Upper Floor Studio

Home of Teaching Artists: Sheila Townsend & Osher Fein

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you accepting new students?

Upper Floor Studio is accepting new students again!


How much do lessons cost?

We offer one to one lessons at $125 for a 55 minute session. This cost includes the lesson and any preparation required for accompaniment tracks (cutting, transposing, etc). We do also ask that students pay for music selections that are not already in our extensive music library.

My associate teacher Osher offers lessons for $70 for a 55 minute session.

We also offer need-based scholarships so please reach out!


Do you offer private or group lessons?

Most lessons are private, however we do offer group lessons for small ensembles. If you are in a group who would like to schedule time to work on a piece or performance we would love to see you!


When can I expect to see improvement? 

Most students see improvement a few months into the process. Learning to sing correctly often means retraining muscles and relearning how to stand and breathe. This process may take some time, especially if you've never worked with a voice teacher before. Be patient. You will see progress if you practice and attend lessons regularly!

Our policy is to require an initial commitment of 8 weekly lessons.* Learning to sing correctly often means retraining muscles and learning how to stand and breathe. This process may take some time, especially if you've never worked with a voice teacher before. Sometimes students can get discouraged during this process which is why we ask you to stick it out for at least 8 lessons. You will see progress if you practice and attend lessons regularly!

*Occasionally there are exceptions made for professional students seeking short term assistance with a specific project or audition. 


How much should I practice?

We require students to practice 30 minutes at least 4 times per week. Most people equate the word practice with a boring, repetitious activity, but practicing can be fun! Take 30 minutes during the day and focus on improvement in a particular area.  Ideally this is a dedicated time where you won't be interrupted or distracted. The main thing to remember is to focus on one thing at a time; don't attempt to do everything correctly every time you practice.  Work on one thing at a time and before you know it, you'll sound wonderful.


What do I need to bring to lessons?

Coming to lessons prepared helps speed along the learning process and allows us focus on learning instead of spending lesson time with preparatory work.  We recommend that each student bring the following:   

Check out our Materials For Success Page: HERE


What if I need to cancel an appointment?

Lessons cancelled less than 24 hours prior to the scheduled lesson are counted as a regular lesson and the regular rate will be charged. Regardless of your reason: illness, work, school, murder hornets, pandemic ate your homework ... You must cancel 24 hours in advance or you will be charged for the lesson.

If the teacher is notified 24+ hours prior to the scheduled lesson, the student can opt to skip the lesson or find a time to reschedule.

Late arrival will result in an abbreviated lesson. 


As a parent, what can I do to help?

Parents play a large role in a child's development as a performer as you are around your child throughout the week when we're not.  Here are some tips to help your aspiring performers grow in a healthy way.  

Bring up concerns with us 

Talking to us about concerns allows your child to focus on having fun practicing rather then worrying about making mistakes.  We do want to address any concerns you might have, so please don't hesitate to talk to us.

Allow mistakes to happen

It's perfectly natural to want to correct mistakes.  Please understand that while errors might not make for the best music to listen to, they are crucial for the learning process and overall growth.  Just stay positive and encouraging, and before you know it you'll have the best soundtrack you could ever ask for.