Inspiration

I’ve been a voice teacher and singing coach for over 20 years, and there’s a pattern I’ve noticed—one that science now helps explain. Here are just a few things I’ve heard from my students over the years: “I had to choose between spending money on therapy or voice lessons, and I chose voice lessons. Totally […]

At Donais Studios and RISE Children’s Choir, we believe something very simple — and very profound:   Your voice is powerful. 💪   Your voice is deeply connected to who you are.    It’s not just something you use—it’s a reflection of your identity, your emotions, and your energy.    Whether you’re singing, speaking, laughing,

What’s in a Name? The Story Behind RISE Children’s Choir When I first dreamed of creating a children’s choir, I knew it needed a name that was simple yet powerful. One syllable. Strong. Uplifting. A word that carried energy, hope, and movement. That word was RISE. RISE Children’s Choir was born during one of the

As we approach concert season at Donais Studios—with the RISE Children’s Chorus concert on Saturday, May 31 and the Donais Studios Spring Concert on Saturday, June 14—the air is filled with anticipation. It’s concert season for most musicians!  Many of our students are also preparing for their Royal Conservatory of Music voice and piano exams.

Have you ever noticed how music can be a mirror—or a mask? It’s one of the most curious things we observe as voice teachers: the way singers of different ages choose their songs.  It’s not random. It’s not just about style or genre. It’s about how they see themselves in the music—(or how they’d like

At Donais Studios, we often remind our students that artistry is a lifelong journey. Whether you’re just beginning or deep into your professional career, it’s not just what you do in the practice room that shapes you—it’s how you care for your mind, body, and spirit as an artist.   Today I thought I would

The scariest sound in the studio these days isn’t a missed note or a wrong chord. It’s the sound of RUSHING. Feet tapping too fast. Fingers flying over keys before the brain catches up. Eager hands closing their books the moment they’ve reached the final measure—even if they’ve barely played it. It’s not just music.

Music and the arts offer our children an extraordinary gift—one that stretches far beyond talent, trophies, or technique. In today’s world of instant gratification, same-day delivery, and short attention spans, the deep value of an artistic education can be easily overlooked. But here at Donais Studios, we see it every single day: the slow and

You’ve heard the phrase “No pain, no gain,” right?Well, let me be clear—that does not apply to singing. Ever. Singing should feel good. Yes, building vocal freedom and ease takes effort and sometimes a little emotional discomfort (like pushing beyond your comfort zone). But physical pain? That’s never part of the process. If a song

Whenever someone finds out I’m a music educator, the first question they ask is: “What type of music do you listen to?” And for whatever reason, it catches me off guard. Every. Single. Time. So weird, right? I usually give the generic answer: “Oh, I listen to everything! I love ALL music.” Or I’ll say,