Jillian Vicinanza
About
[5.0 rating over 79 reviews from another lesson platform]
Hey there! I'm Jillian and it's so nice to have you here.
I am a professional vocalist in NYC. I perform musical theater, classical music, and liturgical music in and around the city. I participate in professional operas, choral groups and other concert series, as well as professional theater work. Performing gives me a sense of bliss and completeness that is indescribable.
I have a Master's Degree in Music Therapy and a Bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance from SUNY New Paltz. I am a nationally board certified music therapist (MT-BC). My background in music therapy means that I am comfortable adapting lesson through a therapeutic lens to meet the needs of different individuals, regardless of their learning style, ability, diagnosis, or individual preferences.
I have been teaching voice, piano, and guitar for singers since 2011. I have run group workshops, but my favorite way to work with people is 1:1, where we can focus on every aspect of your learning process and make sure you have everything you need to succeed.
As a music therapist: I have worked in hospice (Calvary Hospice), hospitals (Montefiore), schools (too many to name in and around NYC), and with private organizations.
As a vocal coach: I have worked with individuals who--as a result of our work together--have achieved so much. Here are some examples of what these amazing souls have achieved: acceptance to very selective performing arts high schools; acceptance to selective music colleges; creation of and participation in award winning films; booking a musical role on a film set; booking various roles in musical theater, including paid productions; creation of albums released on Spotify (some with over 100k followers now); creation of new original songs; wins at musical theater competitions; wins at highly compeitive talent shows; creation of projects gifted to family and friends; increased comfort performing at open mics, karaoke, talent shows, and other fun events; participation in highly selective choirs; and so much more!
Please know: I am just as happy to work with an eight year old picking up the guitar for the first time as I am to work with a professional vocalist looking to book their next gig. We never stop learning, and sometimes being with someone in those beginning stages of their process are some of the most fun and exciting moments to share.
It is truly a passion of mine to support people as they reach their goals. I am not someone who tells you what to do, who to be, or how to shine. It's my goal to guide and support you on your path, through education that's offered through a therapeutic lens.
Reviews from Another Lesson Platform
Jillian put me at ease when I was nervous to begin and I am excited to continue working with her!
I’ve been taking life coaching sessions with Jillian for 7 months and have done reiki/yoga sessions with her for about 7 years. She is exceptional in how she makes you feel comfortable and relaxed. I usually leave our reiki sessions feeling like there’s nothing I can’t do for the rest of the day. As a life coach, Jillian has helped steer me towards more positive thinking in regards to how I treat myself. Through the use of journaling and meditative techniques, I feel I have been better able to have control over various aspects in my life the past 6 months. I am very thankful for Jillian’s sessions and knowledge. She is a kind and caring individual who gives her all for her clients. If you’re considering any of her services, I couldn’t recommend highly enough!
Jillian is an exceptional teacher of the highest caliber. Learning to sing has been a longtime desire of mine but my lack of pitch or skill and general doubt made me believe that it was just not possible. But Jillian went above and beyond to ensure I felt comfortable and confident to explore the full range of vocal expression. Her extensive experience and expertise are evident in her insightful guidance, tailored specifically to address the areas that I was struggling with during the lesson. And so each week, she's providing customized exercises based on those areas that need more attention and improvement. Her instructions are clear, precise, and have truly helped me to gradually make REAL progress. I cannot say enough about just how incredible of a teacher she is! Thank you sooo much Jillian =)
Wonderful! She is so knowledgeable, encouraging and supportive. I hadn’t sung in 30 years but her instruction, delivered in a very caring way, has let me find my voice again! No matter how I’m feeling in general before my lesson I always feel really good after 😊
ms.jillian is a great teacher because she is very understanding and flexible. she gives great critiques and i have grown so much with her. she is always positive and encouraging while making every lesson a fun and safe environment!
