Private Lessons
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I offer private lessons online and in person in Sacramento, California. I work with students ages 13 to adult, ranging from complete beginners to professional performers.
I offer singing lessons, songwriting coaching, and one-on-one consultation for music teachers and independent musicians. I am happy to help students prepare for specific recording projects, auditions, or performances. In addition to private lessons, I also offer group classes for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, and am available to lead workshops for groups of all kinds. Please read on for more info about my approach, background, rates, and areas of special interest. I look forward to hearing from you! |
I'm interested in:
"I always leave these lessons feeling kind of giddy and like I want to sing every single day. I highly recommend checking out Eli's group classes, or trying out private singing lessons. Really, I can't say enough good things." Phoenix S.
Singing Lessons
Teaching Style
My teaching style bridges my experience as a recording and touring folk/country singer-songwriter, my time as a member of award-winning classical choirs including the San Francisco Symphony Chorus and the International Orange Chorale, my 15+ years of teaching beginner-friendly community music classes for queer and trans folks and allies, and my training in Somatic Voicework - The LoVetri Method™. This voice science-informed approach to vocal pedagogy is based on deep listening, allowing me to help my students sing freely and expressively in all styles of music.
My Approach
I help my students develop and train their natural voices by learning to identify and strengthen their head (high) register and chest (low) register, and build a healthy mix of the two in the middle. This work often includes improving vocal strength, flexibility, and stamina, smoothing the transitions between registers, addressing muscle constriction to find more ease in singing, building breath support and capacity, developing a variety of vocal colors, and deepening expressive song performance.
I also work with interested students on songwriting, harmony singing, ear training, sight reading, mic technique, live performance skills, and singing while playing an instrument.
No two lessons are the same, but we will spend time at each session doing vocal exercises to warm up and train your voice, and then we'll usually look at a song. I will ask you to record each lesson and practice regularly at home by singing along with the vocal exercises on your most recent recording.
My teaching style bridges my experience as a recording and touring folk/country singer-songwriter, my time as a member of award-winning classical choirs including the San Francisco Symphony Chorus and the International Orange Chorale, my 15+ years of teaching beginner-friendly community music classes for queer and trans folks and allies, and my training in Somatic Voicework - The LoVetri Method™. This voice science-informed approach to vocal pedagogy is based on deep listening, allowing me to help my students sing freely and expressively in all styles of music.
My Approach
I help my students develop and train their natural voices by learning to identify and strengthen their head (high) register and chest (low) register, and build a healthy mix of the two in the middle. This work often includes improving vocal strength, flexibility, and stamina, smoothing the transitions between registers, addressing muscle constriction to find more ease in singing, building breath support and capacity, developing a variety of vocal colors, and deepening expressive song performance.
I also work with interested students on songwriting, harmony singing, ear training, sight reading, mic technique, live performance skills, and singing while playing an instrument.
No two lessons are the same, but we will spend time at each session doing vocal exercises to warm up and train your voice, and then we'll usually look at a song. I will ask you to record each lesson and practice regularly at home by singing along with the vocal exercises on your most recent recording.
"I have been really impressed at how, with practice and Eli's nurturance, my voice was able to grow and develop into something lovely and unique on its own. I stopped wanting to be like other singers and started focusing on being more like my best self, and that was an incredible gift from our work together." Christine H.
"I have been really impressed at how, with practice and Eli's nurturance, my voice was able to grow and develop into something lovely and unique on its own. I stopped wanting to be like other singers and started focusing on being more like my best self, and that was an incredible gift from our work together." Christine H.
Musical Styles
I teach a variety of contemporary popular styles of singing including (but not limited to) folk, country, R&B, rock, pop, soul, musical theater, jazz, gospel, and cabaret. I encourage my students to sing in multiple styles and to bring in music they're interested in singing.
Please note: Though I have experience with classical singing myself, people looking to sing primarily classical music or opera will likely find a better fit with a teacher who specializes in classical singing. You can find a list of other voice teachers who I recommend here.
Songwriters
As a singer-songwriter myself, I particular enjoy doing voice lessons with people who would like to focus on performing their own original music, whether they are experienced songwriters or just getting started.
