Recommendations
To whom it may concern,
I met Susan Gudgeon about 10 years ago after a string of bad music teachers. She was recommended to me by an accompanist from the RCM who realized that I needed a better instructor. Susan teaches with a focus on strengthening the whole singer.
Her instruction technique ensures that singers have an understanding of their instrument and its functions. Her pedagogue encourages a singer to develop safely and extensively, with their own unique sound using the student’s strengths. I can vividly recall my first lessons with her. We sang not a note, but instead, I learned about proper breathing techniques and vocal anatomy. I recently began studies at the Manhattan School of Music with Shirley Close, in my lessons with her she tested me on that same knowledge that Susan Gudgeon gave me all those years ago.
Debussy L’ame est vaporée Nov 20 2017
She also encourages students to develop the psychology of music. Developing confidence, strengthening empathy, and the singer’s ability to act and understand emotionally are all vital to her curriculum. She is a great cheerleader for all her students and truly cares for them all. I remember after my most stressful audition for undergraduate programs, calling her at nearly midnight and talking with her for nearly an hour about what had happened. She encourages students to have dreams, and reach for them with goal setting and hard work.
Lastly, Susan works with singers on developing as performers. She encourages all her students to perform in an annual recital and conquer their fears as students of performance. She has guest accompanists come for the recitals to help teach students about working collaboratively as musicians. At the recitals, she makes sure that all students treat each other with respect and encouragement as colleagues and fellow music makers. I am still connected with some of the other students who were in Susan’s studio at the same time as I was.
In conclusion, Susan Gudgeon is a fantastic educator that any institution could be very proud to count among their teachers. I include postscript links to a piece I sang only 3 weeks after leaving her instruction to attend university. The same account also houses more recent recordings.
Susan heard my potential as a child and encouraged me to go as far as I can and reach for greatness, and for that I am grateful.
Regards,
Corinne Deiong BMus.
P.S.