Voice
Raina Welch
She/Her/Hers
M.M Candidate in Voice Performance, Temple University
B.A Applied Music, Long Island University
Classical, Opera, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Pop
I am a classically trained vocalist with an extensive background in vocal arts and operatic studies. I attended Long Island University, Brooklyn for a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Music and Temple University for a Master of Music in Voice Performance. Aside from my formal education, my personal interests are more geared toward contemporary genres including blues, jazz, soul, funk, disco, and hip-hop.
I’ve been teaching voice privately since 2018. As a teacher, my priority is to build vocal skills and confident musicianship, to strengthen music theory knowledge, to instill proper breathing technique, and to reduce strain while preventing injury. I am adamant that classical singing technique serves as a solid foundation regardless of the direction that a singer may want to take, especially when it comes to exploring one’s capabilities and maintaining vocal health! Moreover, my philosophy is that one’s instrument is best learned independently of style, leaving it up to the vocalist to apply what’s been learned to their own sense of artistic expression.
I believe that my versatility as a performer enables me to make teaching music a fun, approachable experience no matter what interests my students may have. In tandem with customizing lessons according to individual goals and preferences, it brings me great joy to lead my students toward developing their sense of autonomy. Furthermore, my students’ experience levels range from raw beginner to professional performer. I’ve prepared students for auditions, recitals, televised competitions and other productions, and actively strive to support students in realizing their potential as a musician.
When did you begin singing, and why?
My earliest memory of singing might be as a four-year-old, performing Disney songs for the trees in my backyard. I like to think that it’s because I wanted to imitate my father, who had a deep passion for music that he couldn’t pursue. He was always humming around the house or singing along with the radio!
What other instruments do you play, and what is your experience with them?
I’m fascinated by piano music, and I’m currently studying privately.
What are your personal goals as a musician?
My priority is to be an ever-growing student of music.
Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked? Something you’ll remember forever?
I spent a lot of time in my gap between undergrad and grad school at jazz venues all over New York City. I distinctly recall gaining a deeper understanding of improvisation as I spent night after night studying solos, both vocal and instrumental, in real time. It taught me how to listen closely, broadened my musical vernacular, and allowed me to get more creative with my own attempts at showcasing melodic and rhythmic variations alike.
What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?
Sing in your own voice.
What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument
As a vocalist, switching modes to think like a chordal instrumentalist can be tough. I think that my greatest challenge is reading more than one line accurately, which is fun to achieve as it makes me a better musician and stronger vocalist in the end.
What is your biggest musical achievement?
Honestly, becoming a musician is my greatest musical achievement. I do not come from a musical family, and pursued my education entirely on my own without any direction or guidance. I’m very proud of the knowledge that I’ve gained over the years, and I’m excited each day to learn something new.
Favorite thing about teaching?
I love sharing the “ah-ha!” moments with my students, when I can see a musical concept start to feel more attainable and less mysterious for them. It brings me great joy to support them through the tough moments and nurture their confidence when they make it over a personal hurdle.
What is a piece of advice you would like to share with anyone learning music?
Go at your own pace. You are your only competition.Personal music projects:
There are two music collectives of which I am a recurring member. I’ve continuously appeared in classical recitals and benefit concerts with the Lyric Artist of New York since 2018. I also co-produced and performed a virtual concert with El Can Collective in 2021, showcasing a diverse array of ballads, showtunes, and pop songs in English and Spanish.