Zoe Zdrojewski

Hello! I am a classically trained opera singer based in Baltimore, Maryland and I have been teaching voice and piano for nearly 5 years. I use my classical training as a singer to influence student led lessons that expand upon the principles of strong breath support, understanding the vocal mechanism and freedom of the voice. I use these same core principles not only to teach classical voice but contemporary and musical theatre singing as well. For piano students, I use the Faber and Faber Piano Adventures Methods books supplemented by my own scale exercises and visual aids. I continue to perform in the Baltimore area and love to share my love of music with those around me, especially new learners!

It is my belief that everyone has a voice and is able to sing. Singing may look different for various individuals, and singing goals may be on opposite ends of the spectrum, varying from gaining confidence in singing karaoke to taking the stage at the Met. As a teacher of voice, it is my job to present each student with the tools necessary to achieve their specific goals, and to provide my guidance without judgment of these goals. Art is not something that can be quantified within specific parameters for progress, and I aim to offer a sympathetic hand in guiding my students towards the right methods, practice, and technique best suited to them. I often say that being a singer is a unique experience since the human body is, in fact, the only instrument with feelings and a heartbeat. Students come from all sorts of backgrounds, and all of that life experience walks into the studio with them. It can be very easy for a singer to turn any struggles or missteps inwards and view mistakes as a reflection of them personally. It is my goal to make sure that my students are free to express their emotions as they explore their voice, and that they know that progress can always be made. Most importantly, I want my students to know that their voices are worthy, regardless of anything they may perceive as imperfect. I love when my students make mistakes, it’s what allows me to do my job. It can be an emotional journey learning to share your voice with the world, and I think it is the responsibility of the voice teacher to be a mentor throughout that experience. I believe in a student led approach to teaching. I present my basic framework for my lessons, but I think it is important to be flexible and responsive as a teacher, always meeting students where they are. If something does not work about my approach for a particular student, it is my responsibility to try a different angle. I aim to be growing continuously as a teacher, never settling on one method, but rather collecting an arsenal of tools overtime that can be employed with students of all learning styles and personal backgrounds. My background as a singer is grounded largely in classical voice, but I am also well versed as a teacher of contemporary pop music and musical theatre. I hope that this makes me a more versatile teacher who can present my students with a variety of tools to fit their specific needs.