Voice & Piano Lessons
VOICE LESSONS: Lessons are generally 45 minutes in length. (Hour lessons are available if preferred). Lessons include technique and repertoire work. We tailor the lessons to the particular needs of our students. We deal with all aspects of audition preparation from repertoire to acting coaching. Singing is a very personal and vulnerable process; therefore, we create a nurturing and safe environment in which our students are free to take risks.
Technique: Gillian is a versatile pedagogue. Not only was she classically trained as an opera singer, she understands how to teach healthy belting for musical theatre, pop, rock, and r&b. She masterfully teaches you how your vocal instrument works and how to get it to work for you consistently through a systematic approach.
Vocal Coaching: Claire believes that songs need to be learned correctly and concretely. Once the songs are rhythmically comfortable and organic, Claire aids the student to approach the song from a different angle altogether and experiment. A talented voice instructor as well, Claire brings her incredible ear and training to her sessions.
Acting Coaching: Gillian brings her rich experience as a performer as well as a teacher to this aspect of the lesson. She encourages the student to make bold, personal character choices and to develop a new level of emotional awareness. This work greatly enriches the communication of each song.
VOCAL TECHNIQUE ONLY LESSONS: Tight on cash or time and want to totally concentrate on vocal technique? Gillian can easily hone in on weaknesses and get you ready for anything you aspire to. She will build your instrument and educate you so that you are prepared to understand your own voice in a wonderful way.
PIANO LESSONS: Claire is wonderfully suited for any level of piano student. Equally comfortable with beginners and advanced students, Claire enjoys structuring lessons to each individual’s goals, challenges, and strengths.
COLLABORATIVE PIANO COACHING: Highly skilled accompanists are in high demand for choruses, chamber ensembles, instrumentalists, and vocalists. With over 20 years of experience in accompanying and teaching, Claire Bigley’s instruction focuses on four essential elements of collaborative playing as she guides her students in developing their skill and confidence.
Listening – How can you anticipate the soloist?
Awareness- Are you aware of what the soloist is doing or feeling during a performance?
Adaptation- How can you adapt your playing to better support the soloist?
Enhancement- What can you adjust to musically improve your performance?
Claire Bigley has the unique ability to nurture and inspire talent. Contact her at 773.718.6494 or visit the “Contact Us” page to set up an appointment.
They’re Singin’ Praises
“I have no fancy-schmancy words to describe Gillian and Claire. They just ROCK!” – Erin Walker
“Gillian and Claire have made SUCH a difference not only in my vocal abilities but also in my confidence. Working with them has been a real treat–their spunk, drive and passion for what they do continues to inspire me to work as hard as I can. They know exactly how I have needed to be pushed in order to achieve my goals and I truly feel that they have a wonderful, individualized plan for each of their students so that they can become the best singers that they can be. I HAVE recommended them to many friends and will continue to rave about them!” – Samantha Heindl