Curiosity first
We address the music you actually want to perform, and cater our sessions to building toward your goals in a way that works specifically for you.
About the studio
Hi, I'm Zak, and I believe that music is for everybody.
Do you want to express yourself through music? Build your confidence in speech and singing? Or push further on skills you already have?
Music Mammoth is a one-person studio. Everything is run by me, which means your student never gets handed off to a rotating roster of instructors.
I have a Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point and a Master of Music degree from the University of South Dakota. Performance is a big part of my life. I have performed in musicals and in five operas, one of which was in Italy with musicians from across the globe. I have also been a paid soloist for multiple orchestra concerts. During Graduate school, I discovered my love and passion for teaching music. I have taught voice lessons to many individuals, and I would love to share my musical knowledge with anyone who is looking to grow. Offering a relaxed and inviting teaching environment is very important to me since no student should ever feel uncomfortable about bettering themselves.
Why I teach
Music is best when it is shared with others. I love teaching because I can experience and grow in music with my students as equals. Everyone's relationship with music is different, unique, and fascinating at the same time. It's important for people to explore their creativity; this is what keeps us in touch with ourselves. I love helping people to enhance that relationship with themselves, because expression is a beautiful thing. No prior experience is required; I am more than happy to help anyone at any level.
A few highlights
The training and performances behind the teaching.
College
B.M. in vocal performance at the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point
Summer 2024
Performed in Mozart's The Magic Flute as part of the International Lyric Academy in Vicenza, Italy
Grad school
M.M., vocal performance and pedagogy - University of South Dakota
2025
Winner, USD concerto/aria competition - performed "Il Padre Adorato" (Mozart) with the USD Symphony Orchestra, Aalfs Auditorium
How I teach
Healthy technique
This is universal for all singers - we work on a foundation you can carry with you through life, one that works for every style of singing.
Progress you can hear
On request, I can record clips of our lessons or of you performing, so you can listen back as part of your musical development. I also send a debrief after every session by email and Google Docs, so you can track your progress and look back for extra guidance.
Clear and varied
It's important to me that every student understands the material being taught. It's my honor to work with each student according to their individual needs, and I'm happy to repeat material as needed for progress. I also love to bring variety and fun to our lessons - the goal is for it to feel less like a classroom and more like a collaboration.
Credentials
Formal training, ongoing study, and a lot of hours in a room with students.
B.A., Vocal Performance
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
M.A., Vocal Performance & Pedagogy
University of South Dakota
2+ years of teaching experience
Voice students of many types, ages 5 through 85
Choral and ensemble direction
Community and school ensembles, plus accompaniment work
Background-checked and insured
Documentation available to families on request
Your first lesson is on me!
Let's meet and discuss your musical goals to see if this is the right fit for you.