Aziza Poggi-Ortiz

My name is Aziza P. and I am a classically trained mezzo-soprano singer from the Grand Rapids, Michigan area.  I have a Bachelor of arts degree with a focus on interdiscplinary music studies at Berklee College of Music.  I previously studied at Grand Rapids Community College Music Department for music performance and education. I have been studying voice for over 20 years and I was the classic underdog who rose up by competing for grants in college for voice, performing in honors recitals, and touring the United States and Europe with my classical symphonic metal band Aria Flame.  I sing both rock and classical on a semi-regular basis outside of teaching it. In classical singing, I often sing at weddings, ceremonies, special events, concerts, and am a singing member and Board member of The West Michigan Opera Project.

I have studied with Dr. Stephen Barton (GRCC music department), Bill Bokhout (Opera Grand Rapids), Diane Koperski (GRCC voice program), Mary Zimmer (White Empress), Melissa Ferlaak (Plague of Stars), Pamela Moore (Queensryche), and currently with Master Voice Instructor Nicholas Loren. I believe if you want to be great at something, you never stop learning. 

People may not realize that singing is a lot about confidence. Working with a vocal coach is an excellent way to increase your confidence while learning ways to improve and develop your voice. I know the fundamentals of breath support and technique and I can teach many different styles.

My students have gone on to audition on a national level for American Idol and The Voice, gotten lead roles locally in plays and musical theater, have continued their education through the prestigious programs at the Interlochen Center for the Arts and also at Berklee College of Music. I have won awards, been on the Deans List consistently for the last three years at Berklee College of Music as well as won an award for best singing coach for a singing competition one of my top students was in. 

I have worked as an actor, talent manager, and casting assistant and am also available for hire as a talent coach and for career advice. I can help you further your goals and will cater lessons to your goals and needs. 

Currently, I am accepting beginner to intermediate students 8 years or older for classical voice and pop (rock) vocal style in person at my studio online.  Please note that a parent or guardian must be nearby for a technical hand.   Lessons are one full hour or half hour.  

Voice Teacher

Apr 2013 - Present

Aziza Voice Studios

My own in Studio and Online Voice Studio

Interdisciplinary Music Studies - Deans list all of 2021

Jun 2020

Berklee College of Music

Classical Voice

Aug 2009 - Apr 2013

Grand Rapids Community College

Classical and Pop Voice

Aug 2009 - May 2017

Diction in:

French

Limited Proficiency

German

Limited Proficiency

Italian

Limited Proficiency

Spanish

Limited Proficiency