Would you like to be a voice student?

Melissa Fontaine accepts students in the following categories, after audition:

Post-graduate voice majors who want to pursue performing opportunities, prepare for auditions, etc.

High School students interested in serious voice study.

Beginning Adults or those who have not studied for a while, who are committed to improving their solo singing skills.

MY PHILOSOPHY OF TEACHING

As a voice teacher, I hope to influence my students in more than their vocal technique, though that is my primary responsibility and interest. I believe my role is four‑fold: as voice technician, interpretive coach, career advisor, and mentor.

As a voice technician, it is my goal to help the student to find his/her true singing voice. This voice is produced freely and easily, not manufactured. My students each have their own unique, best sound. I work primarily with the sustained, energetic use of the breath and the release of the muscles of the tongue, throat and upper torso. I also work with solving the diction challenges inherent in each language (especially as they impact the individual student), both from a pronunciation and a technical standpoint.

As an interpretive coach, I work with students on the particular styles of singing with regard to time period, geographic area, and genre. For example, a 17th‑century Italian operatic aria will be sung in a different style as a 19th‑century German lied, and neither will bear any resemblance to 20th‑century American popular music. In addition, I work with students on their particular interpretation of each text, based on the above factors as well as the emotions expressed in the individual text. I approach interpretation from a visual and kinesthetic standpoint, as well as aurally.

As a career advisor, I want to encourage students to find their best strength and pursue it. However, determination to succeed in any field is a great plus. For the student who needs direction, I can help him/her to find that direction. In addition, my contacts enable me to give students opportunities to sing for people who can be helpful to them in their music careers.

As a mentor, I am available to my students not only in the prior three roles, but as someone who is approachable as a person. Singing is a very personal business. Though I do not give out personal advice (that is not my role), I believe that a person's emotional state impacts his/her singing, and I try to be available when I am needed.

To contact Ms. Fontaine about singing or auditioning, or if you are interested in becoming a voice student, please call her at 404.558.2582 or email at fontainesoprano@gmail.com.

Melissa Fontaine is accepting students for her private studio, located in Vinings near Vinings Jubilee and the Lovett School. Please call or e-mail her for an appointment and further directions.