Nedra Gaskill
Voice teacher. Performer. Healer. Activist.
I love to sing. Singing brings me enormous joy, and I perform whenever I can. I also love to teach singing and ignite that joy in others.
My approach to teaching is to tune in to my students and pull the best out of them with encouragement and positive reinforcement. Sharing in my students’ excitement when they achieve their goals is amazing; it never gets old. I don’t ever want to retire!
Singing isn’t just about hitting a certain note or performing to meet a certain standard. It can be a source of comfort, an emotional outlet, and a path to healing and happiness.
I appreciate how vulnerable singing in front of another can feel; I provide a supportive atmosphere where students can discover what their voices can do.
I’m a lifelong learner and am always exploring the latest scientific research as well as different techniques. I’m currently studying throat and overtone singing, as well as how to teach transgender and nonbinary voices.
I’ve also studied sound healing and toning with the voice for several decades; I really enjoy using it to help others when I can. Through this work, I’ve seen that sound vibrations extend out infinitely and can positively affect our bodies and minds as well as those around us.
I’m actively involved in the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) and coach students through their competitions each year. I also sing and play guitar with the Seattle Peace Chorus Action Ensemble at local events promoting peace and justice. In addition, I belong to The Voice Foundation, The Seattle Music Performance Group, and the Mill Creek Chamber of Commerce.
I graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Vocal Music Education in 1968 and joined NATS in 1976. I’ve held office in NATS at the national, regional, district, and local levels.