Voice Lessons ABQ with Marilyn Thomas Bernard

Private Classical Voice Lessons

Voice Lessons in Albuquerque

Study classical singing through private voice lessons focused on breath management, clear tone, vocal coordination, and musical expression. Whether you are beginning voice study, returning to singing, or refining established skills, lessons build on your experience and the way your voice works.

Marilyn Thomas Bernard teaches adults and students at every level in her Albuquerque home studio. Each lesson offers individual attention to the technical and musical skills that help you sing with greater control, ease, and understanding.

$60 per lessonAdults & StudentsIn-person lessons

Monday–Saturday, by appointment

Marilyn Thomas Bernard, classical voice teacher in Albuquerque

Private Voice Lessons

In one-on-one classical voice lessons, students learn how breathing, posture, resonance, and tone work together. Instruction starts with the singer's current abilities and develops technique alongside musicianship and interpretation.

Beginner Voice Lessons

For singers with no formal training

Begin with the fundamentals of classical singing: breathing for singing, posture, pitch accuracy, and clear, unforced tone. Lessons introduce the coordination involved in singing and give you a practical foundation for learning songs and musical phrasing.

Intermediate Voice Lessons

For singers with some training behind them

Build on previous lessons or singing experience with more detailed work on breath coordination, consistency across the range, resonance, and phrasing. Classical songs and arias provide opportunities to apply technique and develop musical interpretation.

Advanced & Professional Voice Lessons

For trained and performing classical singers

Advanced lessons examine the finer points of vocal coordination, tone, phrasing, and interpretation in classical repertoire. Individual work can address technical challenges and preparation for recitals, auditions, or performances.

Adult Singing Lessons

For adults beginning, returning, or continuing

Adult students are welcome whether they are taking their first voice lesson, returning after time away, or continuing established study. Lessons address the needs of each singer, from developing reliable technique to working on classical repertoire and musical expression.

High School Voice Lessons & All-State Audition Preparation

For Albuquerque high school singers

High school singers can work on classical vocal fundamentals, audition repertoire, musicianship, and performance preparation. Lessons may include New Mexico All-State auditions, vocal competitions, and solo performances, with attention to age-appropriate technique.

Meet Marilyn Thomas Bernard

Marilyn Thomas Bernard has taught voice since 1968. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in vocal performance from Tulane University and has worked as both a classical singer and an educator. Her teaching emphasizes individual attention, thoughtful technique, and musical understanding.

Her years of teaching and choral direction inform an approach that meets each singer at their current level. Rather than following a fixed lesson plan, she works with students on the technical questions and repertoire most relevant to their development.

In her Albuquerque studio, Marilyn works with adult beginners, returning singers, students, and experienced classical vocalists.

Lesson Questions

Who can take voice lessons with Marilyn?

Adults, college students, and high school students, from complete beginners to experienced classical singers.

Do I need any singing experience?

No. Beginners are welcome, as are singers returning after time away. Lessons begin with your current experience and goals.

Does Marilyn teach pop music?

No. Marilyn's studio is dedicated to classical voice, and lessons and repertoire are classical.

Can high school students prepare for All-State auditions?

Yes. High school lessons can focus on New Mexico All-State auditions, competitions and solo performances, including audition repertoire, technique and performance confidence.

How much do voice lessons cost?

Private lessons are $60 per lesson.

Where are lessons held?

In person, by appointment, at Marilyn's private home studio in Albuquerque.

How do I get started?

Send a message using the form below, or call 505.604.2425 or 505.897.9324. A few words about your singing experience and your goals is all she needs to begin.

Interested in Voice Lessons?

Tell Marilyn a little about your singing experience, what you would like to work on, or any questions you have about lessons.

You may also call for an appointment:
505.604.2425 or 505.897.9324

Name *

Thank You for Your Interest

Available 6 days/week
Monday - Saturday

The full record: education, honors, and more than five decades of teaching and directing.

Education

  • 1964-68 Bachelor of Arts Newcomb College of Tulane University
  • 1968-70 Master of Fine Arts in vocal performance Tulane University
  • 1970-73 Summer scholarship student Berkshire Music Festival

Achievements

  • Worldwide Lifetime Achievement Marquis Who's Who Inductee, 2017
  • Outstanding Teaching Award Albuquerque Academy Recipient, 2009
  • Who's Who of American Women Marquis Who's Who Featured Listee, 2004-05
  • Art's Award Amistad Research Center Recipient, 1993
  • Centennial Award for Outstanding Achievement Tulane University Recipient, 1986
  • Honoree, Outstanding Woman State of Louisiana

Experience

  • Private voice studio Owner (2009 – Present)
  • New Mexico Symphonic Youth Chorus Co-founder and Artistic Director (2016-20)
  • Albuquerque Youth Symphony Chorus (grades 9-12) Founding director (2009-13)
  • Albuquerque Youth Symphony Junior Chorus (grades 7-9) Founding director (2009-13)
  • Albuquerque Academy Dept. Head Performing Arts Chair (1997-2013)
  • Albuquerque Academy Choral Director (1992-2013)
  • Isidore Newman School (New Orleans, LA) Choral Director (1977-92)
  • Tulane University & Southern University Adjunct Professor/Voice, accompanist (1976-77)
  • Xavier University Associate Professor – Voice & music history (1970-76)
  • Tulane University Teaching Assistant/Voice instructor, accompanist (1968-70)