Bachelor of Fine Arts (York University)
Katie Thurman is a singer, pianist, accompanist, and teacher based in Toronto. Her passion for music has been with her since childhood, and she is excited to have recently completed her undergraduate degree in music at York University.
Trained classically in piano, she continues to explore other styles including pop and jazz, as well as write her own compositions. Her vocal training is in both classical and musical theatre styles, as well as lengthy choral experience both in and out of school.
Katie spent 6 years singing with WIBI A Cappella, a collegiate-based group, during her time at York, and is proud to have competed with them twice in the ICCA (the very competition the Pitch Perfect films were based on!). Currently, she sings with the Toronto-based That Choir.
Katie loves all types of music, but spends most of her time listening to pop, indie, and alt-pop records.
Katie also writes her own songs and is working towards putting together an EP. Aside from music, Katie’s other passions include baking, film, and psychology. She loves teaching and is always pushing herself to grow pedagogically and musically!
Get to know Katie…Beyond the Bio!
Hobbies: baking, watching movies/TV, writing, yoga, hiking
Musical influences: Classical: Natalie Dessay, Maria Callas/Pop: Arcade Fire, Lana Del Rey, BANKS, Florence & the Machine, Rhye
Favourite food: Pasta
Least favourite food: Seafood
Favourite music: pop & alt-pop, indie/folk, dance, and all things Celtic
Favourite song: currently “Favourite Boy” by Half Moon Run
Favourite movie: Eighth Grade
Favourite movie music: A Single Man, music composed by Abel Korzeniowski?
Favourite musical theatre/opera: Les Misérables
Best quote from your teacher: Vocal teacher: “Just go for it! We want to hear ‘Katie-and-a-half'”.
Favourite quote: Motivation comes from work
Favourite book: The Handmaid’s Tale
Best thing about teaching at ABC: I like sharing my knowledge with students, and I learn from them too!
Latest Homework from Katie
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The Therapeutic Power of Music
Wondering about the benefits of music? In a fast-paced world filled with responsibilities and stress, finding avenues for joy and relaxation is magical and it is essential for personal well-being. Making music can be a powerful therapeutically source of both. This article explores how adult music lessons can serve you as a gateway to rediscovering the joys of life and alleviating you from tension.
Finding Joy in Music Lessons and Rediscovering Passion
As adults, we often leave behind our childhood passions. However, it’s never too late to reignite the spark. Adult music lessons will provide you the opportunity to reconnect with your love for music. Whether you played an instrument in your youth or have always wanted to, picking up an instrument again can bring immense joy.
Music lessons are therapeutic
Music is Exploration and Experimentation
Practicing music is a vast realm with countless instruments and genres waiting to be explored. With flexible schedules, and several locations for music lessons you can embrace the joy of experimentation by trying different instruments (Guitar lessons, violin lessons, Piano lessons, and more, or delving into different musical genres.
The thrill of discovering a new instrument or genre can be incredibly fulfilling.
Sharing Music with Loved Ones
Music has a unique power to bring people together. Learning an instrument as an adult allows you to share this joy with loved ones. Whether you’re playing for family gatherings or jamming with your friends, music becomes a means of bonding, creating cherished memories along your way.
Music as a Stress Reliever
Music practices embarks you on a lifelong journey of learning and growth
Soothing Rhythms
The therapeutic effects and benefits of music on stress are well-documented. Playing or even listening to music with soothing rhythms can calm your mind and reduce your stress levels. ABC Academy of Music, https://www.music-lessons.ca/ offers you the opportunity to create your stress-relief playlist through your own performances.
Expressive Release
Life can be overwhelming, and emotions can run high. Music provides a safe and expressive outlet for these emotions. Through music lessons, adults can channel their stress, frustration, or sadness into their musical creations, allowing for emotional release and relief.
Mindful Practice
Learning music requires focus and concentration, making it an ideal form of mindfulness meditation. The act of practicing an instrument can help adults stay in the present moment, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Learn more at https://www.music-lessons.ca/
Music lessons will enhance your cognitive functions
Lifelong Learning for Mental Health
Music and Mental Well-Being
Numerous studies have shown the positive impact and the benefits of music on mental health. Engaging with music through lessons will enhance your cognitive functions, uplifts mood, and can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Learning music as an adult becomes an avenue for enhancing and protecting mental wellness. Music practices are so beneficial for general well-being at all ages.
