Personalized Online Coaching with French Conservatory alum, Grand-Prize winner, and Sought-after Performing Artist Krissan Manikan - Tan

The session focused on music theory, including harmony, melody, rhythm, keyboard layout, intervals, key signatures, major scales, scale degrees, and chord construction (major, minor, diminished, and augmented). The student practiced constructing major scales, identifying scale degrees, and building major, minor, diminished, and augmented chords. The student was assigned homework to practice these concepts, and the possibility of combining music theory with singing techniques in future lessons was discussed.

Ma. Krissan Tan led a vocal lesson with Trace, delving into various singing techniques. The instruction focused on resonance, exploring different vocal registers—specifically chest, head, and falsetto—and emphasizing core engagement. Trace practiced arpeggios and performed two songs, receiving constructive feedback on both his interpretation and vocal delivery. For his next steps, Ma. Krissan Tan challenged Trace to seek out more demanding songs and to develop a unique rendition of Daniel Caesar's 'Best Part,' incorporating intricate riffs and runs.

Ma. Krissan Tan worked with a student from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville on vocal techniques, using the vocal graph to explain resonance and practicing scales and arpeggios. The learner sang songs from various genres, including country, musical theatre, pop, and rock, to improve vocal flexibility and endurance. Ma. Krissan recommended calming the voice after the lesson and suggested Bruno Mars' "Count on Me" for future practice.

Ma. Krissan Tan guided Diego through a vocal technique lesson, emphasizing resonance, posture, and smooth transitions between vocal registers. Diego engaged in humming exercises and applied these methods to the song "New York, New York," with the goal of boosting his confidence and control, particularly on high notes. Ma. Krissan Tan also recommended that Diego explore recordings by Roberto Alana and consider a tenor audition, offering future assistance with a Tagalog or Spanish Christmas song.

Ma. Krissan Tan guided Rohan through a vocal and ear training lesson, focusing on essential breathing techniques, diaphragm engagement, and pitch matching exercises. Rohan practiced singing 'The Night We Met,' 'The Scientist,' and 'Perfect.' For his upcoming lesson, Rohan was assigned to study 'The Scientist' and 'Perfect,' along with 'Yellow.'

Ma. Krissan Tan guided Gianne through vocal exercises and song performances to improve vocal transitions and breath control. Gianne practiced techniques to blend her mid and head voices, focusing on resonance and chest voice participation in songs like "On My Own" and "Never Enough." They discussed strategies for maintaining vocal strength during performances, and scheduled another session for the following Wednesday.