Sam's Thoughts

Singing is not just for kids!
--Liz Jackson Hearns

Sam Holloway is one of The Voice Lab's longest students, and an absolute gem of a person. He took the stage in our first Coll'Opera production as Sarastro in TVL's very special version of Mozart's The Magic Flute, he's part of our troupe of regular performers, and also rocks out in ColLABorate band camp! Sam embodies everything we're about here: He's kind and compassionate with himself while he learns, he's excited by challenge and success, and he makes a point to talk with and learn about everyone in our Voice Lab community. 

If you spend any time with Sam, you'll see how openly and joyfully he talks about his experiences as a singer. He shared some thoughts with us and we'd like to share them with you! Take it away, Sam! Tell us your story! 

I first remember walking past The Voice Lab in the early autumn of 2016, when my spouse and I were looking for an extracurricular, somewhat physical activity for our fifth-grade child to begin. We saw the signs in the window and thought it worth looking up. Soon after, I agreed to sign up for an introductory lesson with Alexandra just to check out the business and see if it would be appropriate for my daughter. It really wasn’t for me; I’d done voice-over work in the past, but I’d never thought of myself as a singer. 

By the end of that first thirty minutes, I was hooked. I had always considered singing an art for which one either possessed the talent or not. I immediately learned that the art of singing is a skill that requires scientific knowledge of one’s body along with a great deal of work, education, and practice. In the nearly three years that I’ve been studying with Alexandra, I’ve learned about my relationship with my voice— both physical and psychological. I’ve learned that growth and improvement are possible if I’m willing to learn and willing to put in the time and effort. 

More than that, I’ve learned to have fun practicing, rehearsing, and performing. The strides I’ve made as an individual singer are personally rewarding, and it’s been a phenomenal experience collaborating with other students and teachers on performances like Coll’Opera. Finally, my lessons and the special classes and events have become something that I now prioritize as I budget for time and money. It’s all an investment in myself, yes, but it’s also an investment in the expanding community of The Voice Lab, a community of which I’m glad to be a part.

We are so glad you're here!