SVS: Specializing in both Classical and Musical Theatre voice
My Approach to Voice
My goal is to give singers a stable, efficient, and well-developed vocal technique that can support them for the long term. I believe vocal freedom begins with understanding how the instrument works, developing strong technical coordination, and learning how to solve problems independently rather than relying on one specific sound or stylistic trick.
My teaching is highly individualized. I work with both classical and musical theatre singers, and my background allows me to approach each style fluently and on its own terms. The technical needs of a classical singer are not always the same as those of a contemporary musical theatre performer, and I believe each student deserves training that reflects their repertoire, goals, and individual instrument.
Lessons incorporate vocal technique, anatomy and function, alignment, breath coordination, registration, resonance, diction, musicianship, and repertoire. Just as importantly, students learn how to apply technique to actual performance — making clear dramatic choices, communicating text, and developing the confidence to use their voice freely in front of an audience.
Beyond the Lesson
One of the things I value most about teaching is watching students grow beyond the studio. I make a real effort to attend my students’ performances, auditions, productions, and other milestones whenever possible because I believe training should connect directly to the work they are doing in the world.
Having staged more than 100 full productions, I am also able to help singers understand the larger demands of being a singing actor — from audition preparation and song interpretation to rehearsal technique, storytelling, professionalism, and the practical realities of performance.
Public performance is an essential part of that development. Through recitals, studio classes, mock auditions, juries, and other performance opportunities, students are given regular chances to test their technique, take risks, and grow as artists in front of others.
- Joseph W. Santaniello
Santaniello Vocal Studios
Individual Training. Serious Artistry. A Community That Grows With You.
SVS offers personalized vocal training in classical voice and musical theatre for young singers, college students, adults, and professional performers.
Norwalk, CT I Pelham, NY I Virtual
CHOOSE YOUR STUDIO
SVS Norwalk: The original SVS location, with nearly 15 years of teaching, mentoring, performances, and student success.
SVS Pelham: The new Westchester location, offering the SVS approach with a growing faculty and expanded lesson options.
CHECK OUT OUR LESSONS PAGE FOR MORE INFO!
Recital Performance
Recitals are an integral part of the development of young singers. There is at least one if not more opportunities within a year where students perform in front of their peers, friends, and family. Recitals are often viewed as a vehicle for students to test out new repertoire and prepare themselves for auditions and other performances, so students tend to sing pieces outside of their comfort zone to foster growth.
Studio classes & Master classes
Studio classes offer masterclass-style training to all studio members. We employ "audition style" studio classes, where the students come ready to perform their repertoire for the studio and receive critiques focusing on performance skills in addition to vocal technique. This is also a time where the student is able to work with a collaborative pianist/coach on a one-on-one basis. Read more...
“Our goal as singers is to make an audience laugh and cry in the same evening.”