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Learn more about Eli

• When did you first develop a passion for music and your favorite instrument?

  I grew up in a family that lives by music as a way of life. I have always loved the creative freedom that music can bring into peoples lives.

• Is there a particular type of music or artist that you listen to on a loop without it driving you crazy?

  I know this isn't what I teach but I'm obsessed with Imagine Dragons and AJR. Imagine Dragons mercury albums have me hooked! I love the way these artists express themselves so clearly, but in such a hidden way. Alternative truly is a beautiful music genre.

• Explain to us the most difficult or riveting course you could personally give to a student of music.

  The most difficult, yet essential course every singer should take, would have to be operatics/classical. Though for most this course will seem boring and useless (believe me I was one of those people), operatics and classical singing can allow you to train your voice to another level. This course brings out your full potential in every genre of music. In operatics/classical, we cover everything from dynamics and facial expression, to the science behind your vocal cords.

• What do you think is the most complicated instrument to master and why?

  The drums would have to be the most difficult instrument I can think of. The amount of focus, rhythm, and creativity you need to master this instrument is beyond me. Your coordination and quick thinking is essential. Unlike the guitar that has specific chords and frets for you to choose from, the drums can sound a million different ways. It is the most individualistic instrument, and by far the hardest to master.

• What are your keys to success?

  Focus, and practice. If you struggle with focus, thats okay! I struggle with focusing sometimes, what I've learned though, is that when it comes to something you love to do, you know how to make practice fun. Practice practice practice! Vocal practice is very simple! You can hum to yourself wherever you please and lip trills at any given moment! Practice does NOT make perfect, practice makes progress.

• Name three musicians you dream of meeting in your favorite bar in the early hours of the morning. Explain why.

  I dream of meeting Nina Simone because her voice was so rich and beautiful like a true alto sound. I would love to learn how she managed to train her voice to get to such a beautiful sound. Ariana Grande, purely to get advice on expanding my range. She and Mariah Carey have some of the larges vocal ranges ever heard. I would love to learn from a professional like that. Lastly, Amy Winehouse. Amy was an amazing singer and had an amazing tone, I would love to hear her sing in person.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to music or your days at music school.

  In my freshman year of high school, our vocal teachers informed us that we would be spending our first two years working solely on classical music and opera. I was annoyed to say the least. At the time, I hated singing opera with all of my being. Our teachers made us sing in multiple languages including Italian, French , German , Spanish, and if we were VERY lucky we got to sing in English. Looking back on my freshman year, I now realize that singing in those different languages and styles that I never would have tried to do before, gave me every important lesson that I needed to learn to truly start singing.

• What are the little touches that make you a Superprof in music?

  I have been working with music since I was three years old, and every since elementary school, I have gone to music/performing art based schools. Along the way, I picked up tips and tricks from my teachers as well as my peers, and learned how to form others voices into how they were meant to sound.