Jon Morris
BSc (hons), MA Voice Pedagogy (distinction)
Qualified Vocal Health First Aider


Biography:
My singing tuition is based on over 20 years of studying singing, teaching and related disciplines. Since realising my love for singing in my teens, I started having singing and music theory lessons. Singing started out as a hobby. Originally, I aimed for a career in Physics and found myself drawn towards music, gaining a BSc Music Technology and more recently achieving Master’s degree in Voice Pedagogy (with distinction). In addition to my degree studies, I hold ABRSM Grade 8 Theory of Music, ABRSM Grade 8 Singing (Distinction), and I am a qualified Vocal Health First Aider.
My understanding of vocal technique accelerated when I started to learning from:
-David Jones (http://www.voiceteacher.com/)
and his associate teachers
-Ann De Renais (http://www.annderenais.com/)
-Fiona Dobie (http://www.fionadobie.com/)
Through Master Classes, David Jones shares technique and teachings from his studies of the Swedish-Italian singing techniques, much of which I use to inform my teaching. To learn more about the Swedish-Italian singing technique, read this article on David Jones’ website: (http://www.voiceteacher.com/history.html)
In 2003 I received mentoring from my first singing teacher and covered her teaching practice in her absence. Teaching became my career in 2007; since then I have built my practice teaching singing and music theory from my private studio and in local secondary schools.
Having performed many times a year since my late teens, I use these experiences to enrich my teaching. My performances regularly include Opera, Musical Theatre and Oratorio. I have also enjoyed singing with contemporary commercial music style groups.
Continuing professional development has been the backbone of my knowledge and practice. My teaching skills have been further developed through school-based training and a Level 4 Teaching qualification obtained in 2009. I also continually research singing and related fields such as Alexander Technique and Mindfulness to develop and enrich my teaching. During my Masters degree, I expanded my knowledge of singing and teaching by researching many areas, including:
-Efficient learning (including neuro-science and well-being)
-Vocal health (speaking voice and singing voice connections)
-Mentoring and coaching
-Many styles of music, including pop, musical theatre, belting, and classical techniques
Learning is wonderful for developing a sense of purpose and fulfilment; I look forward to being a part of your self-care and personal development.