Studio Teachers
Hey y’all! We have these great instructors who are part of our Studio Teachers tier. Of course, they all have masters degrees in vocal performance or vocal pedagogy and are totally over-qualified to teach at any other Midtown Manhattan studio. All of our teachers specialize in non-classical styles, but classical singing lessons are also available. Here are our awesome Studio Teachers:
Jae Carelli
Jae (they/them) has been with our studio for 3 years and is an amazing teacher who specializes in gender-affirming voice, pop, rock, and theatre styles. They are incredibly approachable, great with beginners, and lead with empathy in every single lesson. Jae is available for sessions in NYC on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Jae’s credentials:
- Advanced Training: Completing a Masters in Vocal Pedagogy from the Voice Center at the University of Wales, with a thesis focused on gender-affirming voice.
- Gender-Affirming Voice Expert: Mentored directly by Dr. Felix Graham and certified as a level 3 verified trans voice specialist at our studio.
- Active Solo & Choral Performer: Performs a solo cabaret show in NYC and abroad, released a 2025 album called ‘American Doll’, and sings regularly with Dr. Felix’s gender-diverse choir TRANScend.
- Empathy-First Approach: Known for their guiding philosophy that “teaching is first about empathy,” creating a welcoming, safe space for singers of all levels.
- Excellent with liturgical music
Collin Ellsbury
Collin (he/him) is a calm, grounded, and highly skilled singing teacher specializing in technique for beginning through pro. He brings a unique “super-power” to his lessons: he’s a vocology expert with skills to help with vocal injury recovery, and an inclusive, low-pressure environment that is perfect for those struggling with anxiety.
Collin’s credentials:
- Advanced Certifications: Holds two advanced certificates—one in vocal pedagogy and another in vocology (the science and psychology of the voice).
- Injury & Anxiety Specialist: Offers a non-judgmental environment backed by a deep understanding of vocal health and the emotional connection to the voice.
- Audition Prep & Piano Skills: Patiently guides beginners through the learning stages all the way to professional audition prep, complete with the piano skills to support you.
- Working Musical Theatre Performer: A working “bari-tenor” with extensive credits across NYC and the Northeast, including the Kimmel Center and the Provincetown Playhouse.