Kind Words
✧ From former Students and Colleagues ✧
Finding My Voice
“I came to Valerie for voice training after years of not singing, with little confidence and no clue where to begin finding my voice again. Valerie taught me vocal technique, but more than that, she taught me that my voice was worth finding. I am now a full-time singer and voice coach, and it is not an overstatement to say it is because of Valerie Day. You will not find a more present, knowledgeable, or giving human to help you discover the song you were born to sing.”
–Ara Lee James: Singer, Songwriter, Vocal Coach
Life Changing
“Before I met Valerie, I felt like a singer trapped inside a cage. Through her mentoring, I learned how to release the melodic sounds pulsing just beneath the surface. Valerie's approach combines technique with philosophy; her students gain an intimate knowledge of how and why, which inspires confidence and purpose. Valerie changed my life, not only as a singer and artist but as a human being.”
–Sarah Farrell Mackessy: Singer, Bassist, Events Producer
Transformative
“Valerie is a brilliant artist who uses her extensive teaching skills to transform voices, open hearts, and change lives. Her deep understanding of vocal technique is matched by an appreciation for the many ways we learn and a willingness to meet every student where they are and nurture their potential to develop into the best version of themselves.”
–Darrell Grant, Musician, Educator
Got My Voice Back
“I had an issue with my voice, acute laryngitis. I found Valerie Day, who did everything to get my voice back. After she explained how to breathe correctly and protect the voice, I sang without any issues. Her patience and love of vocals have me calling her my Sensai. I will forever be grateful and have pure love for Valerie. Thank you, Sensai!”
–Arlene Stevenson, Singer
Compassionate
“I've gained so much awareness and skill while working with Valerie. Not only is she an expert technician of the vocal instrument, but her compassionate approach also addresses all of the psychological processes of being a singer and musician. She is hands down one of the most cherished teachers of my lifetime, and I can't sing her praises enough! (pun intended!)”
–Stephanie Schneiderman, Singer, Songwriter, Educator
A Mentor & Friend
“Valerie Day has been a friend, mentor, and vocal instructor for many years. Her guidance with my vocal technique has helped me immeasurably. As a result, the quality and range of my voice have improved, and so has my performance as a vocalist. With the knowledge and confidence Valerie has given me, she’s changed my life for the better.”
–Blake Sakamoto, Singer, Keyboardist, Band Leader
Thoughtful & Creative
"Valerie is a respected, accomplished musician. She has been an obvious choice as a go-to guest speaker in my Business of Music course at Portland State University. The unexpected bonus comes from her wonderful style of presenting to the class. Valerie generously opens up her life to the students in a thoughtful, personal manner and utilizes her experiences as examples for the students to draw upon. She goes further by incorporating current ideas and resources that educate and inspire. The students often cite her presentation throughout the term, underscoring her impact on their learning. Her thoughtfulness and creativity come through with shining colors. I always love having her in my class!"
–Denise Westby, Musician, Educator
So Very Grateful
“Valerie was crucial to my development as a solo artist and songwriter. When I first met her, I was studying classical music but sang in bands and wanted to start writing my own songs. I just didn't know how to get out of the narrow parameters I was used to. She gave me the direction and guidance I needed to see beyond my current limits and learn a healthy technique that has absolutely saved me now as a pop singer. I am so very grateful I had the chance to study with her!”
–Celeste Amadee: Singer, Songwriter & Record Producer
