Background, professional training and performance history
Allison holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Western Oregon University and was named their Outstanding Vocalist in 2002. She also trained with Professor Faye Robinson at the University of Arizona and received a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance. Allison has won a number of awards from the National Association of Teachers of Singing, and has been chosen to participate in Ann Baltz’s 4-week program of OperaWorks. She is a versatile performer who performs and teaches a variety of genres including classical, jazz, musical theatre and popular. Allison has performed the operatic roles of Lauretta in Puccini's Gianni Schicchi and Mother in Menotti's Amahl and the Night Visitors. In addition, she has performed jazz in venues such as the Reno Hilton.
Allison completed 3 years as an Opera Teaching Artist in an outreach program called Opening Minds through the Arts (OMA), sponsored by the Tucson Unified School District. Collaborating with pianist Aryo Wicaksono, she co-composed and recorded three original pieces for Jaguar Luna, a multi-arts play that premiered in 2008 in Columbus OH, Washington DC, and New York City.
Artist statement and teaching philosophy
“An encouraging teacher, I am dedicated to inspiring my students to reach their full potential. My objective is to improve their basic knowledge of technique, musicianship and theory (aural skills, note-reading, and rhythm), musical sensitivity and expression, performance styles and recital etiquette, and music history. I teach by using visual, kinesthetic, and verbal examples. Lessons are structured on the student’s specific needs and goals. All lessons will begin by warming up and doing exercises. During the rest of the lesson, the student will work on one or two specific selections. The student’s lesson time represents a small portion of their study and is to serve as a weekly guide for their daily practice. I expect the student to apply the techniques and ideas covered during their lesson time on a daily basis. I look forward to sharing my love of music with my students, and enjoy working with students age 5 through 99!"
Instruments & classes taught
Allison teaches beginning through advanced voice, and beginning piano.