Jennifer Griffith

My musical life has developed along three closely connected paths: singer, pianist, and songwriter/composer.

I perform as a singer-pianist across a wide range of repertoire and have also played keys in a Soul/R&B/Motown band. I hold a degree in piano and have a lifetime of experience performing solo and collaborative repertoire, always with an ear toward storytelling and musical communication.

My vocal training includes study with jazz artists Mark Murphy and Jay Clayton, as well as insights into voice production from opera soloist Adriana Mastrangelo. These experiences inform a flexible, genre-aware approach to voice that prioritizes clarity of text, musical intention, and expressive freedom.

As a composer, my operas have been performed in New York City by professional companies. I also work across many styles and often support other artists as a creative consultant or “song doctor,” helping them clarify ideas, strengthen form, and bring unfinished pieces to completion.

I especially enjoy working with intermediate and advanced students who are curious, reflective, and engaged in their own artistic process. One-off sessions on specific musical questions — performance, interpretation, theory, or composition — are also welcome.

I coach singer-pianists, songwriters, and performers who want their music to speak — through clarity of text, secure technique, and expressive freedom. Text first. Technique in service of expression.

My approach centers on two core pillars:

• Mastering the text
We work with lyrics independently of the music to uncover meaning, nuance, and emotional intent. Clear, expressive pronunciation and natural musical speech are essential to authentic storytelling.

• Secure vocal technique
Through breath, tone, and interpretive clarity, students build confidence and freedom in their voices, whether singing for personal enjoyment or public performance.

Together, these elements allow the music to flow with ease. We also explore creative choices — honoring a genre, blending styles, or re-imagining songs through tempo, dynamics, and phrasing.

Songwriting & composition
I support songwriters and composers in developing melodies and harmonies that serve the text, as well as principles of form, coherence, and direction. My teaching spans styles including pop, show tunes, rock, jazz, classical, and contemporary concert music.

Singer-pianists
I teach practical accompaniment techniques that support the voice clearly and musically. Advanced students can explore stylistic conventions in pop, blues, R&B, Latin, or classical repertoire.

I also offer guidance on navigating the professional music world, from performance opportunities to recording and promotion.