Teaching Philosophy

In the Kenjosian studio, singers are led to a profound understanding of themselves, their voices, and their musical abilities in four distinct areas. Each quadrant of training is crucial to the overall growth and success of the student.

Technique: How to Sing

The goal of good vocal technique is to achieve the best sound possible in the most consistent way possible with as little tension and fatigue as possible. Every singer requires instruction that is articulated in such a way that the intent is understood. The training should come from experience and be supported with current scientific findings. Each singer needs to develop a routine through carefully crafted vocal exercises.

Each vocalist should have a goal in mind. What are they trying to achieve with their voice/career? The singer needs to have a clear understanding of what happens physiologically to produce the desired sound. This requires developing mental and physical habits to consistently deliver the desired effect. As such, singers need accurate information about vocal functions, precise analyses of their vocal difficulties, and effective methodology for producing the vocal sound expected. Students have to be in touch with their instrument and body and benefit from an experienced teacher's guidance. Finally, singers require appropriate vocalises (vocal exercises) that incorporate all of these elements to encourage technical automaticity (muscle memory) when performing. They also learn to ask "What did I do that I want to keep?" and "What did I do that I want to do better or differently?"

Repertoire: What to Sing

A singer's repertoire isn't just about the pieces they sing. The voice type and fach are certainly crucial when deciding upon repertoire. However, there are many more elements that must be considered. Vocal selections have to compliment the singer's vocal abilities, maturity (physical and mental), personality, vocal stamina, and dramatic aptitudes. Singers must develop a clear and complete picture of the repertoire that suits them, reflecting and demonstrating a deep understanding of their instruments and their strengths as a performer.

Performance: Where to Sing and How to Market the Singer

Like all other forms of art, singing is a skill that is best when shared with others. Finding appropriate performance venues is a crucial element in a singer's overall development. The options are wide and varied; the operatic stage, a concert hall, a religious organization, and schools/community venues. More often than not, singers must actively create opportunities to share their art with their communities. That means that every singer must also be a bit of a salesperson. Students in the Kenjosian Studio benefit from practical experience and guidance to assist them as they navigate this sometimes daunting and overwhelming path.

Motivation: Why do you Sing?

Singers are multi-faceted performers who are musician, singer, actor, poet, and athlete simultaneously. We portray characters, tell stories, and communicate the deepest feelings and emotions of humanity. Throughout the singer's technical development, the vocalist must articulate what they (or their characters) are communicating. They have to consider the effect they want the audience to experience. As such, the singer should do some soul searching and answer the questions, "Why are you singing?" and "How can you communicate that through your practice and performance?"