This is Us
Amy Konowalyk
A childhood steeped in choir practices, musicals, festivals and lessons in piano, flute and voice led Amy to Douglas College where she trained classically, excelling in her study of the voice as well as music theory and history. Studying with Eric Hannan (Head of Voice and Choirs, Douglas College and Conductor, Vancouver Cantata Singers), Amy cultivated a love of choral music, a fascination with vocal pedagogy and genuine appreciation for a well-shaped phrase.
Amy’s history as a music educator includes conducting four children’s choirs (Abbotsford & Victoria) and the adult amateur Revelation Gospel Choir (Victoria). Since 2004, Amy has enjoyed her time teaching private lessons through such reputable studios as Long & McQuade Lesson Studio, Larsen School of Music and South Island Studio.
Part of what makes Amy an approachable and flexible teacher is her experience outside of the classical and choral world. She is a sought after coach working with many of the Island’s professional and semi-professional bands and vocalists, preparing lead and backup singers alike for the challenges of touring and recording. In demand as a harmony singer…at one time touring the country with PIGS, a tribute to Pink Floyd where her commanding performance of The Great Gig in the Sky brought the house down every night. Currently, you can find her singing with Victoria’s premiere chamber choir Vox Humana and her coolest gig yet … working her tail off to ensure Timbre Voice Lab becomes the number one destination for singers looking to discover their authentic voice by using the whole body to protect and support it.
PHOTO CREDIT: John Carlow at findingcharlotte.ca
PHOTO CREDIT: ethosimagery.com
“Amy is so easy to learn from: relaxed, flexible and so very gifted herself. She brings her passion for music and zest for life to every session. I would recommend her for anyone who wants to improve their vocal skill and have a little fun in the process.”
- CRISTINE / STUDENT
Alexandra Berg
Alexandra Berg is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, composer and vocalist who, in recent years, has grown passionate about voice education.
Having earned her Diploma in Music Performance of Contemporary Voice from Camosun College and the Victoria Conservatory of Music as well as a Graduate Certificate in Composition from Humber College in Toronto, Alex began teaching. But her own journey with chronic illness and the resulting Muscle Tension Dysphonia led her to further explore a somatic and science informed approach to her instrument. Alex is incredibly intuitive, curious and knowledgeable and is passionate about helping others explore their own unique voice.
Alexandra would be a good fit for any age or experience level and she is particularly at home in the performance practice of musical theatre, R&B and pop. -
PHOTO CREDIT: ethosimagery.com
“My time learning from and being coached by Steph was incredibly beneficial. She pushed me in the best possible way to become a better singer, songwriter, and performer. Her knowledge and understanding of music opened me up to a whole side of exploration that I didn’t know existed. I’m so grateful to have been able to learn from her. She’s a phenomenal artist and teacher.”
- MADELINE RUTH / STUDENT