We recently connected with Christa Pfeiffer and have shared our conversation below.
Christa, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
As a child, one would usually find me hiding behind my mother’s skirt until I had something to play or sing. Music slowly brought me out of my shell and I thrived playing the flute and singing. I was very fortunate to have parents who encouraged and supported my passion for music. There was never any question that music would be number one in my life’s journey. I initially thought I would be an orchestral flutist but once I had the opportunity to sing in some opera scenes I was hooked on classical singing. My public high school education in Oakland was supplemented with Saturday classes and the SF Conservatory of Music and I received a Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance from Eastman School of Music. I recognized that my voice and my temperament weren’t quite right for a professional solo operatic career and my voice teacher felt I would be a great teacher and began sending me her overflow of students. The balance of having a voice studio and continuing to have solo and choral gigs was perfect. I haven’t looked back. I find an incredible amount of pleasure helping others find confidence and joy through learning to breathe and sing. People asked me in my 20’s when I was going to find a “real job”. This is real.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I teach private voice lessons with over 20 years of experience. My aim is to help my students sing in the most free, natural and expressive manner by teaching them a technique that incorporates optimal breathing, body alignment, and purity of vowel. I feel that these ideas form a strong foundation that can be used in any musical style as well as public speaking. Most importantly, I offer a safe place for individuals to express themselves without judgement. This encourages vulnerability and increases confidence which is key to “finding one’s voice”. I accept students of all experience levels who are 13 years and older. I also teach interpretation, performance practice, diction, audition preparation and sight-reading depending on the needs of each individual. I have studio recitals biannually which give students the opportunity to perform in a very supportive environment.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I would have to say perseverance, gratitude and self-acceptance have all played important parts in my journey. Early on, there was a lot of trial and error and sometimes it was hard to pick myself up and keep going. Take the time you need to recoup after a disappointment and then get back to it. Be sure you are following your dream and not anyone else’s. Be kind to yourself and others.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
My number one challenge that I am currently facing is that my voice has changed a lot now that I am in menopause. I am turning down gigs as a result and that brings me a lot of sadness. To resolve these feelings I am working on new repertoire that suits my voice better and looking for alternative performing opportunities. I have also started harp lessons as another outlet for music making. I meditate, go on walks walks with my dog, garden and knit and all of those things help with my mental health as I face the challenges of aging.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.christapfeiffer.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbTG0kXqGvE
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/christa-pfeiffer-voice-studio-san-rafael
Image Credits
Reenie Raschke
