David Ruffin

About

David Ruffin is a vocalist, dancer, actor, and community leader based in Montpelier, Vermont, who serves the greater Burlington area with holistic, somatic voice instruction. He earned his BM in Vocal Performance and BA in Drama from Northwestern University's School of Music, followed by an M.Div. from Harvard Divinity School. David's professional performance career includes Broadway productions such as the national tour of Grease and West Side Story. His teaching employs Roy Hart Center methodology, trained under Ethelyn Friend, along with vocal improvisation techniques, Voice Movement Therapy principles, and classical voice and musical theater foundations. David's approach emphasizes experiential, body-centered exploration and movement and somatics integration, helping students access their full spectrum of potential sound beyond conventional ranges. His philosophy centers on authentic expression over technical perfection, encouraging students to connect voice to self-expression and personal healing. After years serving in Unitarian Universalist ministry, David returned to music during COVID-19 and now offers voice lessons, community singing gatherings, and workshops throughout Vermont.

Education & Qualifications

BM in Vocal Performance and BA in Drama from Northwestern University. M.Div. from Harvard Divinity School. Trained under Ethelyn Friend, Sherrill Milnes, Trish McCaffrey, and Rhiannon. Voice Movement Therapy and somatic studies training.

Teaching Styles