Thursdays 4:45–6:15 pm, 10/1–12/3; No class 10/29, 11/26
| Age | Adult |
| Event Type | Class |
| Department | Vocal Performance, Vocal Technique |
| Day | Thu |
| Instructor | Sami Stevens |
| Status | inperson event |
Build power, range, and expressive depth through a focused exploration of soul singing technique. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Aretha Franklin and Donny Hathaway, this class emphasizes a healthy, sustainable approach to mix-belting, along with soulful melodic interpretation.
The class is primarily technique-based, combining group work with individual coaching each week. Students explore exercises and repertoire designed to strengthen vocal production, expand range, and develop expressive phrasing. Repertoire is selected by the instructor with input from the class.
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
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Begin developing their mix-belt register
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Use mix-belting with greater control and vocal health
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Interpret melodies with greater stylistic awareness and expressive depth
Ideal for singers of any level who want to develop a stronger, more expressive voice in a supportive and focused learning environment.
Prerequisites
No prior experience is required. Students should be prepared to engage seriously with vocal technique and commit to consistent practice and listening outside of class.
Enrollment
Limited to ensure that each singer receives personalized attention and ample opportunity to sing and receive feedback.
Thursdays 4:45–6:15 pm
10/1–12/3
No class 10/29, 11/26
Sami Stevens, $390
(in-person)
About Sami Stevens
Sami Stevens is an Oakland-based singer-songwriter whose music blends jazz, soul, folk, and indie rock influences into intimate, emotionally rich performances rooted in the tradition of classic American singer-songwriters of the 1960s and ’70s.
Her 2023 debut solo album, Morning, released on Sunnyside Records, was praised by Glide Magazine as the work of “one of the most promising songwriters to appear in the past few years.”
An active collaborator and touring musician, Stevens recently spent two years performing auxiliary keys and background vocals with Norah Jones and has also worked with artists including Brian Blade, John Scofield, Jason Moran, and John Zorn.
A graduate of the New England Conservatory and Tufts University, Stevens has performed internationally at venues including the Apollo Theater, Red Rocks, Lincoln Center, and Nippon Budokan, with her work receiving recognition from Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, DownBeat, and The New York Times.