Today we’d like to introduce you to D. Keith Stiver.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started teaching 45 years ago. At first I went to my students’ homes, but later transitioned to studio space.
Since I did that, the Stiver Voice Studio has been in operation, in one form or other, for 40 years, first in Youngstown, the in the greater Cleveland area.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Things have not always been smooth sailing. There are always boom times, and times when things slack off.
COVID was a hard hit. Nearly a third of my students couldn’t or wouldn’t make the transition to online lessons.
I have to admit to being pleasantly surprised at how successful online lessons have been. There was no tech learning curve for me; it was a straight line up. And the technology wasn’t very good at the onset. It’s gotten much better.
Since COVID restrictions were lifted, most of the students I lost have returned, and I’ve gain many additional students.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
In addition to my teaching, I am also a published composer, director, and music director for theatre and churches.
I try to listen to my students’ goals, and strive to help them move in those directions. I am very comfortable teaching various styles of music.
The core of my teaching of vocal technique is in an organic approach to the voice. I encourage my students to develop an internal sense of the voice, and to embrace how the instrument naturally works. Then we add style, whether it’s classical or any of the multitude of musical theatre and pop styles.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
That’s a loaded question. There is always an element of luck in pursuing any career. But I think you have to have the skills to take advantage of the good luck and survive/recover from the bad luck.
Pricing:
- Half-hour lessons are $35
- 45 minute lessons are $45
- Hour lessons are $50
- Most of my students pay by the month. But, I can make other arrangements.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stivervoicestudio.com
