Voices of Darlington is a welcoming singing community offering adult choirs, children’s choirs, singing lessons, vocal coaching and workshops in and around Darlington. Vocal Coach and Director, Vocal Health First Aider - Claire Willmer
Claire teaches students of all ages offering good foundations in vocal technique, performance technique and confidence. Claire uses a range of researched techniques to come up with a healthy, balanced teaching style, regularly attending training and finding things that work easily in a working and performing environment. Claire is a professional singer and this helps her to explore techniques that are applicable and usable. Claire began singing in an Accapella choir at 12 which went on to do a small tour of Germany which sparked her interested in the beauty of voice. After years of performing as a young girl - including solo performances for Tony Blair in 2000 and a song writing mentorship in 2002, she went on to train in a Performance Degree. There, Claire received 3 years of training in the Lessac method, taught by Katerina Moraitis, renowned course leader at Central School of Speech and Drama and The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA). After graduating with a degree in Performance and then being a professional singer herself for a number of years, Claire began her career in vocal coaching after running a successful season of baby and toddler singing and music sessions with nationally acclaimed 'Tiny Mites Music' group. Claire subsequently began teaching for children at Stagecoach Theatre Arts School in Darlington and Yarm in 2011 where she still remains a loyal teacher; teaching in Main Schools, Early Stages, Further Stages and STARE. Claire also runs her very successful studio where she offers tuition on a one to one or small group basis. Claire is one of very few teachers in the region who offer training in LAMDA Musical Theatre Grades, with 100% pass rate with Merit and Distinction. She also has excellent success with Trinity Rock and Pop Vocal Grades, too. Claire says, "Teaching singing isn't just about helping people sing songs. It is about training the voice, the person, the soul. Knowing how to use your voice is so important in all aspects of your life and the skills carry forward to so many careers." Voices of Darlington groups and choirs were initially set up in 2015 to offer adults the opportunity to develop their voice and learn to sing whilst meeting new friends. It has then flourished into various groups and choirs starting at just age 4. Classes are now aimed at of all ages and capabilities. Voices of Darlington has helped raise £20,000+ for various charities and community events over the years through concerts and performances. Claire is now a renowned and respected teacher in the County Durham area, hosting voice workshops for various companies and running a very successful home studio. Claire is a qualified Vocal Health First Aider. Join Voices of Darlington, see your confidence grow, and let them hear your voice!
