mel o'd
soprano
TEACHING & COACHING
Melissa has more than 20 years experience teaching and coaching pupils of all ages and abilities. She approaches the teaching process in fun and inventive ways and helps pupils to explore their voices, whilst developing a solid grounding in vocal technique.
She created her innovative EASY WHISPER METHOD as a way to quickly enable her students to feel and practise precise vocal placement and how to use the breath effectively. This bespoke method gives her pupils a tool that they can use anywhere and one that can make a huge difference in sound with near immediate effect.
Melissa trained in classical technique at the Birmingham conservatoire and has learnt with various teachers throughout her career. Alongside her classical training, she developed and adapted her technique to suit singing more popular repertoire. Melissa has a full understanding of the voice as an instrument and she has been able to utilise her classical training to avoid straining or pushing her voice. This has shaped her approach to teaching and coaching and she strives to promote the importance of using correct vocal technique when singing. With this understanding, pupils are able to adapt their technique to suit the style of singing, whether in a classical or popular vein.
As well as teaching singing, Melissa has an NVQ qualification in Workshop Delivery. She trained at the Rep Theatre in Birmingham, where she devised and delivered drama based workshops for schools in the area. She has developed and run many music based workshops for both children and adults as well as working with choirs and ensembles such as Rock Choir and Secret Singers. She works with St Albans based OVO theatre company as a consultant vocal coach.
"When I first came to Mel I had really lost confidence in my singing, I was afraid to sing out and had been taught some bad techniques.
Since learning with Mel she has helped me regain my confidence, fix the break in my range, improve pitch & tone, strengthen my voice, improve breathing technique, eliminate strain ,and really improve my emotion and performance of a song.
I never feel criticised when I make mistakes. Mel provides a warm, friendly environment and is always encouraging and supportive. I really look forward to my singing lessons and continue learning every week. Of course you have to put the work in too! MEL GETS RESULTS."
Moya Allen
"I've been going to Mel for singing lessons for around 3 years now, and I still find the lessons fun and useful. Mel has a talent for adapting to the individual student and can keep the the lessons interesting. All the techniques she teaches ensure I don't strain or damage my vocals, and are taught in fun exercises. I've improved a lot since starting Mel's classes and so has my confidence. Thanks Mel!"
Melodi