Dana Anderson

Teaching Philosophy: When the student is engaged (loves what they are doing) learning is inevitable and progress happens. I teach in an affirmative style, using positive reinforcement. Technique is important (exercises are each designed with a specific purpose), but the goal is to develop musical awareness and the ability to play (or sing) in whichever style the student chooses. I enjoy teaching lessons in the studio because this allows me to concentrate on the particular strengths and needs of each student, ensuring that they make progress according to their individual ability.

Biographical Information: As a mezzo-soprano, I have sung professionally on the concert and operatic stage: (San Francisco Opera, Berkeley Opera, Livermore Opera, and Sacramento Opera, Pacific Callegium, Volti, and American Guild of Organists.) An experienced recording studio artist, I am a member of the Screen Actor’s Guild, and sing on film scores and trailers, radio and television commercials, at Skywalker Sound in Marin, and Fantasy Studios in Berkeley. Recently, I sang on the trailer for Pirates of the Caribbean IV. I have taught voice and choral singing at the East Bay Waldorf School and voice and piano at The Saklan School in Moraga. I hold a piano and vocal studio at The Studios at Piedmont Piano Co. and at my private studio in Oakland. I earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master’s degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Dana Anderson is a member of NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing).