Akela Franklin
Soprano
Vocal Teaching Artist
Progressive Performing Artist
Alexander Technique Teacher in Training
PRIVATE STUDIO
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Hey there! My name is Akela (Uh-Kay-Luh) and my pronouns are she/they (no preference as to which one you use!). I am a classically trained singer, vocal pedagogue, children's music and theatre educator, and arts administrator (among other things). I'm originally from the California Bay Area, and now I live and work in Boston, Massachusetts. When I'm not teaching from my private studio, you can find me at Community Music Center of Boston (CMCB) and Brookline Music School teaching private voice and early childhood & elementary small group classes. At CMCB, I also serve as the Faculty Instructional Lead for both the Early Childhood/Elementary and Voice departments.
A little bit more about my background: I first became enamored with vocal pedagogy a few years back while I was completing my bachelor's degree in vocal performance. I've always been interested in anatomy and physiology, but studying it in the context of singing was just mind blowing. The human voice is so powerful and complex, and being able to gain a greater understanding of its scientific function was simply exhilarating for me. I decided then that I wanted to devote a large part of my career to develop creative, exciting ways to impart this knowledge to my very own voice students.
In 2016, I moved to Boston to pursue a masters degree in vocal performance at Longy School of Music. I continued to take courses to expand my pedagogical knowledge, got a graduate assistantship as a teaching fellow for Boston City Singers, and most importantly, I came to understand the importance of prioritizing creativity and joy in all aspects of my artistic life. I realized the dream of opening my own private studio in February of 2018, and I've kept at it ever since. Before settling into my current roles at CMCB and BMS, I was fortunate to teach for several amazing local arts organizations, including Youth and Family Enrichment Services, Children's Music Center of Jamaica Plain, and First Unitarian Universalist Society in Newton (FUUSN).
In addition to teaching, I regularly sing as a substitute section leader, soloist, cantor, and soprano ringer for faith-based congregations, choral societies, or other vocal projects in the New England area. As of September 2022, I'll be joining the staff at Park Avenue Congregational Church in Arlington as the choir's new permanent soprano section leader and soloist!
When I'm not singing or teaching, I'm training to be an Alexander Technique teacher at Boston Conservatory at Berklee. I also enjoy cooking, traveling, experiencing live music and theatre, going to museums, whale watching, learning about weird history, listening to true crime podcasts, spending time with family and friends, getting better at ukulele, and snuggling with my cats Éowyn and Bartleby.
Education
M.M. Vocal Performance, 2018
Longy School of Music of Bard College
B.M. Vocal Performance, 2015
University of Puget Sound
Alexander Technique Teaching Certificate, 2024*
Boston Conservatory at Berklee
*projected grad date.
Studio Principles
I will empower my students and help them achieve their vocal goals by encouraging healthy, free phonation.
I will teach a science-based vocal technique through creative imagery, observation of sensation, and experimentation with different types of emotional expression.
I will always meet every student where they are and will tailor my instructional approach to complement individual learning needs. One method does NOT fit all.
I will aim to elevate the pursuit of joy, levity, and ease in every lesson.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you need to be to take voice lessons?
I have experience teaching singers of all ages, from kindergarteners to retirees. I truly believe everyone deserves to find joy and empowerment through singing, regardless of age or skill level. I currently accept new students ages 5 and up. As CMCB's early childhood faculty instructional lead, I spend a lot of time teaching children under 10, so don't be afraid to enroll your little ones!
How much do private lessons cost?
It depends on the length and type of the lesson you select. Lessons can cost anywhere from $30 to $70 per session. Click here to view pricing breakdowns, payment plans, and available discounts.
Is it ok to take voice lessons just for fun?
Uh, yes! I hope everyone takes lesson for fun, whether you're a "serious" singer or not. Your lesson belongs to you. You set your own goals and boundaries - I'm just there to guide you and give professional feedback.
Do you offer other types of lessons?
Yes! I also provide music theory tutoring and dramatic coaching sessions. Click here to learn more about my offerings. I may even start to offer beginning ukulele lessons soon as my own skills continue to improve :)
What if I'm not a classical singer? Can I still study with you?
Absolutely! I welcome singers of all ages and musical backgrounds. I have training in multiple vocal areas, and I love singing musical theatre and jazz as well as opera. Plus, knowing how to sing healthfully is important within all genres.
What should I expect from a first lesson with you?
For new students, I usually implement my trial lesson package, which includes 2 discounted (or free) lessons at the length of your choice. This gives the two of us to "try out" our teacher-student relationship before committing longterm. Depending on how long the lessons are, we will typically spend the first lesson getting to know each other and doing some light vocalises. The second lesson will function more like a regularly weekly lesson - full physical and vocal warm up, plus introductory work on your choice of repertoire (I'll typically ask you to bring in a song that you already know and feel comfortable singing in front of people). Learn more in my policy document (see next tile).
My favorite singing artists (starting upper left): Julie Andrews, Jamie Barton, Rosemary Clooney, Freddie Mercury, Kiri Te Kanawa, Tituss Burgess & Andrew Rannells, and Billie Holiday.
Testimonials
Deb J.
Adult Student
I went into voice lessons with Akela as a true beginner - I was sure I could never hold a tune, but I wanted to try. Akela made the lessons fun and she had endless patience with me. She taught me how to breathe correctly and how to coordinate my muscles to "use my instrument" effectively. With her help, I reached my goal: being able to sing a simple song (mostly) in tune. I am forever grateful and highly recommend her.
Jessica C.
Parent of a 13 year old singer
Akela has been teaching my daughter since 2019. From day one, she connected with her personally and shaped the singing lessons to speak to my daughter's interests, build on her strengths, and both challenge and support areas where she wanted to grow. Akela brings her musical and teaching talents, as well as a personal touch that make each music session special. I highly recommend her.
Eliana J.
Adult Student
Akela is the most personal and engaged singing teacher I have had throughout my 17 years of singing lessons. Her unique teaching technique incorporates emotions, thought, and imagination as core elements of vocal development. Akela innately understands not only my vocal anatomy but also my personality, and she can therefore determine which emotions and thoughts are best suited to develop my voice. Since I began studying with Akela, singing well has not only become easier-- it's also so much more fun!
Look & Listen
2019 lesson with student Deb J. See more singing videos on her blog, Sixty to Sixty!
""Baby Beluga" by Raffi
Feat. Mattahunt Elementary School 2019 Summer Academy singers
Playing the improvisatory "filter game" during a 2021 virtual lesson with 5 year old student.
On Zoom with CMCB's Musical Theatre Performance class for kids ages 7 to 12, Spring 2021.