Masterclasses
Coaching for performance is a particular pleasure for me. I offer Vocal Masterclasses in or near Cambridge on selected weekend afternoons during term time.
The classes are designed to train singers in presentation, stage deportment, dramatic understanding and the interpretation of songs and arias in a supportive environment. A professional pianist accompanies and performers are charged a moderate tuition fee. A great deal can also be learned from watching and listening to others and observers are welcome.
Each two-hour session gives four singers the opportunity to perform a piece of their choice to colleagues and observers. I then work closely with each singer on specific aspects of presentation. Singers may present operatic arias, art songs, oratorio, musical theatre pieces or traditional songs. There are also opportunities for suitable singers to perform in ensembles or short operatic scenes.
All music must be well prepared in advance and performed from memory. An exception may be made for oratorio, if the music is very well known and use of the score is minimal.
“Her coaching is hugely positive and the classes are a wonderfully supportive environment.”
Who I teach
My vocal masterclasses are suitable for:
Students preparing for auditions, recitals and exams;
Singers studying operatic arias, scenes or ensembles;
Individuals who already have performing experience and want to increase their confidence on stage;
Those who have taken singing lessons and would like to try solo performance.
More information can be found on my Vocal Masterclasses Cambridge page on Facebook.
Testimonies
“These classes have been invaluable for me whilst I’ve been preparing for conservatoire auditions where the panel is looking for a good performer and not just a good singer. Katharina manages not only to give nuanced and expert advice on performance but also craft a supportive atmosphere in which like-minded singers/listeners can give friendly feedback.”
Mezzo-contralto student (22)
“I am the pianist for some of Katharina’s performance classes and experiencing the way she works is inspirational. She is able to identify whatever will unlock the singer’s connection with the aria or song they are singing and watching the performer then inhabit the music and establish a powerful connection with the audience is a joy. Katharina also teaches the singers to collaborate in a meaningful way with with the pianist and so working with her is rewarding and always a privilege.”
Marion Caldwell, professional pianist
“I have participated in three of Katharina’s Performance Masterclasses during the past year. Her coaching is hugely positive and the classes are a wonderfully supportive environment. I always leave filled with a sense of achievement, with confidence and with new knowledge to bring to my singing, performing and musicality. Katharina’s ability to adjust her coaching to match each individual means that I learn not just from my own work but from the performance of every other participant.”
Baritone student (42)
“Having completed my Bachelors and Masters of Music in Canada, when I moved to Cambridge I found it challenging to find a musical home within my community. The performance classes felt like Cinderella’s glass slipper - the perfect fit. Katharina is a fabulously supportive mentor, and she meets you and your voice where you are. I have enjoyed both performing in and attending the performance classes, as they have been an opportunity to work on some of my aspirational repertoire in a safe, encouraging, and challenging environment. The sessions I’ve spent in these classes have been some of the hardest work I’ve done on my voice and performance skills in recent memory, and yet someof the most satisfying. I am beyond grateful to have found in Katharina a supportive mentor, and a demanding coach. Not only has the instruction made me more confident and comfortable in my voice as it is here and now, but I’ve also found a warm and welcoming singing community within the classes. I cannot recommend these classes enough - regardless of your level of experience, Katharina will help you to find the next step in your growth and progress.”
Mezzo-soprano student (32)
“Through performing in and observing these Masterclasses my solo performance has been utterly transformed; with a supportive environment and expert advice in characterisation and stylistic interpretation of pieces I have gained confidence and found true joy in performing.”
Dramatic soprano student (33)