Professional Singing Teacher - Melbourne

PROFESSIONAL SINGING LESSONS IN COBURG

My name is Michelle Francis Cook. I am a professional opera singer with more than 20 years experience of vocal instruction here and in Europe. I have experience in all genres including Operatic, Classical, Musicals (Classical and Modern) and a full range of Modern singing styles.
I teach from beginners to advanced levels.

To view my Website look up michellefranciscook

I concentrate on the development of vocal technique including:
The fundamentals of diaphragmatic breathing
The correct vocal support with development through exercises
Vocal placement, production and projection
Diction and phrasing
Interpretation and stage presence

ABOUT ME:

I studied privately with various teachers including Merlyn Quaife and completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Opera (Voice) at the VCA. Having won the National Acclaim Award I was sent to train in Florence Italy in the Young Artist program of the Opera of Florence, learning with the best teachers there. I have been based in Barcelona Spain performing in the Gran Theatre del Liceu and theatres throughout Spain, France, Germany, Prague, Chile and Italy, for the last 15 years.
I have studied in numerous Masterclasses for personal and teaching purposes, with notable Opera singers.

I was also head of the Vocal Department in Carro de Baco Theatre Academy in Spain between 2011-2018, where I taught young teens and adults modern singing and performance. A number of these students later went on to participate in The Voice Spain and one was a finalist.
Now returning to Australia I am available to teach Melbourne singing students at an International level.


CLASSICAL TECHNIQUE:

I teach the standard method of opera singing with particular knowledge of the Italian Bel Canto and German styles. It is fundamental throughout your training to discover your vocal area of expertise, the operatic style and Fach which is best for you voice.

I had the pleasure of learning the excellent technique of breath control used by Monsterrat Caballe learned in her Masterclasses. The support and the breath are developed via specific physical exercises and training. This is particularly good for students who notice weak vocal support and/or weak consistency of support which effects excellent phrasing.
Having lived internationally, my lessons are always focussed on the excellent diction and articulation for authentic pronunciation of operatic languages. Any student wishing to have an international career must address these issues early.

MODERN TECHNIQUE:

Prior to operatic singing I trained as a modern singer. I also sung Musicals and had Pop experience in my early years. I focus on developing sound technique and nurturing the singer to grow in confidence both vocally and in performance. Many of my past modern singing students have sometimes benefitted from the operatic breathing techniques and that of projection. For students who are seeking to enhance volume of their voice safely and augment projection, I have vast experience with this. I also work microphone skills and stage movement.

INFORMATION:

Classes are set to commence in January 2020. Limited places. I offer day time and evening classes. From 10am to 1pm and 3pm to 8pm (Monday to Friday)

Classical Students
Sessions are up to 1.5 hours ($100)
Modern Students
Sessions are up to 1 hour ($60)
Note: 1.5 hour sessions can be arranged if preferred.


Students are requested to prepare two arias / songs for their first lessons:
For classical students, preferably two arias or art songs of different genre or language.
For modern students, one ballad and one upbeat song.

After the first lesson, students are required to pay by month at the first week of each month. If there is illness or emergency, it is necessary to give 24 hours notice for cancellation of the class and the cost will be carried over to the following week.

To book a class, please contact me 0143 172 449
I look forward to meeting and working with you!