FAQs
Who seeks out accent and communication coaching?
You may seek out accent and communication coaching if English is your second language and you're already proficient. Maybe you feel your accent is holding you back at work or in everyday life. Or maybe people focus more on how you're saying something than on what you're saying.
What are accent and communication coaching sessions like?
Sessions are one-on-one, fifty minutes weekly. Each week we focus on a single target, and you'll get plenty of practice with specific feedback from me. You'll leave with home practice materials to work on until we meet again.
What we work on together depends a lot on your native language. It might be specific sounds (like the "th" sound or the American "r"), stress patterns (where the emphasis falls within a word or a sentence), or intonation (the melody of a word or a sentence). It may also be a voice or communication habit that will help you speak with more confidence.
Will I erase my accent?
No, and that is not the goal. You'll still sound like you. Based on your specific goals, we'll work together to modify the aspects of your speech that get in the way of effective communication, so you can focus on what you're saying instead of worrying about being understood. As you become more confident communicating in English, your own background, knowledge, and personality will come through with colleagues and in your community.
When will I start to notice a difference in my speech?
It varies from person to person, but many people begin to notice changes in certain sounds or patterns after about four sessions. By around twelve sessions, the new patterns tend to feel more automatic and start carrying over into your everyday speech.
Do I get a free consultation call?
Yes. Whether you're interested in accent and communication coaching or singing lessons, a free 15-minute consultation call is the place to start. We'll talk about what you'd like to work on and whether it's a good fit. If you're ready to begin, we'll discuss how to reach your goals.
How much does accent and communication coaching cost?
The first consultation call is free. After that, you can pay as you go, one session at a time, or choose a session package and save. There's also a 50-minute analysis session. See the full details on the pricing section of the Accent and Communication Coaching page.
How much do singing lessons cost?
The first consultation call is free. See the full details on the pricing section of the Singing Lessons page.
Do I need any singing experience to start?
No. All experience levels are welcome. Whether you're just starting out or you already have some experience and want to develop further, I would love to work with you.
What kind of singing do you teach?
I focus on popular music singing, including pop, rock, R&B, soul, country, folk, and jazz-influenced pop. I don't teach classical singing or traditional jazz.
What ages do you teach singing?
I teach kids (starting around age 8), teens, and adults. Kids' lessons are 30 minutes long; teen and adult lessons are 45 minutes long.
Do you offer any discounts on accent and communication coaching?
Yes. I'm offering an introductory rate on accent and communication coaching for a limited number of clients. See the introductory rate for details.
Where are sessions held?
Accent and communication coaching is online, from anywhere. Singing lessons take place in your home, within about 15 minutes of El Cerrito, CA.
What is your cancellation policy?
Plans change, and I understand that. If you need to cancel or reschedule a session, please let me know at least 24 hours ahead and we'll find another time that works.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed sessions, are charged in full. Your session time is reserved just for you, and last-minute changes make it hard to offer that time to someone else.