I have observed Mitchell McGinnis teach for the past several years, and I feel that he is equipped with a toolbox of skills that inspire his students with self-confidence, musical and technical precision, and mentorship that lasts beyond the voice studio. He embraces individuality in his students and explores each student’s authentic voice and artistry. Combining his knowledge in vocal pedagogy and his experienced background in various genres of music, Mitchell teaches an effective, healthy vocal technique that promotes longevity in singing balanced with expression and artistry. Most importantly, Mitchell truly cares about his students, supporting them fully in their musical endeavors and working with them to reach their full potential as artists.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Mitchell as his voice teacher and friend for the past two years. We met when he participated in the Voice Pedagogy Institute at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, right after he began working on his Master of Voice Pedagogy degree. During the Institute, Mitchell asked insightful questions and was interested in learning as much about the voice as he could. While studying at Westminster, Mitchell joined my voice studio and participated in our weekly studio class where Broadway music directors, actors, and casting directors came in to do regular master classes. During question-and-answer sessions, Mitchell always prioritized taking away information that would serve his students back in Mississippi. He also worked hard on his own voice, focusing on the connection between body work and vocal freedom. He always managed to be serious and lighthearted in his work and was a pleasure to teach. Based on his work at Westminster, I am confident that Mitchell’s teaching is grounded in the most recent information in voice science, pedagogy, and vocal health. His students are in great hands!
- Jonathan Price
Priority Adjunct Assistant Professor of Voice, Westminster College of the Arts at Rider University
Voice Faculty, Marymount Manhattan College
Assistant Director, Westminster Choir College Voice Pedagogy Institute
Vocal Director, Performers Career Center in Manhattan
“Mitchell as a student was always open to constructive criticism and truly wanted to better himself. He puts 110% effort into EVERYTHING he does, no matter how impossible or daunting the task may seem. He is well acquainted with risk and is willing to meet a challenge head on. This willingness to constantly step out of the “comfort zone” provides opportunity for constant growth. Students- you WANT a teacher like Mitchell who continues to pursue learning and growth. A teacher who puts himself in YOUR shoes truly invests in you and in the ever-evolving field of voice.”
- Dr. Kristen Gunn, D.M.A Florida State University, opera singer and voice teacher
“Mitchell is a gifted musician and clinician. He has been a part of the musical training of my children for over 5 years and has been a huge part of their success both on and off stage. He has worked with them individually and in a group setting on solo performance, small group harmonies and large group performance. He is truly invested in the success of his students; not just with vocal performance but in all of their successes in life. My children have flourished under his guidance, winning multiple awards for their endeavors. Mitchell truly measures his success by those of his students. ”
“I can tell a huge difference in my daughter’s vocal ability and confidence after working with Mitchell over the past few months. He has given her techniques to help with tone and breath control. Mitchell does such a great job relating to his students. My daughter has told me several times that he just “understands my voice, Mom.” Highly recommend!“
Mitchell was able to bring my breath control up a whole new level. I started out pushing and straining, but he was able to teach me how to connect and properly sing. Ever since my lessons with him, my range, breath control, and runs have been getting better everyday. ”
“I highly recommend Mitchell McGinnis as a vocal coach for all levels of vocal talent. His ability to teach vocal precision is matched with his unique gift of bringing to life a fearless and confident approach to notes. My kids were blessed to have the opportunity to work with him. As a musician for 35 years, I can say that what Mitchell does is very rare.”