If you would like to enhance your enjoyment and confidence in singing, prepare for a competition or audition or just learn how to sing correctly. Elayna's vast performing (soloist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and area orchestras) and voice teaching experience (20 + years), education (BA, MA) and vocal research make her the perfect choice for your voice teacher or vocal coach. 

Many of my students have been cast in various lead and supporting roles in musical theatre productions and classical opera and oratorio performances and won voice scholarships, singing auditions and competitions, and have been accepted at prestigious colleges. They sing with a healthy technique and enjoy their "new" voice.

                   SYSTEMATIC METHOD                    My vocal instruction is a very positive, consistent approach to singing. Students are taught with respect, affirmation and encouragement. Each lessons begins with warm up and preparation "exercises" that are specifically designed to correct or enhance the student's vocal sound and create a healthy voice. Vocal repertoire (songs) are carefully chosen to reflect the individual's interests and skill level in their chosen genre: classical, Christian, sacred, opera or musical theatre.

Techniques to help minimize or eliminate performance anxiety may also be emphasized.

Fall semester = end of August - December
Spring Semester = January - May
Summer Semester = May - August. 

There are only TWO REQUIREMENTS for admission to my vocal studio:

1. the desire to sing better
2. have the discipline to practice.

A solid foundation and consistent practice is crucial to building an exceptional vocal technique.

Daily warm ups are essential for creating a beautiful, pleasing tone, extending the range of the voice and achieving good breath support. Consistent practice is the key to success! Time spent carefully practicing will result in a lovely voice.

RECITALS: Students may participate in semester recitals in May and December upon recommendation. This is not mandatory, but highly encouraged.

There are only TWO REQUIREMENTS for admission to my vocal studio:

1. the desire to sing better
2. have the discipline to practice.

Specializes in Vocal Teaching, Coaching and Preparation for:

• Solo and Ensemble Contest
• College vocal auditions
• Musical theatre auditions 
• Church cantor training
• Building repertoire
• Beginner and want to sing
• Reaching your individual goals
  

Elayna's voice teaching techniques emphasize:

• Correct singing posture
• Correct diaphragmatic breathing
• Vowel shapement
• Diction
• Interpretation of songs
  
• Stage presentation
• Overcoming performance anxiety

Voice Instruction and vocal training is available for:

•  Classical Repertoire              (Italian, French, German, English)    
• Opera Arias                         
• Sacred Repertoire            (Hymns, Spirituals, Weddings and Funerals)
• Contemporary Christian
• Musical Theatre
• Vocal Standards
• Church Cantor Coaching

BENEFITS FROM VOCAL STUDY:

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Confidence
• Knowledge of self
• Posture and poise
• Study skills
• Physical awareness
• Preparation for performances
• Lifelong hobby
•VOCAL TECHNIQUE
• Expand vocal range
• Increase flexibility
• Build breath capacity
• Develop consistency of sound
• Increase accuracy
• Utilize the body as an instrument
MUSICIANSHIP
• Development of practice skills
• Exposure to foreign languages
• Experience with many styles of music
• Internalization and expression of emotion
• Working knowledge of the musical vocabulary
• Become a stronger member of your choir and/or soloist

                    Because of my 25+ years of voice teaching,                       it is my personal belief that ANYONE can sing well if they have the desire to sing better and the discipline to practice. 

(The only exception would be a physical limitation or injury.)

Elayna's Education

MA in Vocal Pedagogy, 1998        Northeastern Illinois University              Chicago, Il.

BA in Music Education, 1987       Northeastern Illinois University              Chicago, Il.

College                                                       American Conservatory of Music            Chicago, Il.                      

College                                                       Rosary College                                             River Forest, Il.         

College Prep Classes                               Taft High School                                          Chicago, Il.              

Endorsements:

“I’ve never seen anyone teach, teach and teach, and love it.” He pointed out that since arriving at LU in 1999, she has helped many students overcome the common barrier of transitioning from a low-intermediate level to the advanced level. Of particular note is her insistence on the proper vocalization of vowels, breathing techniques and delivery. The attention she pays her students on an individual basis has created and improved many voices over the years.
He said, “She has a long-haul perspective that goes beyond getting a student ready for an audition or meeting a short-term goal. She knows how to build a good voice.”                                                                                                                    (Dr. Lawrence Sisk, Lewis University Music Department Chair)

"Working with Elayna is truly a privilege She is not only completely knowledgeable and talented in training the voice, but the entire instrument and student as a whole. .. She is incredibly talented at guiding the student in the direction of becoming a successful and professional, poised performer, not just a great vocalist. Her personality paired with her invaluable knowledge and experience are a real gem!" (Melissa Orr)

"I highly recommend her as a teacher and a performer, as she excels equally in both." (Corinne Wallace)

"I heartily recommend Elayna for both performing and teaching roles. I have had the privilege of knowing Elayna since 2003. As a singer, she has a wonderful voice, and is a true professional who always strives for perfection. As a teacher, I found her to always be encouraging, consistent in her teaching methods, possessing a vast knowledge of music,  and always stretched me to exceed my own expectations. Her influence has touched me in music, and in life in general.    (Bob Cornejo)