Gender and the Voice
I am a part of transgender, queer, and social justice activist communities, and so are many of my students. I work with singers of all genders, including genderqueer and non-binary people, agender people, trans women and people on the trans feminine spectrum, and trans men and people on the trans masculine spectrum.
You can find my advice regarding trans masculine people, testosterone and singing in this blog post, and my advice for voice teachers here: Creating Gender Liberatory Singing Spaces. You might also be interested in the resources I've compiled for trans singers, including the online Singing on Testosterone Info Session I co-lead with Peter Fullerton.
I focus my work on the singing voice. If you are transgender and looking for a voice coach to work with you on your speaking voice, I highly recommend Wynde Vastine (online & El Sobrante, CA), Oneida Chi (online & San Francisco, CA), Peter Fullerton (online & Portland, OR), and Undead Voice Lab (online).
My Training
I have studied jazz singing at Berklee College of Music and classical singing at Oberlin Conservatory. I also have experience singing folk, indie rock, country, pop, soul, musical theater, classical, and contemporary a cappella music. I am a certified teacher of Somatic Voicework - The LoVetri Method™.
Somatic Voicework - The LoVetri Method™
Rooted in voice science and voice therapy, Somatic Voicework™ teaches students to use their natural voices in a healthy way, singing the types of music they like to sing. The founder, Jeanette LoVetri, has been a fixture in the voice science research community for over 30 years, and has published numerous articles and research papers about contemporary singing. There are over 500 certified teachers in the United States teaching privately and at many of the world's leading conservatories. More information about Somatic Voicework™.
I teach a variety of contemporary popular styles of singing including (but not limited to) folk, country, R&B, rock, pop, soul, musical theater, jazz, gospel, and cabaret. I encourage my students to sing in multiple styles and to bring in music they're interested in singing.
Please note: Though I have experience with classical singing myself, people looking to sing primarily classical music or opera will likely find a better fit with a teacher who specializes in classical singing. You can find a list of other voice teachers who I recommend here.
Songwriters
As a singer-songwriter myself, I particular enjoy doing voice lessons with people who would like to focus on performing their own original music, whether they are experienced songwriters or just getting started.
Gender and the Voice
I am a part of transgender, queer, and social justice activist communities, and so are many of my students. I work with singers of all genders, including genderqueer and non-binary people, agender people, trans women and people on the trans feminine spectrum, and trans men and people on the trans masculine spectrum.
You can find my advice regarding trans masculine people, testosterone and singing in this blog post, and my advice for voice teachers here: Creating Gender Liberatory Singing Spaces. You might also be interested in the resources I've compiled for trans singers, including the online Singing on Testosterone Info Session I co-lead with Peter Fullerton.
I focus my work on the singing voice. If you are transgender and looking for a voice coach to work with you on your speaking voice, I highly recommend Wynde Vastine (online & El Sobrante, CA), Oneida Chi (online & San Francisco, CA), Peter Fullerton (online & Portland, OR), and Undead Voice Lab (online).
My Training
I have studied jazz singing at Berklee College of Music and classical singing at Oberlin Conservatory. I also have experience singing folk, indie rock, country, pop, soul, musical theater, classical, and contemporary a cappella music. I am a certified teacher of Somatic Voicework - The LoVetri Method™.
Somatic Voicework - The LoVetri Method™
Rooted in voice science and voice therapy, Somatic Voicework™ teaches students to use their natural voices in a healthy way, singing the types of music they like to sing. The founder, Jeanette LoVetri, has been a fixture in the voice science research community for over 30 years, and has published numerous articles and research papers about contemporary singing. There are over 500 certified teachers in the United States teaching privately and at many of the world's leading conservatories. More information about Somatic Voicework™.
"Eli is a really gifted teacher. I am a student of multiple years and am still surprised by his intuition when it comes to working on my voice. " Anthony F.
Songwriting Coaching
When melody, lyrics, and chords combine to create a song, something magic happens. I love helping folks discover the songs that only they can write!
In private songwriting coaching I'll help you find your voice as a songwriter. Whether you're totally new to songwriting or you've been writing songs for years, I'll meet you right where you're at, and help you develop the tools you need to create deeply compelling songs. We'll look at all sides of songwriting, from lyrical considerations like imagery, point of view, rhyme scheme, and metaphor; to musical elements like crafting the chord progression and melody and shaping your song's arc.
