Sonja M. Mertens

The singer and vocal teacher Sonja M. Mertens was trained at the Arnhem University of the Artsin the Netherlands with the diploma degree "Docerend Musicus" (teaching musician) for jazz and pop singing. She completed certificate courses in the Estill Voice Training System (EVTS) and the Ward Method, among others, and obtained a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in music physiology at the Zurich University of Music.

Sonja M. Mertens has been offering pop and jazz singing lessons for beginners and advanced students since 1999. Steeped in the highly effective method of the Estill Voice Training System as well as principles of music physiology (physical and psychological processes involved in making music), the singer and vocal coach gives instructions on the conscious usage of different vocal qualities for jazz, pop and musical genres.

Sonja M. Mertens also leads pop and jazz choirs with participants of different levels, between 10 and 70 years of age, small and large ensembles, with well-founded voice training according to EVTS, rhythm and intonation training, instructions for dealing with stage fright and vocal fatigue (according to music physiological aspects) and writes arrangements that are specially fitted to the level of the participants. She coaches choirs in stage presentation and choreography and teaches at a primary school using the Ward method.

From more than twenty years of stage experience in the artistic and commercial field, as a soloist, with bands and vocal ensembles, Sonja M. Mertens brings personal experience and knowledge to her practice-oriented teaching and attaches great importance to the perception of each individual’s characteristics and needs.

 Offerings at The Green Room: Uprightness and breath control for singers

Website: www.gesangscoach.com