I teach both the Alexander Technique (AmSAT certified) and voice lessons (BMus from Manhattan School of Music). 

You do not need to be a singer to study the Alexander Technique - it is for everyone to benefit from! It is a method of self care that can help anyone improve their posture and reduce chronic pain.

When I teach voice lessons, I always use the principles of the Alexander Technique.  Your voice is your instrument, so learning about how you body moves and works is an integral part of singing efficiently and passionately.  My way of working is to customize every lesson toward each person's unique and personal style. No one person is alike in how they think and move, so teaching everyone the same exact way would be a detriment to learning. By listening to and watching you, I can determine a helpful and fun course of improvement for your own vocal awareness and style. Using the tools of the Alexander Technique and my many years of vocal training, I will teach you how to have more ease and enjoyment while singing in a healthy way.

The Alexander Technique is a gentle, hands-on way of learning how to have more ease and awareness of your self.

One of my most influential mentors, Sandra Bain-Cushman, puts it this way: "The goal of the Alexander Technique is to restore freedom and expression to the body and clear thinking to the mind."

One aspect of AT work is called "table work". With table work, you will lie on your back on a massage table (fully clothed) and I will gently glide your body into releasing unnecessary muscle tension without the challenge of having to be upright. This will help to restore to you body and mind a sense of ease and freedom.

In an AT lesson, you will perform everyday activities such as getting in and out of a chair, walking, and standing. We will also look at ANY activity you would like help with. This could be running, sitting at the computer, playing an instrument, bending over to pick up a baby, chopping vegetables, etc... the possibilities are endless!

'I have been working with Susanna for two months. In these two months, I have benefited greatly from her expertise of the Alexander Technique. Initially unsure of what I would get out of the experience, I was amazed at how much I got even out of my first lesson and continue to get every time I am there. I am steadily becoming more aware of my body, my posture, my way of moving, and the way I breathe, sing, and speak as an actor. I am not straining my voice the way I used to before I started these lessons and this is helping me discover a new ease as an actor and singer, and get rid of "baggage" that I was carrying around for years.

Susanna shares her own experiences, is very patient with me, and is always so encouraging. She clearly informs me of my progress and gives me goals each week that I can work on after class.
I often come into a lesson feeling tired after a full day's work, but I always leave feeling more energetic and excited, with a new song on my lips. Susanna's energy is gentle yet powerful-- I feel restored and re-energized!
I guarantee that anyone who takes this class will enter on their own profound journey towards a more joyful artistic practice and a healthier self."

-Radhika Rao, Actor

"I have had no vocal training and was terrified at the thought of singing.

So, when Susanna was highly recommended, I sought her help to prepare for an audition...singing, no less.

In addition to her own astounding vocal talent, Susanna combined Alexander Technique principles with vocal exercises, personalized to my individual style and range.
The tools she gave me were invaluable!"

-Sandra Ellis-Troy, Actor

"As a dedicated student who has been involved with vocal study for years, Susanna's private teaching is unlike others I have received in the sense that it strategically combines training of the voice with training of the body.

Susanna's approach to the Alexander Technique is greatly beneficial in the most relaxing of ways. Above that, she fully prepared me for my college auditions with her established background in classical music. An all around exemplary artist, it is her enthusiasm and passion for music that most inspired me on a week to week basis."

-Lauren Lukow, High School Student (University of Virginia class of 2014)

AT Lessons with Susanna