. Growth and understanding come through taking ownership of one's own education; and as a teacher, I am there to facilitate and guide students as they discover their individual voice.

Technique is fundamental in singing. As a pedagogue, I believe that teaching breathing, posture, and proper phonation is primary in the development of the singer. Proper technique not only improves students' musicality skills but also prevents the occurrence of vocal pathologies. The foundation of a good technique begins with a basic concept of breath. Breath pressure in singing not only affects the onset of sound, but it is directly related to the quality of sustained phonation. A relaxed breath results in a free sound.

Voice students should have a desire to understand the basic physiology of the voice. Although it may not have a direct influence upon the production of sound, knowledge of the vocal mechanism will greatly help in the understanding of the coordination of musculature and sound and will continue to further the goal of producing a well-rounded musician.

Singing is a personal and sensitive art. A singer will grow in their musicianship if they work in a positive and supportive environment. I expect my students to encourage and help one another in the process of learning. By maintaining a positive attitude that extends beyond the studio, students become better musicians, teachers, and adults in society.

Heide-Marie Slezak