Jillian has been a creative writing tutor for our daughter for a couple of years. We originally wanted to give our kids some additional tutoring support during COVID, but our daughter's enjoyment of writing has absolutely blossomed while working with Jillian and we have continued the lessons since her writing interests are still so high. In addition to nurturing her creative outlet, it has been a big help during important English assignments to have the additional support. Our daughter always looks forward to the lessons which is hard to do with teenager girls. We are very grateful we have had Jillian's support during these difficult years.
I feel so lucky to have been paired with Jillian! Been taking lessons from her for a year for singing. She provides such a loving, safe space for singers of all skill levels. Jillian has such a great background in music! She understood my unique style and helps me develop my vocal range and confidence as a singer and song writer. She’s so passionate about helping people and has such a warm and loving personality. Honestly feel like she’s become a friend as well as one of my favorite instructors ever. Thank you for believing in my voice and challenging me to do more! I couldn’t recommend her more to anyone with any range of experience in singing. Whether you’ve been singing all your life or just starting out! And any musical style! She also plays and teaches piano, is a music therapist, yoga instructor, etc. and has incredible skill and talent herself! She brings all of her experience to a uniquely crafted session. You won’t regret learning from her! We also dive into other things that block us from not going for it. Thanks for being an amazing listener, teacher, and human!
I've had a lot of voice teachers in the past, but with Jillian, I've NEVER seen so much progress in such little time! She's really the GOAT! I always had very little confidence when it came to my voice but she put all those fears to rest! She exudes passion and knowledge with every session, and she's teached me in 1 lesson what my other teachers couldn't in various sessions. Love this woman to death! And I know with Jillian by my side, I'll achieve all my dreams and goals in no time!
Jillian is a miracle worker! Most of my life I believed I was tone deaf and never sang. I only started singing lessons after reading how it was great for mental health during Covid. Fast forward a year of working with Jillian, and I just received high praise at an open mic for emotional expressiveness, pitch accuracy and high notes. This is CRAZY. I've gained ear training skills, breath support, accuracy, a solid two and a half octave range (had less than half that when we started), and the ability to express my emotions and touch others through music. Jillian is that rare gem of a teacher who was capable of helping me get there from zero. She's incredibly supportive, but will also push you to new levels. You walk out of her lessons filled with joy for music and more in love with life. Could not recommend Jillian more sincerely and enthusiastically - whatever level you are, working with her is a gift!
I'm so glad I accidentally picked a music therapist to teach me to sing! She not only helps me to sing and learn techniques, but also can talk with me/support me through emotions I have during this process. Jillian is also very flexible to my needs of the session and holds a non-judgmental space so I feel more comfortable with singing and being expressive.
If 5 stars is for Best instructor ever than Jillian is the winner! When I first started, I was so afraid of singing off pitch that I was afraid to sing! Jillian has helped me to gain confidence for singing from my heart, expressing emotion. I do not even worry about pitch anymore. All of Jillian's students are so lucky like me to have Jillian for support and guidance to make our dreams a reality!
Great with my 8 year old daughter!
I ADORE Jillian! She is so sweet and encouraging. When my schedule is crazy she does everything in her power to accommodate me. It is clear that she knows what she is doing. After trying to teach myself guitar for YEARS, with the way she explains things, I am already further along after just 3 lessons. She also has a gorgeous voice! I can't wait to continue learning from her!
Jillian is fantastic! It's been a pleasure attending the weekly lesson. She's patient, kind and always willing to break down each step as much as needed. I can see a bright, in-tune future ahead :) Thanks Jillian!
5 stars for best instructor ever
Great first day.
Jillian taught our two 6 year-old daughters how to play the guitar! Jillian is always so patient, encouraging, and always takes the time to foster a caring friendship with each of them. Our girls adore her, and we’re sure everyone who knows her does as well. If you want a stress-free and happy learning experience with the guitar, look no further than Jillian!
Great start
Jillian is so supportive. Working with her helps me to listen to and to cultivate my kind inner voice as I work on my voice I share with others.
