Clare Rachel Greener - York, North Yorkshire

Clare Rachel Greener is a classical singer based in Clifton, York. Rachel has extensive experience performing operas, musical theatre, oratorios, and solo repertoire. Recent engagements include John Rutter's Magnificat in the historic Howden Minster, and the title role in Jorvik GSC's production of Princess Ida in the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York.

Rachel has recently been awarded her DipLCM diploma in Classical Singing, and has won trophies in many local music festivals, including York, Harrogate and Rothwell.

Rachel began singing at the age of seven, beginning in St Margaret's Church, Buxted, East Sussex. Aged 11, Rachel joined the acclaimed choir of St Dunstan's Parish Church, Mayfield, under Kenneth Pont, recording several services for the BBC. Whilst at St Leonards-Mayfield School, Rachel toured France as a soprano soloist singing in Neufchâtel-en-Bray, Rouen Cathedral and Notre-Dame, Paris. Having become Head Chorister of Schola Cantorum 1 at 17, she sang Brahms' Requiem under the baton of Sir David Willcocks.

Rachel moved to North Yorkshire in 2002, where she has sung in several choirs including Selby Abbey; she now sings with the choir of Howden Minster. Rachel continues to develop her solo career and was recently awarded her DipLCM, upper level, in Classical Singing Performance.

Rachel gives individual singing tuition in her home studio, and also offers lessons in your own home. She is classically-trained, and uses this as the basis for teaching students the essence of vocal technique. This then allows pupils to sing a wide range of repertoire that suits them, as each pupil has their own interests and preferred styles of music. She teaches all ages and abilities, so whether you want your child to learn to sing, or you wish to take up singing during retirement, it is never too late to improve your voice.

Rachel enters pupils for exams in all styles, three times a year, and has a 100% pass rate. Taking music exams is a great way to build confidence at all ages, and serves as an aid to learning and progression. However, these remain entirely optional.

Classical Singing and Music Theory exams are taken with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), and are regarded as the gold standard in classical music exams. These take place in York, although candidates can be entered in examination centres closer to them (for example, Scarborough, Harrogate or Hull).

Exams in Musical Theatre and Popular Music Vocals are offered through the London College of Music (LCM), and are held in Pocklington.

Rachel has full CRB disclosure and public liability insurance.

Teaching Equipment: Upright piano, metronome, music stand, lyric sheets/handouts, stereo system with speakers, plus iPod docking station/iPod for backing tracks, sheet music.

Rachel's singing lessons include thorough warm-ups and advice/demonstrations on technique, tailored according to individual's needs. She also offers half-hour lessons (£15), which are popular with younger children.

 Testimonials

"Thank you for singing at Crayke Church at our wedding. It really made the ceremony personal and made a very special atmosphere. Charlotte and Richard."

"Just wanted to say a big big thank you for attending our wedding on Saturday. Your voice is amazing and you made our day complete and extremely special. You made it very magical, thank you very, very much." Joanne and Damian Halmshaw.

"Really enjoyed the lesson today - you are one bella signorita with the voice of an angel." Andy Kostek

"Joseph was amazing, Flynn did great, so thanks for all your help!" Joanna Burgess.

"Rachel sang two pieces beautifully at our wedding, one we requested and one she selected herself. It made the service extra-special for us and many guests commented on Rachel's stunning performance of Panis Angelicus, which filled the church as we signed the register." Helen and Nick Lay

"Brilliant singing, perfect voice". Chris Raeburn

 Session Fee: £25 per hour in her home studio