Private Instruction: Voice, Piano, Music Theory, Performance Skills
In addition to opera and musical theater coaching, I offer 1-hour, in-home lessons for highly motivated, exceptionally promising musicians, ages five to adult.
“What is this Feeling?” from Wicked with Caitlin Coyner
Voice (classical and contemporary styles)
My students practice fundamental techniques of breath management, healthy phonation, tone placement, and vocal self-care. Through exercises and widely varied lesson repertoire, we explore musical style, language/diction, and the meanings behind the music… all wrapped in a spirit of adventure. Based on interest and vocal characteristics, my singers perform repertoire ranging from Baroque opera arias and French art song favorites to recent Broadway hits and the latest pop singles.
Recent students have performed principal roles in school/local musicals and earned acceptance to the Children’s Chorus of Greater Dallas and national-level musical theater kids’ programs.
Here's what students have to say:
Dr. Emily Hagen always demonstrates patience, kindness and enthusiasm, and shows a genuine interest in her students’ success as well as a true love of teaching and helping others. Emily is an exceptional person and educator with a great depth of knowledge about her subject matter, and I recommend her highly." -Parent of a talented teenage singer
piano
Whether they are just beginning to explore the piano or preparing their college entrance auditions, my students experience the best in technical traditions combined with new approaches to practice informed by advances in the neuroscience of learning. We focus on the “why” behind technical study by discovering the hidden meanings of scales in Mozart’s sonatas and the cultural associations of dance sounds in Chopin’s music. Students’ personal interests are welcome in our lessons, and I find ways to incorporate their favorite sounds as learning tools in a balanced curriculum that includes classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary styles.
Recent students have earned top scholarships and admittance to a college music program and a nationally prestigious summer arts program, as well as the pianist position in a highly-competitive high school jazz band.
Here’s what students have to say:
“Ms. Emily gives me choices so that I can pick what interests me the most. She helps when I need it but lets me try to think and figure it out myself first. She lets me try different styles of music. When she teaches, she is always happy, and explains things very well.” -Clara, 10
“Ms. Emily is an awesome teacher. She's really patient, funny, and nice. She is the best piano teacher I could have. When she teaches singing she is also really patient. Emily works hard at her job, and is the best!!!” -Violet, 10
Gig with Lorenzo Payan
REcitals and concerts
In addition to their school and private performances, my students participate in studio recitals and concerts roughly four times per year. In preparation for auditions and performances, we practice acting, stage presence, and personalized techniques for managing pre-performance anxiety. Recitals (rotating between students’ homes) and public performances (usually at local food-and-live-music venues) develop students’ confidence and provide a supportive community of other outstanding young musicians. This solidarity is critical to maintaining their dedication to music study during the busy middle and high school years!
Here's what students have to say:
"We feel very lucky to have Emily in our music lives! We appreciate her flexibility and your ability to adapt her teaching style. She is also an excellent communicator and always punctual. Most importantly, she a fantastic role model." -Parent of two wonderful young musicians
"Emily is always encouraging and patient and brings new exciting challenges for Alex. Her enthusiasm and professionalism are key elements in a qualified musician and teacher. Choosing the right teacher for Alex was crucial in keeping her engaged. Emily has a way of creating ideas and opportunities to stretch Alex’s talents without her even knowing it!" -Parent of a strong young singer/pianist