Jillian is enthusiastic and our kids loved the fun way she taught them about the parts of the guitar. They want to do well & make her proud of them, which is motivating for them.
Jillian is an absolutely fantastic singing teacher! My daughter learned so much. Jillian is patient, knowledgable and has a gorgeous voice! I highly recommend her lessons!
Jillian is not only a voice coach but she is also a music therapist. She is truly gifted, non-judgemental and wise beyond her years. She is helping me to understand and to overcome my personal barriers to singing my best.
Jillian is a wonderful instructor. This was my first meditation class and I am really looking forward to next week.
Very good attention to detail, very knowledgeable, very friendly. 10/10 would recommend :)
I purchased singing lessons for my grandson while he is homebound during the pandemic. The first lesson was today and my grandson said it was marvelous. He's very excited. My daughter-in-law said Jillian was a perfect fit for them.
Beyond expectations! Super excited about moving forward with Jilian!
Our first lesson with Jillian was great! Looking forward to more!
Amazing vocal coach - really connected with my kids!
The best instructor of music I ever had. I have zero musical background. But as an adult, wanted for the first time exposure in music. After about 4 one session guitar lessons, each with a different instructor who all basically told me I was hopeless (didn't return my call/text to schedule a next session), never did I think that I would be 20 lessons and months of guitar and voice sessions in with the same teacher. Because of Jillian, I can throw down chords on a guitar, and sing along while playing, something unimaginable foe someone as musically challenged and illiterate as myself. My future in music, as an adult whose professional background is medicine and science, appears unfathomably bright. Because of a teacher who had the patience to believe.
I was somewhat skeptical about being to learn to play guitar online but I am sure glad I gave it a try because it was amazing. I've been trying to play the guitar for 20 years and I learned more in 45 minutes with Jillian than I have all this time. Thanks!
Jillian is an wonderful teacher. Kind, patient and warm. This is my daughters first time and she encouraged her throughout the lesson. Excellent teacher!
Jillian is an amazing teacher. She knows how to get the best of out of you both with technique and emotion. I am a professional singer and I am very lucky to have worked with Jillian.. She has given e so much in terms of her knowledge, Experience, artistic interpretation and love! She is simply the best and HIGHLY recommend her as a vocal coach.
Jillian is great! I like how she has personalized the lesson and I’ve seen my son learn a lot in a little bit of time.
My daughter had a wonderful time with her first lesson! She can't wait for more!
If you have ever taken a yoga class in studio or by watching tv, you know that it’s hard to tell exactly what you need to be doing for the poses. Jillian is very knowledgeable about yoga so that you learn the correct way and the most effective way. She’s very organized and create lesson plans fitting for your needs. I like to challenge myself and learn, and Jillian’s lesson plans have helped me accomplish my goals. Every lesson I have been learning something new, and feel like I’ve had a great workout. She also can help you use yoga for healing the body. I recommend Jillian for anyone who wants to get the best quality instruction for yoga. And she’s super nice.
Felt more relaxed during the session than I’ve felt in a long time.
Real good instructor.
Excellent first voice lesson. Jillian is warm, encouraging, and very knowledgeable. I was surprised how many "technical" issues she introduced me to (optimal breathing & how best to practice it at home; appropriate use of falsetto at upper limit of bass voice range, etc.) . Looking forward to continued lessons. (Much better use of what used to be my copay for psychotherapy! I've also joined rehearsals with new Encore-NYC chorale group in Manhattan, for people over 55. Music is giving me a real emotional lift in my retirement.)
Jillian is a very friendly, gifted and delightful person to work with, and would be a good match for literally anybody. She's helped with my vocals more than any other teacher has. Thank you Jillian!
Patient, knowledgable, good location, easy parking
Jillian is a phenomenal music instructor and therapist. My kids love sessions with her. We've been going for almost a year now and it has made a huge difference in their behavior most noticeabley their attention spans! Thanks Jillian!
Jillian I an angel. She is working with my daughter who never likes anything. Now she LOVES guitar.. Thank you Jillian❤️👍
Such a wonderful, gifted and caring teacher!
