Michele Simon

About

Michele Simon is a vocal coach specializing in Balkan vocal technique with over thirty years of professional experience. She has been steeped in complex odd-metered Balkan dance rhythms through singing with Kitka Women's Vocal Ensemble and performing with folk dance bands including Anoush, Brass Menažeri, Helladelics, and Zabava. Michele's unique teaching approach integrates Balkan vocal styles with American voices, using innovative exercises and imagery to explore a student's natural voice and then develop technique for safely creating the bright forward sound characteristic throughout the Balkans. Her work is rooted in universal vocal fundamentals: anatomy, breath, individual vocal range, performance ease, and safe-singing practice. Michele teaches the specifics of Balkan singing including placement of resonance, close harmony, ornaments, pronunciation, non-western scales, and odd-metered rhythms. Her technique is also applicable to other singing styles such as belting, rock and roll, and bluegrass. She teaches private students, workshops, and has been a staple instructor at Mendocino Balkan Camp for almost 20 years.

Education & Qualifications

30+ years of professional vocal training and performance in Balkan and world music traditions; Extensive training in Balkan vocal technique and folk dance traditions

Teaching Styles