Formal Education:

Studied Shakespeare at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, contemporary theater in New York at the Herbert Berghof Studio, studied “How to Audition” with Michael Shurtleff, and holds a degree from the University of Minnesota in Theater.

Statement of philosophy

Acting is a joyful expression of emotions and thought. Whether the actor is a beginner or experienced, I help develop the skills (and professionalism) needed to take on the challenge of an acting role. I specialize in acting for the stage and have worked with students of all ages. My teaching style is gentle, supportive, fun and encouraging. Students are guided to make continuous improvements, to communicate more clearly, and to challenge themselves more deeply with each lesson. I use the training I received in London and New York, combined with experience I’ve gained from directing and acting in more than 100 plays.

Experience:

Acted in New York, London, Minnesota and regional theaters, summer stock companies. Founded  “The Loose Connection,” a comedy improv group that performed throughout Manhattan, on television soaps and in commercials. Worked at CBS News, in production, and directed and acted in many community theater productions. Served as a Pinellas County High School Adjudicator for One Acts and Monologues.

Formal Education:

Bachelor of Music, Music Education, College of Music, Russia
Master of Music, Music Education, Rostov Conservatory, Russia

Statement of philosophy:

Working with students through their strengths and weaknesses to develop the discipline and dedication needed to succeed.  Identifying student characteristics, working with the student to develop musical potential, artistic skills, and self-awareness while building love for the instrument

Experience:

Violin instructor for St. Petersburg College, FL; Taught at Music Academy for Children in Brooklyn, New York and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida; Chamber musician in various recitals; Former member of Symphony Orchestra, Russia;  Active in the state and local community, e.g. grand opening of Clearwater Library and St. Petersburg College Library

Formal Education:

Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, honorary alumni
Continued studies in Italy and New York City,
Italian studies at Columbia University

Award / Accolades:

Rockefeller Foundation Award for studies abroad;  First American Opera Auditions winner- debut in Milano, Italy; Radio Executives Club Award for “the most outstanding young talent on radio”; Who’s Who of American Women; Personalities of America for Contribution to Operatic Music, YWCA award for Outstanding Leadership in the Arts, Encore Award from the City of St. Petersburg for Best Classical Performance of the Year.

Statement of philosophy:

To pass on all that I have learned through a lifetime of experiences in the arts, teaching with honesty and caring. Special effort is given to train and promote area talent.

Experience:

Several performances at Carnegie Hall with the New York Philharmonic National and international concert & opera tours; performed her first opera at eighteen years of age ; presented her own radio program in NYC; appeared on NBC Television Opera; special performance at the Metropolitan Opera to benefit Boy’s Town of Italy; Professor of Voice,  Manhattan School of Music; Director Florida Lyric Opera; finalist in Madame Butterfly International Competition, toured Japan in Concert