Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Belinda Jimenez.
Dr. Jimenez, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have been a music lover and a musician all my life. I grew up in rural Kansas, and began studying music at a very young age by taking piano, voice, and violin lessons. I was very fortunate to have a supportive family who encouraged my dreams of becoming a famous musician. After many years of performing, competing, and learning about music, I decided to continue my education by pursuing degrees in the field. I ventured to Boston University where I graduated with a degree in vocal performance. I then attended Arizona State University to earn both my master’s and doctorate degrees in vocal performance with an emphasis in opera and classical music.
Throughout my degrees, I became very interested in the mechanics of the voice as well as the various methods to teach singing and music. I began teaching during the end of my bachelor’s degree and have been teaching ever since. Though my specialty in teaching and performing is singing, I have continued to play and teach my first instrument: the piano.
I have now been teaching voice and piano lessons for the past eight years. When my husband and I moved to the LA area in 2016, I decided to open my own studio and offer lessons to local musicians. I continue to perform in the area, but teaching has become my passion. I have been extremely fortunate to share music with so many wonderful students of all ages and abilities in LA.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road! Being a musician is never a smooth road! Teaching as well as performing involves many obstacles. When I moved to LA a little over a year ago, I had to build a new studio with all new students. It is much easier to get new students through references. Although it took a couple of months for my business to gain momentum, I am very happy to now have many talented and intelligent students.
I always tell my students who wish to pursuing performing careers that being a musician is not easy. There will always be rejection and heartache along with the thrill of performing. But I am a firm believer in hard work and dedication. If you work hard (and practice!), you can do anything.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Belinda Jimenez Voice & Piano Studio – what should we know?
My business is all about voice and piano lessons. I primarily teach private lessons, but I also have some families who prefer group lessons. I take students of all ages and all abilities, and I cater each lesson to the individual student. Every student starts taking music lessons with a different goal in mind: some want to play Für Elise, some want to audition for their school’s musical, and most want to learn more about music and improve on their instrument. I want my students to leave their lessons feeling happy, motivated, and accomplished, so I teach with the student’s goals in mind.
Not only do I have the advanced education and years of experience, but I love teaching. I truly enjoy getting to know my students and families and helping them work toward their goals. I have taught students from ages 3-70, and I am comfortable communicating with all different types of people. I believe that when a student feels comfortable and relaxed, they are better able to learn.
That being said, I do have high expectations for my students. I expect students to practice and come to their lessons prepared and ready to learn. However, I have experienced when the student is better prepared, they have more fun in lessons.
I believe my business is different from the other music studios because I try to provide a more personal touch. I am flexible with scheduling, I am understanding of personal situations, and I do everything I can to inspire my students.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I believe that being a kind person and wanting your students to reach their goals is the most important element to being a good teacher. My students’ goals become my goals, and we work together to be successful.
Pricing:
- $15 – 30-minute introductory lesson
- $30 – 30-minute lesson
- $40 – 45-minute lesson
- $50 – 60-minute lesson
Contact Info:
- Website: belindapaige.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/belinda-jimenez-voice-and-piano-studio-temple-city
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
