Annie Haden

Annie Haden is a locally-based musician and music educator with over 25 years of training and experience.

Originally from Washington, DC, she is an accomplished vocalist, guitarist and songwriter with a lifelong passion for all things music. At the age of 5, Annie began her studies at the Center for Contemporary Music (CMC) with voice and guitar. By age 9, she was recognized as one of the legendary Apollo Theater’s Stars of Tomorrow, performing live on the nationally-televised “Showtime at the Apollo” in New York City. Annie has won and placed in several other local and national competitions and has made appearances on local, national and international television and radio programs through the years, with live performances that range from the Swedish Embassy, DC101, and the Freddie Mac Foundation, to the Bowery Electric in NYC.

Annie has extensive knowledge and expertise in several areas of live performance, including musical theatre, talent search & competition, choir, guitar ensembles, bands, solo performance, acting, dance and more. She has held several leading roles in community and school theatrical productions, was selected for ACDA state choir at age 12, elected Drama Club President as a Senior in High School and has participated in several performing arts programs and intensives over the years.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) with a minor in Spanish language (si, habla español), Annie worked in the tech space in New York City for several years before turning her focus to music full time. She currently performs locally in Charlotte as a solo artist, covering Rock, Pop, Country, R & B and Jazz genres across the decades.

Annie believes that music, like all art forms, is a universal language that allows us to tap into creativity, self-expression and meaningful interpersonal connection.

Annie has taught voice and guitar to students of all skill levels and ages and is highly committed to fostering a compelling and supportive environment for students to learn and grow as musicians. Lessons are personalized to the individual goals and needs of each student while challenging them to continuously develop their craft. Most importantly, Annie believes that music should be fun.

In voice lessons, students develop healthy and sustainable vocal techniques while expanding skills as musicians and performing artists. From jazz standards to musical theatre to pop/contemporary, Annie leads her lessons with fundamental skills in connecting body and breath. Her lessons also incorporate vocal technique, music theory, music history, improvisation and performance coaching. Specializations include live performance, musical theatre and audition prep.

Guitar lessons focus on a variety of playing styles to provide each student with a more foundational, comprehensive music learning experience. With an emphasis on form, technique and theory, Annie helps students take their skills to the next level.

Whether you are a complete beginner, a more experienced player wanting to improve your skills, Annie is enthusiastic about helping students reach their goals. Lessons tailored towards self-accompaniment and/or songwriting are available upon request!