A Lifelong Journey
Embracing music as an adult is not just about acquiring a new skill; it’s about embarking you on a lifelong journey of learning and growth. This ongoing process can be deeply fulfilling and contribute to a sense of purpose and to your well-being.
Boosting Confidence
Mastering an instrument, even as an adult, is an achievement that boosts self-esteem and self-confidence. The sense of accomplishment that comes with musical proficiency can positively impact various aspects of your life.
Different notes make a delightful melody
In a world where stress is pervasive, finding joy and relaxation is essential. Adult music lessons at ABC academy is a unique path to both. By rediscovering your passion for music, exploring new horizons, and using music as a stress-relief tool, you can enhance your mental well-being and lead a more fulfilling life, learn more at https://www.music-lessons.ca/
Embrace the therapeutic power of music, and let it be your gateway to joy and stress relief. Consider enrolling in adult music lessons today, and embark on a melodious journey of self-discovery and well-being.
PS – DID YOU FIND THIS INTERESTING?
Check out our post:
“Music lessons reduce negative emotions and stimulate brain activity”
Additional Reading for Your Interest:
The Therapeutic Powers of Music for Positive Mental Health
Preferred Books for Katie’s Students
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Faber & Faber Piano Adventures
The 2nd Edition Primer Lesson Book introduces the keyboard, note values, and the grand staff. Students play in C 5-finger scale patterns, develop recognition of steps and skips, and learn letter names independent of finger number. Musicianship is built through the use of dynamics and coloristic experimentation with the pedal. The book is organized into units which represent the major concepts and skills. As new units are introduced, earlier concepts and skills are constantly reviewed.
Music for Little Mozarts
Lesson Book 1
Lesson Book 1 is pre-reading. Concepts taught are: How to sit at the piano; Correct hand position; High and low; Loud and soft (forte and piano); Keyboard topography; Bar line and measure, Quarter, half, whole notes and rests; and Repeat signs.
Alfred's Adult Basic All-In-One
Alfred’s Basic Adult All-in-One Course is designed for use with a piano instructor for the beginning student looking for a truly complete piano course. It is a greatly expanded version of Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course that will include lesson, theory, and technique in a convenient, “all-in-one” format. This comprehensive course adds such features as isometric hand exercises, finger strengthening drills, and written assignments that reinforce each lesson’s concepts. There is a smooth, logical progression between each lesson, a thorough explanation of chord theory and playing styles, and outstanding extra songs, including folk, classical, and contemporary selections.
RCM Voice Repertoire
A Comprehensive Voice Series serves as the official resource for voice assessments of the Royal Conservatory Music Development Program. Featuring an outstanding selection of voice literature and supporting materials, this series offers a truly enriched learning experience to help ensure student success. As in previous editions, Resonance encompasses a rich and varied selection of Repertoire, Vocalises and Recitatives that students of all ages and voice types will find appropriate to their musical interests and level of technical ability.
Vocal Workouts for the Contemporary Singer
The vocal workouts in this much-anticipated follow-up to Peckham’s The Contemporary Singer are based on Berklee College of Music’s highly effective vocal method. This volume will help vocalists develop the voice through good vocal health, warm-up exercises, advanced techniques, stage performance advice and more. Includes companion online audio for ultimate interactive education!
Alfred's Teach Yourself to Sing
Learn to sing and open up a brand new world of musical knowledge with this exciting method from Alfred Music. Beginning with the fundamentals, you will learn about equipment used by singers, vocal health, and getting acquainted with reading music. You will then move right along to breathing, vocalizing, proper warm-ups, and singing songs, lesson by lesson, all while continuing to increase your knowledge of reading and understanding music. You will learn to sing an array of musical styles including pop, jazz, classical, and musical theater. Near the end of the book, you will be introduced to the idea of individual interpretation, which will help you color your songs with your own unique style. The book features a chord and scale chart for reference during and after your lessons.