Best ever
👍
great
Excellent start!
Jillian was absolutely delightful. Talented and an excellent teacher My very shy grand-daughter enjoyed her lesson with Jillian Thanks Jillian
Jillian has been teaching my teenage son piano for several months. He is always prepared and eager to attend his weekly piano lessons. She has an intuitive ability to connect with him in and make him feel at ease and comfortable. I wish he had started at an earlier age. His musical experiences have certainly exceeded my expectations.
Great! Looking forward to the net session.
She is fabulous. I know I've only had a single lesson but I can just tell. I'm so excited to have found her!! She's warm and open and knowledgeable! Yay!
Looking forward to more lessons!
My first lesson was great, she made great changes. Jillian is a true professional knows exactly what's needed in order for you to excel.
Even though I just had one lesson, I feel completely comfortable with Jillian. I appreciate her methods, enthusiasm and openness.
Jillian is terrific! She is so positive, fun and patient! My daughter did not want to leave!
I feel I'm in good hands with Jillian and that she knows her stuff. ONe thing that makes her stand out is that I can email practice recordings to her during the week and get feedback without waiting until next lesson.
Awesome lesson! Jillian balanced the time with discussing material, playing and practical tips for playing unfamiliar music.
Jillian is a very patient and knowledgeable singing instructor. She really helps you find ways to improve your musicianship. I totally recommend her services 👍👍👍...
Jillian is a professional with great experience and very patient and kind as well. Really looking forward to more lessons!
Very sweet and understanding in what you are trying to achieve.
Jillian is a wonderful instructor! I just had my first lesson with her and she was very welcoming, positive, encouraging and knowledgeable. I really enjoyed my time with her and learned a ton. Thank you Jillian :)
I have been working with Jillian on vocal training (i.e., singing) since June 2014. She is an outstanding instructor - very patient, great attitude, uses positive reinforcement, provides very helpful feedback and encouragement. Highly recommended!
Jillian is an incredible piano teacher. She is patient and makes learning the piano fun for our five year old!
Wonderful Teacher My son loves working with Jillian. He has never been exposed to singing before but wanted to give it a try and so far he is enjoying it.
Jillian's really smart and nice I started taking lessons with Jillian around when i started high school a couple years ago. I play french horn in school, and I'm considering studying music in college, so I definitely needed to know more music theory. I play guitar too, so we started studying songwriting, too, so that I can write some songs with my band. Jillian's so nice, and really smart, so she makes it really easy to learn! I really like classes with her.
One of the best teachers I have ever had I am a 15 years old and have been taking lessons with Jillian for about a year and a half. I started out as a beginner and she was so patient with me and encouraged me continuously so that I can feel confident in myself. She also made the experience so much fun, while other teachers I've had made it stressful. She is also so knowledgable and talented but never made me feel bad that i wasnt at her level. Jillian is also cares about all her students and their progress. I cant recommend her enough to everyone who wants to learn!!
Super Helpful!!! I worked with Jillian for about 5 months and she helped me more than I could have ever imagined. After singing in my church choir for more than 3 years, I wanted to be able to start performing solos at mass. While practicing with Jillian, she helped me to develop my voice using creative and fun exercises that I never even knew existed. She created a comfortable environment and helped me to control my voice. As a result, I eventually gained the confidence I needed in order to perform various psalms and songs infront of a packed church. I can't thank her enough for what she has done for me. I'm sure her lessons will stay with me for the rest of my life!
Best Teacher Ever!!! I've been working with Jillian for a few years when I needed a voice coach for school choir. I can honestly say she is one of my favorite teachers! She's so much fun and whenever I feel like giving up she encourages me through it and I don't feel like its stressful work although I am learning so much. She's such a sweet person and non-judgemental which I think is so important for a teacher especially a singing coach. She's also very patient which was important for me since I was/am a beginner. Jillian is also unbelievabley talented but she doesn't rub it in your face and make you feel like youre not as good, which has been my experience with other voice teachers. If youre looking for someone who is relatable and does so much for you bc she wants to see you succeed then you should definitely choose Jillian as your teacher. I hope I can work with her forever because she's that awesome!
