What do you call a vocal coach whose job involves accompanying you while you sing? There are many names associated with the position, but the most common names are Susan Young, Esther Gonthier, Phyllis Ferwerda, Sharolyn Kimmorley, and Mary Lou Reiter. Here’s a look at the many types of coaches and their respective qualifications.
Susan Young
Known for her passion for teaching, Susan Young has been teaching for over 30 years. She specializes in both classical and Broadway styles. Many of her students have gone on to perform in major high school and college musicals, receiving nominations for Best Actress awards and Gene Kelly Awards. Moreover, they go on to major in music at colleges and universities. Here are some of her clients:
Esther Gonthier
Born in Levis, Quebec, Esther Gonthier is recognized as one of Canada’s most talented pianists. She studied at the Universite Laval and the Université de Montréal and honed her vocal coaching technique in France with Janine Reiss. Today, she maintains an active career as a vocal coach and accompanist. Listed below are some of her accomplishments:
Phyllis Ferwerda
Phyllis Ferwerda has been a professional pianist, accompanist, and vocal coach for over 25 years. She is a former professor at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, where she taught vocale music. Ferwerda also teaches a yoga elective to musicians and has given masterclasses in the Netherlands, Belgium, and abroad.
Sharolyn Kimmorley
Sharolyn Kimmorley is one of Australia’s leading vocal coaches and accompanists. She has accompanied world-renowned artists including Dame Joan Sutherland, Hakan Haggard, Michael Lewis, Dennis O’Neill, and Barbara Bonney. Her extensive experience as an accompanist, vocal coach, and conductor has been the foundation for her successful career.
Peter Bartczak
Kimberley-Ann Bartczak is a sought-after pianist, vocal coach, and conductor. A graduate of the University of Toronto, she has coached the Mississauga Festival Choir and worked as a music director for l’Ensemble Vocal Chant-O-Vent. A vocal coach at the Vancouver Academy of Music, she has worked with some of Canada’s top opera singers.