Singing is an art. So is teaching.

I offer collaborative, evidence-informed voice instruction in Oakland, CA and online.

I teach technique for all popular music styles, from absolute beginner to professional artist.

Everyone is welcome in my studio, and now is the perfect time to start singing.

Contact me →

 

how it started

I grew up in a family of musicians and songwriters. After decades of performing in various styles, I deepened my practice by learning the art and science of teaching. Unlike most voice teachers, I didn’t start with classical music — and you don’t have to, either.

Contemporary vocal technique showcases the performer’s individuality while gesturing at the breadth of human experience. The voice can make an astounding variety of sounds, including screams, growls, belts, and grunts. These sounds can be produced healthfully, and I perform and teach them all.

 

“I needed to sing because nobody else was singing my songs.”

— david bowie

 

how it’s going

I am currently working toward a masters degree in voice pedagogy through the Voice Study Centre in partnership with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. The challenge of continuing education keeps me responsive to the changing needs of my students.

My research so far has included tongue physiology, breathing strategies for contemporary singing, and the self-reported voice training needs of working professional vocalists. It is an extreme privilege to study the music I love and the people who commit their bodies and souls to performing it.

 

I teach best when I’m performing, and I perform best
when I’m teaching. It’s important to me to keep doing both.

 

I perform original music both solo and with a band. I also write stories and poetry, and like to weave songs and narrative together. Here are a couple of projects I’m proud of. Click the image to listen for free.

A band photograph of Psychic Friends Network.

PSYCHIC FRIENDS NETWORK / PAST PRESENT SUTURE
A rock album recorded live in the studio in 2020.

The cover art for an audiobook called Cygnus Loop

CYGNUS LOOP
A soundtrack for an imaginary planetarium show.

A portrait of May Oskan with her two sisters in the background during a performance of The Ape Woman.

THE APE WOMAN / LIVE AT THE BERKSHIRE FRINGE
A rock musical I wrote, directed, and sang lead vocals in.

 

Thank you for reading, and I look forward to connecting with you on your singing journey.
- May Oskan

THE APE WOMAN cast photo from the Exit Theatre in San Francisco. I highly recommend playing rock and roll with friends and family.