Lessons in Vocal Technique

After a long and successful career as an opera and concert soloist and vocal pedagogue, I have returned to NY and have opened my studio in Westchester to singers of all ages. I was fortunate to have met Felix Knight, former leading tenor of the Metropolitan Opera, who my first voice teacher at the age of 14 and who remained my vocal mentor until his passing. Mr. Knight taught both opera and Broadway stars and imparted this very flexible, natural technique to me.

What was amazing is that although I had a very demanding schedule with over 25 major roles and performed about 80 operas a year, I could fully rely on a solid vocal technique, which stood me by this rigorous schedule!

I want to pass on this Italian technique to those aspiring to sing with joy and confidence. Having lived and worked all over Europe, I am fluent in German, Italian and French as well in the musical style needed for art song, oratorio and opera.

For those who wish to study with me in Italy during the summer, please visit my website and click Casentino Voice. See my website for more information about me: www.valeriegirard.com

Here are some reviews from my students:

"At last, someone who's willing and able to understand the individuality of my voice. Ms. Girard is a great teacher for the professional singer, though I regret I didn't study with someone like her when I was a student. She does not require that you start from the beginning again with 'her' technique. She is creative and intuitive and has the skill to help you immediately improve upon that which you already have. I am very excited that I have found her."

"I've studied with so many teachers, Valerie is the first one to focus on my problems, solve them and make me feel good about my strengths at the same time."