We'll also talk about the emotional side of songwriting, addressing creative roadblocks and using exercises and prompts to explore new ways into the writing process. Along the way I'll provide constructive feedback on your work, and help you learn to perform your original music with power and confidence. If you're interested we can also discuss recording, booking shows, playing with other musicians, and other elements of sharing your music with the world.
"Eli holds safe space for messy, human existence. It was a great environment to share my vulnerable creativity, in any stage."
Consultation & Mentorship
I offer one-on-one consultation and mentorship for queer and trans musicians, teaching artists, voice teachers, choir directors, song leaders, and others who work at the intersection of music and social justice.
Maybe you have very specific questions about working with a particular student or community. Or maybe you want help learning how to run a crowdfunding campaign, teach your first group class, run a trans choir, start a band, or setup a sustainable sliding scale policy. I am here for you!
I'm a firm believer in the power of community-based artists and teachers. Though I have some formal music education, I don't have any degrees in music or teaching. I've learned so much by seeking out teachers and learning opportunities that are largely outside of the academy.
Of course, the best way to learn how to make and/or teach music is to go ahead and do it! I'm here to be a helping hand on your journey, someone to bounce ideas off of and help you reflect on what you're learning as you go. I can also tell you about my many mistakes along the way so you don't have to repeat them.
Consultation usually looks like a one-time meeting. This is a chance for you to ask questions, dream up possibilities, get support learning best practices, and/or break down the steps of a new project so you can move forward with clarity and grounding. Sometimes one conversation can really make a big difference!
Mentorship looks like meeting in an ongoing way, often once a month for a period of time, though it can be more or less often depending on your needs. I have mentored folks who are getting started as private voice teachers, launching queer choirs, shifting to becoming self-employed, and musicians who are putting together a recording project and booking their first tour. Each person's needs are unique. Whatever your situation, I am here to support you as you prepare to make your next big move.
Please Note: At this time I am only offering consultation and mentorship to folks who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. If you are a music educator looking for resources to help support your work with nonbinary and transgender people and you are not a part of the LGBTQIA+ community yourself, I recommend reaching out to my good friend Peter Fullerton for a consultation, and/or seeking out the professional development resources offered by The Voice Lab and Renée Yoxon.
The Nitty Gritty
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Teaching Hours
Tuesdays 1:30 pm - 5 pm Pacific Time Wednesdays 1:30 pm - 6:30 pm Pacific Time Thursdays 1:30 pm - 6:30 pm Pacific Time |
Online Lessons take place on Zoom. You don't need a microphone or any special gear. In-Person Lessons take place in Sacramento in the Tahoe Park area. |
COVID Safety: There are immunocompromised people in my family and community, so I ask that all in person students show proof that they have received an updated COVID vaccine since fall 2023. I run an air purifier and wear an N95 during in person lessons. Students can choose to be masked or unmasked. You're welcome to reach out to me with any questions. Find a vaccine provider near you.
Accessibility & Allergen Info
I love working with folks who are disabled and/or neurodivergent!
In person lessons take place at my teaching studio, which is up a flight of three stairs with railings on both sides. There is a sturdy chair without arms and a couch available for students if you want to sit during your lesson.
My space is completely fragrance-free, but I have some students who wear body products with fragrances. There is also a cat in the house who is not allowed in my teaching studio. If you have chemical sensitivities or a feline allergy, please let me know and I will run an air purifier prior to your lesson.
Accessibility & Allergen Info
I love working with folks who are disabled and/or neurodivergent!
In person lessons take place at my teaching studio, which is up a flight of three stairs with railings on both sides. There is a sturdy chair without arms and a couch available for students if you want to sit during your lesson.
My space is completely fragrance-free, but I have some students who wear body products with fragrances. There is also a cat in the house who is not allowed in my teaching studio. If you have chemical sensitivities or a feline allergy, please let me know and I will run an air purifier prior to your lesson.
