Hi Friends!

Where did the year go? I barely noticed summer, and here we are at the start of the holiday season! This year also marks the two-year anniversary of the publication of my book (written with Dr. Elizabeth Gerbi), 88 Keys to Successful Singing Performances. I’m so proud of the wonderful reviews the book has received! NEWSFLASH… My book is now offered in a deluxe hard-cover edition! Inside you'll find the same helpful information. The original paperback and Kindle editions will still be available, but I hope this beautiful, laminated volume will make an even more impressive addition to your library — or a perfect gift for anyone who sings. Click here for more information.

HOW DO ONLINE SINGING LESSONS WORK?

Many people, including singing teachers, students, and professionals ask me about how I make online singing lessons productive and helpful. Well, first of all, we have to accept the limitations of technology. While the digital world is miraculous (especially for someone like myself who didn’t grow up with it), right now Zoom and FaceTime are mostly one-way streets. In other words, I can’t simultaneously accompany your singing online. Either you won’t hear me properly, or I won’t hear you. There are some workarounds, but they’re either undependable, expensive, complicated, or require a lot of setup. Using one device for the main connection (usually a laptop), and another device for the music accompaniment (usually a smartphone), makes things a lot easier, reliable, and successful. During a lesson, I can send you music tracks and PDF sheet music files via text message or email. It takes mere seconds to transmit, and then the vocals and accompaniments are transmitted all through your end of the connection. Easy, reliable, and a lot less hassle than driving into Manhattan!

BACK IN MANHATTAN!

Why did I hold on to my midtown Manhattan studio? Because when it’s necessary, I need to be able to work with my clients in-person, one-on-one. In my teens, I used to have to call different rehearsal studios to try and reserve space as needed. While I’m available online seven days a week, when you need a living, breathing “Bob,” I can be there for you! Deborah’s callback went incredibly well today, partially because we were able to work for 90 minutes the morning of the audition.

AUDITION TIP

Reading music, even a little, will help you feel much more confident as a singer, not to mention will help you make a much better impression in the rehearsal process if you can learn music quickly. It also doesn't hurt when you have a lot of callback music to learn in a very short period of time!

(For more Audition Tips, follow me on Twitter!)

JUST ANNOUNCED: On Sunday, January 22nd, Denise Simon and I will be doing our all-day Cabaret Workshop at the legendary Don't Tell Mama cabaret in New York City for teens and adults. For more information, please email Denise at info@denisesimoncoaching.com. I plan to send out a separate mailing as soon as all the details are solidified.

Best wishes for a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

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