Hello! My name is Colin Kase, and I’m a classical vocalist based in Philadelphia. Ever since I was young, I’ve found the voice the most viable and dynamic form of musical expression. Singing is something that everyone can do, and I believe that it unites us all in an unspoken way. I became interested in teaching while attending Temple University for vocal performance. I find that passing knowledge onto a student allows for the teacher to fully appreciate the beauty of music. I would describe my teaching style as technique based, focusing on developing the voice in the healthiest way for the individual student. I also like to focus on teaching ways to interpret the music rather than just reading notes on a page. I am most comfortable teaching Classical/Opera, but I am also well versed in musical theater and pop. I am also able to adapt to differing levels of musical knowledge. I hope to work with you soon!

When did you begin singing, and why?

I have always loved to sing, but the first time I sang in an organized fashion started when I joined my church’s child choir. After that, I joined my school’s choir and appeared in the musicals. I discovered that I loved performing, and when I heard my first opera, I fell in love instantly. In college, I found a particular joy in teaching mock lessons for my vocal pedagogy class.

What other instruments do you play, and what is your experience with them?

I’ve played guitar since I was 13 after falling in love with the Beatles. I would be comfortable teaching beginner guitar.

What are your personal goals as a musician?

I hope to one day sing on a national opera stage, and I hope to help students reach whatever their personal musical goals.

Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked?  Something you’ll remember forever?

While studying at Temple, I would have a lot of trouble accessing my top range on “ah” vowel sounds. My teacher, Dr. Lawrence Indik, introduced me to making the shape of whatever vowel I was singing in my onset breath. This allows the vocal tract to be in the right spot when the note is produced.

What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?

Never put yourself in a corner. Explore different musical styles that may seem out of reach. You may just find they fit you best.

What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument

Finding confidence in my musical ability, even when I make mistakes. No one is perfect, and nobody is a master without practice.

What is your biggest musical achievement?

When I got to perform in the opera that made me fall in love with opera in the first place, Elixir of Love.

Favorite thing about teaching?

Seeing a musical concept click in a student’s mind, and seeing them apply it practically in their lessons and performances.

What is a piece of advice you would like to share with anyone learning music?

Anyone can learn to sing. No matter what your experience level, you can find the music inside of you.

Personal music projects:

Come see me perform at the Victor Café, just one block for the Philly Music Lessons South Philly Location.