Learned so much! Been going to Jillian for a few months and she's awesome. I've been looking for a voice coach for a long time and I'm so lucky I found her because not only is she talented, but she knows how to train a singer. She's a lot of fun to be around which makes the lessons even that much more enjoyable. I definitely recommend her as a teacher!
Great Instructor Jillian is very knowledgable and talented. I was searching around for an instructor so I can develop sight singing skills, and with Jillian's help I think I have come along way. Very easy to get along with and really cares about your progress.
Jillian is GREAT! I took music theory and voice lessons with Jillian for almost 2 years (21 months) about 5 years ago. At first it was basically my parents who persuaded me to take her lessons, but I needed to take theory to help me compose music in college (which I currently attend). I knew I needed that basic knowledge and understanding if I wanted to further my personal growth and hopefully career. I've kept in contact with her periodically through the years, often bugging her for advice or suggestions (she's great at getting back to me). She really worked with me to develop the sound I wanted and helped increase my range. Jillian has this obvious love for music and I felt comfortable with her from day 1. Her high energy and genuinity made me feel relaxed and appreciative. Her enthusiasm about music, whether it be about theory, technique or performance, really inspired me and I was able to learn so much from her. Bottom line, she's amazing!
Jillian is the best! I've been looking for a voice lessons coach for so long and didn't find anyone who I felt comfortable with until I started with Jillian a few months ago. Her positive attitude is contagious and it actually makes me really excited every time I have a lesson. Jillian is so supportive and actually seems interested. Not only that, she's really knowledgeable and I've learned so much of music theory and sight singing in my lessons with her. You won't be disappointed if you choose Jillian as your voice coach.
Best Singing Instructor I've Ever Had!! I had such an incredible experience with Jillian. First off, let me just say what a warm, gentle, and kind person she is. With other voice instructors I've felt intimidated and just really uncomfortable but it was really a joy being with Jillian. I didn't feel any sort of pressure to perform and she really took me step by step and truly believed in my potential. And she was so down to earth! I feel like I've known her for years. Just her being so happy and loving her job inspired me and I know that my skills have improved in just a few sessions. I cannot recommend Jillian enough!
Rated this class 5 stars.
Rated this class 5 stars.
Rated this class 5 stars.
Rated this class 5 stars.
Rated this class 5 stars.
Rated this class 5 stars.
Teaching Style
As a voice teacher/vocal coach: I want to help my students settle comfortably into their own musicality by showing them the building blocks of a solid technique, drawing particularly from the things that helped me grow as a vocalist. I want my students to feel strong in their body, comfortable and relaxed in their breath, and confident in their performance. Above all, I want my students to feel empowered and safe to explore and take risks.
I offer all my sessions virtually, and it has been so beautiful being able to connect with people from all over the world. I feel confident in my abilities to create a safe, nourishing space of acceptance. I see all my students through a therapeutic, trauma-informed, and holistic lens.
For fun!: I'm a student of astrology, currently working on a memoir, and enjoy spending time with my rescue dog, Chloe (who I love SO much). I love: to read, travel, and be anywhere near water (lakes, rivers, oceans--yes please!)
Thank you for reading my page!
Credentials & Affiliations
I have a Master's degree in Music Therapy (SUNY New Paltz) and am a nationally board certified music therapist (MT-BC); performer and vocal instructor. I have a Bachelor's in Music Performance (SUNY New Paltz); nationally certified yoga instructor and meditation guide (300+); certified and attuned Reiki master; practicing Life Coach; and professional writer and editor (Bachelor’s in creative writing). I am a certified birth doula (CD-DONA), and I am also a Crisis Text Line Counselor. If this sounds like a lot--it's because it is! I find joy in learning.
