"Prepared me for debuts at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center"

November 1, 2017 Tony Howell & Co.

Susan has helped me rebuild my voice. After starting my professional career as an operatic soprano, I veered in other musical directions, without truly understanding how to sing in different styles, and in many ways, I hadn’t really figured out what I was doing in Opera! When I finally made it into her studio, I was vocally tired and emotionally worn out. From our first lesson, my voice was fresher and I had renewed hope. I knew I had found a teacher who had the skills to convey to me through her language, and, her carefully constructed exercises - what I intuitively needed to healthily function - but couldn’t navigate to, alone. We have been working ever since on healthy function throughout my range - which has broadened my expression and deepened my love of singing. Since I began studying with Susan, I have received “effortless” as feedback about my singing. We know as singers, that a lot of work goes on behind the scenes... but my experience of singing is now so much more enjoyable. My warm up is efficient and confidence-building. I have less fear of the unknown, as I have a technique that I can rely on, a map that I can follow, and, it’s one that frees me up to be more expressive and more present for “moments of inspiration.” Susan has guided me and prepared me for debuts at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in the last two years as a soloist, and, as part of a trio. With her guidance, I felt beautifully prepared for both. From the smallest church engagements to the biggest stages, I feel connected through my voice and my artistry. I feel now, that I am singing with my authentic voice, no matter what style.

Marla Kavanaugh, Soprano