Welcome to Songbird Studio!
Welcome to Songbird Studio! My name is Agnes Hendrie, and I am a California licensed teacher offering voice and piano lessons in a modern, playful and creative way. It is my joy and honor to guide you on your musical journey, wherever you are!
Voice
Develop your voice, beginner to advanced
Find freedom and flexibility in your singing, no matter your age or stage in life
Discover and experience your voice in a new way (like a songbird!)
Develop musicianship skills and learn theory
Piano
Learn to play the piano, beginner to intermediate
Find natural expression and playfulness with your music
Create and sustain a lifelong friendship with the piano, no matter your age or stage in life
Develop musicianship skills and learn theory
Community
Share your music in a friendly, relaxed environment with like-minded musicians
Find joy in learning music together with others in small groups
Develop ease (and maybe even joy) in performance
Meet Agnes
As a lifelong musician, my goal is to continue to grow and develop my own musicianship, as well as share the joy of musical self expression with others, through teaching and performing…
Frequently Asked Questions
What are voice lessons like?
Voice lessons include a few different parts: We warm up the body and voice, use some targeted activities to develop parts of the voice, and then work on repertoire together. A wide variety of genres can be included, such as: classical, folk, musical theater, sacred, spirituals, and or opera. Depending on the student’s musical knowledge, time is also spent on learning notes, rhythm, theory and musicality. Offered online and in person.
How long are lessons? How much are they?
Lessons can be 30, 45, or 60 minutes in length, depending on the student’s level. Tuition is paid monthly; contact Agnes for current rates.
What ages do you teach?
Agnes teaches students of all ages, from age 5 onwards: her oldest student to date was 89! Anyone, at any age, is welcome, and can enjoy music lessons, tailored to exactly where they are.
Why is your studio called Songbird Studio?
Neuroscientists have learned that when it comes to singing, humans and songbirds are alike! Here is an article with all the details. Also, see the Resources section for learning how to sing like a songbird!
Can you guide me through exams?
Yes! Students can complete theory, vocal and/or piano exams with my guidance, through the Royal Conservatory of Music. Exams are a great way to focus learning, practice performing, and receive constructive feedback.
What are piano lessons like?
Piano lessons include warmups, technical exercises, theory, artistry and repertoire. A wide variety of genres can be included such as classical, folk, contemporary, jazz, and pop/rock. Offered online and in person.
How do online lessons work?
Online lessons take place on Zoom. Students play accompaniments from a separate device (primarily in voice, but also in beginner/intermediate piano) so the Zoom lesson covers the same material as an in-person lesson. More information about how to set up for online lessons is provided to each student.
What if I need to cancel my lesson?
With 24-hours notice, students are eligible to sign up for a small group makeup lesson, which are offered monthly. New students will receive a copy of the current policy document outlining all details.
What is vocology?
Vocology is an interdisciplinary field focusing on the study of the voice, and in particular, voice habilitation. Habilitation means to prepare the voice for specific demands (like singing!). Vocology can include knowledge from vocal pedagogy (teaching and learning about the human voice in singing), laryngology (study and care of larynx – voice box), vocal performing arts, speech-language pathology (communication disorders) and many other fields. As a vocal teacher, I use vocology to help students find their ideal voice when singing, in a way that feels good, and is most healthy (ie vocal longevity).
Testimonials
“Agnes has left a strong impression on me through her intellectual curiosity, rapid development as a singer, and unwavering commitment to teaching and learning. She is a multidisciplinary educator whose breadth of musical understanding informs her vocal technique. Agnes is highly organized and deeply committed to teaching.”
Dr. Heidi Moss-Erickson (Assistant Professor of Voice, University of the Pacific)
“I never thought that at the age of 48, I’d learn how to play a musical instrument…. I was amazed that I could learn to play piano! Agnes is a wonderful teacher and keeps it fun!”
Debbie, student
“Our daughter absolutely loves her voice lessons with Agnes! Agnes has a wonderful ability to tailor her approach, knowing exactly when to slow down or speed up based on my daughter’s learning pace. We are also impressed with her structured process and clear communication. Agnes makes even complex musical concepts easy for an elementary schooler to grasp, which is truly impressive.”
Luke, parent
Community
Within Songbird Studio’s culture of kindness and care, students are able to learn and grow together, sharing their music in various ways…
Resources
Within Songbird Studio’s culture of kindness and care, students are able to learn and grow together, sharing their music in various ways…
“As a new singer, I especially appreciate that Agnes tailored her approach to exactly what I needed, helping me progress quickly. I was surprised that I not only sang my first solo at a recital, but also that I had so much fun performing!”
Murray
Adult vocal student
