Teaching Philosophy: "My teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that every student possesses unique vocal qualities and potential, which can be developed through tailored instruction, disciplined practice, and a deep understanding of both technique and artistry.
Individualized Approach
Each voice is unique, and my approach to teaching is highly individualized. I strive to understand the specific strengths, challenges, and goals of each student. By doing so, I can provide personalized guidance that helps them achieve their full potential.
Technical Foundation
A strong technical foundation is essential for any singer. I emphasize the importance of proper breath support, vocal placement, and resonance. I aim to help students build a reliable technique that allows them to sing with freedom, power, and expression across their entire range.
Musicality and Expression While technique is crucial, it is the ability to convey emotion and connect with the audience that truly defines a great performer. I encourage students to delve into the emotional content of the music and to develop their interpretative skills. This involves exploring character, context, and the dramatic arc of each piece.
Repertoire Selection Choosing the right repertoire is key to a singer’s development. I assist students in selecting pieces that are not only appropriate for their voice type and current skill level but also challenge them and foster growth. This includes a mix of arias, art songs, and ensemble pieces from various periods and styles.
Performance Practice
Performance is a crucial aspect of a singer’s education. I provide opportunities for students to perform regularly in studio classes, recitals, and other venues. This helps them gain confidence and experience in front of an audience, as well as valuable feedback on their performances.
Continuous Learning
The journey of a singer is one of continuous learning and self-improvement. I encourage my students to be curious, to explore new music, and to seek out learning opportunities beyond the studio. This includes attending live performances, listening to recordings, and studying the work of great singers.
Supportive Environment
Learning to sing can be both rewarding and challenging. I strive to create a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and grow as artists. I believe that a positive and nurturing atmosphere is essential for creative development.
In summary, my goal as a teacher is to guide my students in developing a robust technique, a deep understanding of their own voices, and the ability to communicate compellingly through music. I am dedicated to helping them become not only skilled singers but also expressive and thoughtful artists."
Biography: Chao Ma, tenor, is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Voice Performance at University of Hartford. He was awarded the Hartt Talent Awards, the Richard and Rose Ananian Kalajian Scholarship, and the Frederick and Virginia Schorr Scholarship during his studies. He has participated in numerous main stage performances, collaborating with opera companies such as the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras, Boston Opera Collaborative, Opera America, MassOpera, Hartford Opera Theater, Opera Connecticut, Opera Theater of Connecticut, and Vox Opera, etc.
Mr. Ma has also excelled in international competitions, winning first place in the France “Vocal City” International Vocal Competition, first place in the American International Vocal Competition, and the gold medal in the “World Classical Music Award” in the UK.
Chao began teaching in 2012 and joined Note-worthy Experiences in December 2024, where he teaches voice lessons.
Individualized Approach
Each voice is unique, and my approach to teaching is highly individualized. I strive to understand the specific strengths, challenges, and goals of each student. By doing so, I can provide personalized guidance that helps them achieve their full potential.
Technical Foundation
A strong technical foundation is essential for any singer. I emphasize the importance of proper breath support, vocal placement, and resonance. I aim to help students build a reliable technique that allows them to sing with freedom, power, and expression across their entire range.
Musicality and Expression While technique is crucial, it is the ability to convey emotion and connect with the audience that truly defines a great performer. I encourage students to delve into the emotional content of the music and to develop their interpretative skills. This involves exploring character, context, and the dramatic arc of each piece.
Repertoire Selection Choosing the right repertoire is key to a singer’s development. I assist students in selecting pieces that are not only appropriate for their voice type and current skill level but also challenge them and foster growth. This includes a mix of arias, art songs, and ensemble pieces from various periods and styles.
Performance Practice
Performance is a crucial aspect of a singer’s education. I provide opportunities for students to perform regularly in studio classes, recitals, and other venues. This helps them gain confidence and experience in front of an audience, as well as valuable feedback on their performances.
Continuous Learning
The journey of a singer is one of continuous learning and self-improvement. I encourage my students to be curious, to explore new music, and to seek out learning opportunities beyond the studio. This includes attending live performances, listening to recordings, and studying the work of great singers.
Supportive Environment
Learning to sing can be both rewarding and challenging. I strive to create a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and grow as artists. I believe that a positive and nurturing atmosphere is essential for creative development.
In summary, my goal as a teacher is to guide my students in developing a robust technique, a deep understanding of their own voices, and the ability to communicate compellingly through music. I am dedicated to helping them become not only skilled singers but also expressive and thoughtful artists."
Biography: Chao Ma, tenor, is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Voice Performance at University of Hartford. He was awarded the Hartt Talent Awards, the Richard and Rose Ananian Kalajian Scholarship, and the Frederick and Virginia Schorr Scholarship during his studies. He has participated in numerous main stage performances, collaborating with opera companies such as the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras, Boston Opera Collaborative, Opera America, MassOpera, Hartford Opera Theater, Opera Connecticut, Opera Theater of Connecticut, and Vox Opera, etc.
Mr. Ma has also excelled in international competitions, winning first place in the France “Vocal City” International Vocal Competition, first place in the American International Vocal Competition, and the gold medal in the “World Classical Music Award” in the UK.
Chao began teaching in 2012 and joined Note-worthy Experiences in December 2024, where he teaches voice lessons.
