Tuition

Singing Tuition with Sophie

Singing is good for us on so many levels. It lifts our mood, builds confidence, helps us express our feelings, and brings balance to body and mind. With over 25 years of experience teaching students of all ages and abilities, I remain deeply passionate about helping others develop their vocal potential.

Finding Your True Voice

We all have a unique sound and use our voices in different ways. A singing lesson is not just about vocal mechanics; it is often about peeling away the stresses, strains, and hidden emotions of the day. The throat is an area where many of us hold tension. When we connect with our true voice, these tensions release and fall away, allowing us to discover new ways of using our instrument.

I am committed to creating a safe, secure, and nurturing environment where students of all abilities feel supported.

My Approach to Teaching

  • Healthy Breath & Alignment: Good airflow is essential for all musical genres. We begin with focused breathing and posture exercises to connect with the lower body, strengthen core muscles, and improve breath control without strain.

  • Whole-Body Musicianship: Our body is our instrument. Incorporating physical movement helps absorb and express the rhythm, character and emotion of a song on a deeper level. If we can ‘feel’ the music in our bodies, it will inevitably be heard in our voices.

  • Versatile Repertoire: I teach a broad range of musical styles, including Classical, Opera, Jazz, Musical Theatre, and Classic & Contemporary Pop. I ensure students sing a balanced variety of repertoire that they genuinely enjoy.

  • Performance & Exam Preparation: For students working towards auditions, school assessments, or grades, lessons incorporate performance skills, presentation, sight-singing, and aural training to build comprehensive musicianship.

Professional Background

Alongside my private practice, I am an active singing teacher and accompanist within prominent London schools and community projects. I hold a BMus (Hons) from Trinity Laban and am a former Choral Scholar of St Martin-in-the-Fields. My current and past engagements include:

  • Current Positions: Singing Teacher and Accompanist at St James Senior Girls’ School and Fidelis College (formerly The Laurels School), preparing pupils for ABRSM (Classical & Musical Theatre), Trinity Rock & Pop, GCSE, and A-Level assessments.

 

  • Community & Outreach: Practitioner for Pegasus Opera Company leading community choirs, and former Choir Master for The Lansdowne Club staff choir in Mayfair.

 

  • Institutional Experience: Previous long-term teaching roles at prestigious independent schools and educational centres, including Harrodian School, Bede’s (formerly St Bede’s) Prep & Senior Schools, and Music House for Children.
 
Get in touch
 
Whether you are picking up singing for the first time, preparing for an upcoming audition or exam, or looking to rediscover your voice, I would love to hear from you.
 
Please get in touch to discuss your goals, check current availability, or enquire about booking an introductory lesson.
 
Email: walbysophie@hotmail.com
Phone: 07786 492942
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