Terri Marcantel
I cannot recommend Dr. José Miguel Santelices and Voces Academy enough, no matter if you are a beginner or a professional in your singing journey. I have been a church cantor and choir soloist for most of my adult life, but never took formal vocal lessons -- a fact that's been painfully obvious through the years as I sang alongside professional vocalists and always felt like the weakest link. (Imposter syndrome is real!) My voice would easily tire, and I am naturally quiet so I didn't project well. After finally telling my husband last year I wanted to take lessons, he found José and gifted me a vocal assessment. José's knowledge and gift for teaching is immediately obvious -- but his kindness, candidness, positivity and infectious passion for the craft is what made me want him as my coach. He makes learning fun -- he is master of meeting you where you are, applies a myriad of techniques to get where you need to be, is honest with where you need to improve, encourages and critiques with kindness, celebrates your breakthroughs and growth right along with you, and as a result lessons just fly by. I've become so fascinated not only the science of correct vocal technique, physicality and the Bel Canto method, but also how my voice and my confidence improved so quickly when these techniques are applied correctly and consistently. My next concert solo just a few months later was the best, most confident performance I've ever experienced, and I can't tell you how amazing it felt! (Afterward, a few fellow soloists expressed interest in studying with José as well!) A bonus: I love that Voces holds events throughout the year to bring fellow students together and build a community of singers. I attended a karaoke night as well as participated in a recital at a local senior living community. It's been so fun getting to meet them all, enjoy their talents and hear their stories. I look forward to learning more with José in 2026!