"Taking lessons with Eli has been the best thing I've done for myself as a musician in recent years. When I started taking lessons I had years of bad habits: vocal tension, losing my voice at shows, etc. Not only did we clear these up, but I learned styles, techniques, and tones I never considered options before. My range has expanded. My voice is overall a more comfortable place to hang out. Eli is easy to communicate with and an excellent listener, able to hear where a voice is stuck and guide it towards more openness. Still wondering if he's right for you? Don't. 10 Stars." Andy M.
Rates
Lessons are one hour, and students pay on a sliding scale:
At Cost: $120 - This is the true cost of private lessons, and the rate I need most people to pay in order to cover my costs and pay myself a living wage. Consider paying this amount if doing so would be an investment, but not create hardship for your household. You might choose this rate if you are able to regularly meet your basic needs and have some expendable income, can travel every 2 - 3 years without burden, and have some debt but are able to pay it regularly.
A Little More: $140 - This is a pay-it-forward rate. The extra money sustains me in working with lower income folks who would not otherwise be able to access private lessons. It's an opportunity to take lessons yourself and also support your fellow community members in doing so too. Sweet! Please consider paying this amount if you are comfortably able to meet your basic needs, own the home you live in or rent a higher end property, have paid or pay for private education, travel recreationally, have access to financial savings and/or investments, have reliable work or do not have to work to meet your needs, have inherited wealth, and/or have increased earning privilege due to your race, gender, or education.
A Little Less: $100 - This is a discounted rate. Consider paying this amount if you have significant debt, little or no savings, and little or no access to financial support from family.
I am grateful to Alexis J. Cunningfolk of Worts and Cunning Apothecary and Hadassah Damien of Ride Free Fearless Money for inspiring my approach to sliding scale.
Lessons are one hour, and students pay on a sliding scale:
At Cost: $120 - This is the true cost of private lessons, and the rate I need most people to pay in order to cover my costs and pay myself a living wage. Consider paying this amount if doing so would be an investment, but not create hardship for your household. You might choose this rate if you are able to regularly meet your basic needs and have some expendable income, can travel every 2 - 3 years without burden, and have some debt but are able to pay it regularly.
A Little More: $140 - This is a pay-it-forward rate. The extra money sustains me in working with lower income folks who would not otherwise be able to access private lessons. It's an opportunity to take lessons yourself and also support your fellow community members in doing so too. Sweet! Please consider paying this amount if you are comfortably able to meet your basic needs, own the home you live in or rent a higher end property, have paid or pay for private education, travel recreationally, have access to financial savings and/or investments, have reliable work or do not have to work to meet your needs, have inherited wealth, and/or have increased earning privilege due to your race, gender, or education.
A Little Less: $100 - This is a discounted rate. Consider paying this amount if you have significant debt, little or no savings, and little or no access to financial support from family.
I am grateful to Alexis J. Cunningfolk of Worts and Cunning Apothecary and Hadassah Damien of Ride Free Fearless Money for inspiring my approach to sliding scale.
"Eli has truly been one of the best teachers my daughter has ever had, in any subject." Katherine H.
"Eli has truly been one of the best teachers my daughter has ever had, in any subject." Katherine H.
Becoming a Student
At your first lesson we'll get to know each other and I'll begin to design a program tailored to you and your goals.
If we find that we're a good fit to work together and you'd like to continue, we'll schedule a regular time for your lessons. Most students work with me weekly or every two weeks. Students who aren't able to commit to a regular time slot can schedule drop-in lessons one at a time as I have availability.
At your first lesson we'll get to know each other and I'll begin to design a program tailored to you and your goals.
If we find that we're a good fit to work together and you'd like to continue, we'll schedule a regular time for your lessons. Most students work with me weekly or every two weeks. Students who aren't able to commit to a regular time slot can schedule drop-in lessons one at a time as I have availability.
"Eli is a super supportive and passionate teacher and singer! I have been a professional singer/songwriter for thirteen years but had never taken an actual vocal lesson. When I got my first Off Broadway musical call back I figured it was time to step up my game. Eli helped prepare me, working with my range and providing me with warm ups to enhance my vocal endurance. I was getting feedback from people overhearing my audition piece noting the positive influence my time with Eli had on my voice. I would recommend him to beginners and advanced students alike." Adhamh R.
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Eli Conley Vocal Music Studio
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