Teaching Experience
Alongside her performance experience, Hana maintains an active teaching career. Currently, she teaches elementary general music and leads her school's 5th grade chorus in Howard County. She worked as the middle school music teacher at Roland Park Country School, where her position included music directing the annual musical production. Before moving to Maryland, she spent four years as elementary music teacher in Webster Groves, Missouri. Along with creating and directing multiple concerts a year for students K-5, she co-led the district's Gifted Fine Arts program for grades 3-5. Hana's informal teaching work revolves around collaborative composition, so the students have opportunities to create their own works. She led multiple sessions of Opera Camp for Kids through Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, where she returned as a virtual teacher in the summer of 2021. She also musical directed the original production Voices of Carmen through Dance and B'more through both virtual and in-person formats for three seasons.
Hana received a BA in Music from the University of Rochester and an MA in Music Education from the Eastman School of Music. She focused her research on student-composed theatrical works, further complemented by internships for Opera Theatre of Saint Louis and OPERA America, as well as the opportunity to speak on a panel at the National Opera Conference. She wholeheartedly trusts not only in the power of opera as an artistic form, but also in students’ abilities to share what matters to them through music.
Teaching Philosophy
My students’ vocal health is my first priority as a teacher. I work with my students on a classical technique so they develop their singing voices healthily and with longevity. While my own expertise lies in the Western classical musical tradition, I rely on my students’ input in order to tailor lessons to their needs. Intrinsic motivation encourages strong practice habits and a dedication to music. I want to hear your thoughts on what works best for you, what you want to learn, and how I can best get you where you want to go vocally. My lessons are a partnership; we work together for your best progress!
In the world’s current state, flexibility has become necessary in education and musical practices. I am available to teach voice lessons both in person and through remote learning. I continue to research best practices for distance learning in order to best serve my students. As long as you have access to a reliable Internet connection, we will be able to practice together. I can provide practice materials, including accompaniment tracks, and we will use individualized exercises to continue strengthening your voice.
Just as each person is unique, each voice has individuality. Through weekly sessions, we will tailor your studies together to develop strategies that suit your needs and aim you towards your singing goals. I will rely on your honest feedback to ensure that you not only feel safe and healthy during our work, but that you understand how to use each technique on your own.
Singing requires physical, vocal, and mental training to reach the level of effortlessness that best demonstrates your talents. We will focus on strengthening your technique with exercises that specifically target breath management, phonation, and resonance. We will also utilize repertoire that works for your voice to enhance skills ranging from music literacy to dramatic expression.
My personal greatest joys in life feature some combination of interesting stories, incredible music, and working with kind people. I adore spending time with all of my students as they grow into stronger, confident, individual musicians. Let us work as a team to uncover even more beauty in your voice and your life.
Testimonials
"I really admired Hana's patience and instruction during rehearsal when people were struggling with some segments of Habanera. She took the time to explain the music, and was very supportive throughout the process." - Voices of Carmen 2020 cast member
"I'm not proud to admit this, but I have never really stuck with anything for so long. Every activity that I have been a part of has faced the same issue, my lack of motivation. I used to think I was not driven or as committed to things, but then I met Ms. Abrams. She helped me realize what kind of teachers are really needed in this world today; and she's is definitely one of them. She is genuine, true, supportive, and simply amazing to say the least. I am beyond grateful for the time that I have spent learning and growing due to her outstanding guidance. Because of her, I can truly say that I have grown and become way more confident in my abilities. She was the reason why I wanted to continue which led me to push myself into becoming a better singer. Anyone taught by Ms. Abrams is so lucky to have her because they know they have not just found a teacher or a coach, but a partner that will stick with them through praise worthy and challenging stages. I literally could go on, but all in all, Ms. Abrams is for sure one of the best teachers I have ever had." - Jaci, private studio student
"Dear Hana, Thank you so much yet again for your advice and insight. I appreciate you believing in me even when I have trouble finding confidence in myself! I will find it, but it takes a little time especially with something new. I’m working on less self doubt, but of course I still do sometimes :) " - Voices of Carmen 2021 cast member
"Why do I love Ms.Hana? Yes, she does her job but she makes sure we have fun and that we are comfortable. She sees our potential and help others see it too. She builds a connection with her students and I personally love that about her. Hands down best music director/ vocal coach ever!" - J’lyn, Voices of Carmen 2021 cast member
"My time spent with Miss Hana was more than what I could have asked for. Not only did she teach me what I asked but we also worked on expanding my singing style. We explored opera, and older MT pieces that I definitely would not have found without her. She helped me gain confidence in my voice and showed me that it's okay to mess up, and have voice cracks. She made the learning environment comfortable, and always made sure I understood what I was learning. If you want to take your singing to the next level I insist that you consider taking lessons with Miss Hana." - Shayla, Voices of Carmen 2020 cast member and private studio student
"Hana is a true treasure! I had the opportunity to work with Hana as a teacher and co-advisor under trying conditions at our school. To say that she rose to the occasion is to very much understate her contribution to her colleagues and to her students. She adeptly navigated the social and academic needs of her middle school students, and shared her passion for music in fun and innovative ways. The words that come to mind in describing her as a colleague are: energetic, enthusiastic, empathetic, supportive, and, oh yes, fun!" - Diane Pniewski, RPCS
