Audrey Howitt Interviews Vocalcoach
Snag some background on an inspired artist, teacher, and writer
Audrey, thanks for taking the time to chat with me today. Can we begin by having you tell us a little about yourself, some of your background, where you’re from, that sort of thing?
I grew up in Southern California where music and movies were a daily part of life. We were so poor that getting a new pair of shoes was a family celebration.
Both my mother and my father were a strong influence where music was concerned and saw to it that I studied voice and piano. I was trained classically and worked very hard. Music was my escape from a difficult childhood. I started singing publicly at the age of 3 and never looked back. Music was my friend. I didn’t know back then that it would become my life’s work and joy.
How long have you been writing, and how often do you write?
Writing comes pretty easy to me. My father was a gifted poet and I stole some of his talent. My earliest writings were spawned in grade school. My, my, what an imagination! Words were like little angels with wings carrying me to places unexplored. I’ve written complete vocal courses for the singer which have been published and thousands of articles mostly on a technical nature focusing on how the voice works.
I know that you are dealing with a personal loss and I know this is a difficult time for you. How have you coped with your loss, and have you used your writing to help heal?
It is natural in life to have trials and we all do. But it isn't natural for a mother to lose a child – at any age. I lost a huge part of myself when cancer took my son leaving my four grandchildren without their father. They were his life and he was their only parent. My grief was never-ending. And then I found HubPages.
How did you discover HubPages?
I had been writing for eHow as well as my own website. One of my writing buddies mention HubPages, I investigated and joined up. I had no idea that his major step would be the catalyst for changing my life forever. Through writing, support from Hub friends I have found a way to replace grief with peace.
You also sing, are a voice teacher and a piano teacher. How long have you been doing this, and how did you start teaching? What musical genre or genres do you teach? Do you enjoy writing about music? Do you perform? Where?
Singing professionally along with being a pianist has been a way of life for me, providing excitement, growth and good income (subsidized by teaching.) I have performed for the governor of Hawaii and at major hotels, cuise ships, fairs, churches, weddings, and funerals…you name it.
I have always loved teaching, even as a child. Instructing others is as natural as breathing. I find tremendous joy in being a part of a persons progress. Serving others in any capacity is my passion. So it is natural that I pursued a teaching degree in music on a college level. I started the first music program for Kauai Community College as well as my own School of Music on Kauai .
Do you write outside of HubPages? What else do you write? Where else can we find your writing?
I’d like to write a book of poetry for children focusing on self-esteem. In fact one of the poems I wrote for HubPages is being considered with offers of more to follow. My complete vocal course can be found on my website www.singtome.com along with more articles on singing. I’ve recently joined Wissley.com.
What else would you like to explore both on HubPages and in your own life?
Knowledge “turns me on” which is why I love HubPages so much. I feel like Columbus discovering America as I dive into the endless array of magnificent Hubs. My one regret is that I wanted to go to school for the rest of my life. To my surprise I’m doing that right here on HubPages.
Who am I, and am I lovable? Deep questions that are being answered as I write. Through writing here on HubPages I ‘m discovering more about myself every time I write. Through comments left on my Hubs, confirmation that I am loved permeates my very soul.
What, if anything have you learned about yourself in the process of writing for HubPages and what advice would you give to a person just starting out on HubPages?
To those who have recently joined HubPages, you are beginning an exciting journey of self discovery. This is the place to unleash the power of words. Be bold as you write and make your content original and always helpful. As you write, stop often and ask the question “How is this helping the reader.” Write regularly and often. Always leave a comment after reading a Hub. Encourage and support fellow writers. Remember to keep your sense of humor and most importantly – enjoy the journey!
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