From Beginner to Professional (and Everything in Between)

Whether you’ve never sung a note or you’re a pro brushing up for a Broadway audition, I can help you find your voice and get you performance-ready! As a vocal music instructor and acting coach for nearly three decades, I’ve taught vocal technique to all ages in my private studios (NYC and DC). I’ve also worked in university, high school, and grade school settings. From the American University (DC) to TADA! (NYC), I’ve served as vocal director for choral and musical theatre productions, courses, and programs from Off-Broadway to academic settings–training beginners, and professionals alike.

Mateo P. – Appearing in La Boheme, The Washington National Opera

Vocal Coaching

As a SAG-AFTRA veteran of stage and screen acting, I teach professionals just breaking into the business the ins and outs of auditioning, and also help seasoned pros with perfecting audition technique and scene work. Formerly represented by ICM agency in NYC, I offer personal insight in navigating the landscape of the working, professional actor.

My students, kids and adults alike, regularly appear on Broadway and in theatrical performances locally and nationally, including the following productions and stages:

  • The Lion King on Broadway (Coach to Young Simba)
  • Matilda on Broadway (Coach to Miss Honey)
  • Dora, the Explorer National Tour
  • La Boheme, Washington National Opera
  • Annie, National Tour
  • Disney Theatrical Group
  • Ford’s Theatre (DC)
  • Shakespeare Theatre Company (DC)
  • Arena Stage (DC)
  • John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (DC)
  • Imagination Stage (DC)
  • Center Stage (Baltimore)

Drama Coaching

As a drama instructor and director of theatre, I coach monologue and scene work, focusing on character analysis and development, as well as listening and responding to dialogue in a scene.

I’ve performed Off-Broadway, in feature film, commercials, documentaries, and network TV. My experience in  these different areas allows me to most effectively assist my students in script analysis and preparation.

“I highly recommend Deborah to any beginner or professional vocalist. Her knowledge and coaching style is superb. Her personality is delightful. Her appreciation and fondness for vocalists and dedication to the craft is evident.” –Tony Gudell, Professional Actor

Aurora Dainer, soprano – Carnegie Hall debut, November 2023

College Audition Prep

College auditions can be stressful for both student and parent, but this is an area of expertise for me, and I LOVE this stage in a student’s life! Whether your focus is on vocal music, drama, or music theatre programs, I’ll provide support with song and monologue selection, in-depth vocal instruction, and college audition tricks and tips. I also guide  coach you through  preparation of repertoire for the supplemental arts performance recordings needed in your college application! Recording technique and studio coaching, also provided on request.

My students have been accepted into music and drama programs at revered institutions including:

  • Yale University
  • Harvard University
  • Princeton University
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Northwestern University
  • NYU Tisch School
  • Oberlin Conservatory
  • The New School
  • American Academy of Dramatic Arts
  • RADA  and LAMDA London
  • North Carolina School for the Arts
  • UCLA
  • University of Chicago
  • Tanglewood
  • Interlochen
  • American University
  • Carnegie Mellon
  • Catholic University
  • Columbia
  • Elon
  • Emory
  • Harvard
  • Juilliard
  • New School
  • North Carolina School for the Arts
  • Northwestern
  • NYU Tisch School of the Arts
  • Oberlin
  • Princeton
  • Yale Drama
  • Washington University

Voice coaching benefits everyone!

An Emphasis on Vocal Health

A longtime member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing, I teach classical, musical theatre, jazz, rock, and pop singing techniques to students of all ages and experience levels. An active performer myself, I value the importance of vocal health and well-being. A lifetime of healthy singing is my goal, for every singer I work with!

Virtual Option

Though my current studio is in the DC Metro area, I also offer virtual coaching as an option for students, anywhere in the world. Whether you’re a high school student, an adult returning to singing after a hiatus, or a seasoned professional preparing for an audition/role, virtual coaching offers convenience while adapting to your busy schedule!