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Terri Marcantelvia Google

about 2 months ago

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!

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D Wvia Google

6 months ago

Can't say enough good things about Jose. It's been a few decades since I had formal classical training and needed assessment as to my vocal health and help with my breathing and technique. After just one session, there's a dramatic improvement and looking forward to see how far I can go under Jose's guidance.

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Adrian Valdesvia Google

7 months ago

For most of my life, I believed there were only two kinds of people, you’re either born a singer or you’re not, and I was definitely in the “not” category. In my late 30s, after decades of letting that belief hold me back, I finally thought, “The heck with it let’s give this a shot!” I had zero singing experience, and zero music theory knowledge. From my very first assessment to where I am now, Jose has created an environment that’s equal parts encouraging, challenging, and downright fun. I was worried I’d be wasting his time as a total beginner, but he immediately reassured me that anyone can learn to sing. And over the last five months, he hasn’t just taught me what my voice sounds like he’s taught me what my voice feels like. Jose has a gift for meeting students exactly where they are. He blends technical skill with an infectious enthusiasm that makes learning feel like an adventure, not a chore. This journey has brought me joy and excitement I didn’t know singing could offer, and I’ll forever cherish it. If you’re thinking about sharpening your skills, or finally taking the leap into the world of singing, Jose has the perfect prescription for your voice… and yes, he’s literally a Doctor of Musical Arts. 🎵💊

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Freddy Martinezvia Google

8 months ago

I have been taking classes with Dr. Jose Miguel for several months now and it truly has been magical. I’m not someone that grew up with singing classes or any bit of confidence in it. But it is something I’ve always loved and had a passion for. I am someone riddled with trauma that fogs my art. Dr. Jose Miguel has not only sat with me and helped me navigate those traumas but he has also assisted me in letting my true voice shine through so that I can understand a new truth through tailored technical training and discipline. He is the Real Deal. I have grown so much, and I am building a confidence in saying that I never thought I would have. That confidence has poured over into other parts of my life and other arts and passions that I have that I didn’t expect. I’m so excited for what the future holds. I feel like I’m barely scratching the surface. Thank you, Dr. Jose Miguel!

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Alexandra Espinozavia Google

10 months ago

I've been taking lessons with Jose Miguel Santelices for a few months now, and the improvement in my voice has been amazing. He is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and supportive, tailoring each session to my vocal range and goals. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, Jose Miguel provides clear techniques and great feedback. I always leave feeling more confident and inspired. Highly recommend to anyone looking to improve their singing!