About the Studio

Andersen Vocal Arts was started in the Tri-State area in 2001 by Sandra Andersen. AVA specializes in giving individual training that strengthens and develops the voice for a lifetime of healthy singing in all genres of music. We teach students of all ages and vocal backgrounds. We also give specific training in diction and performing techniques to enhance your talents and refine your stage presence.

AVA's teaching is based on what is known as the Swedish-Italian School of Singing. This technique has developed some of the greatest singers the world has ever known with long, healthy careers such as Kirsten Flagstad, Birgit Nilsson, Jussi Björling, Marilyn Horne and Montseratt Caballé, just to name a few. From the exercises and concepts taught in this school, singers are able to develop full, strong voices that are free, feel open and relaxed. The technique promotes longevity and endurance with beauty of sound and reveals each singers true voice, which is sometimes very different than the one with which they start.

One of AVA's specialties is preparing students for auditions of all kinds. There is a special emphasis put on the preparation for an audition and attention to each detail of that kind of audition. Many students from AVA have won top scholarships and awards because of this meticulous preparation and vast understanding of what auditions entail.

See what former students have to say about AVA and Sandra Andersen:

To sum it up succinctly, Sandra Andersen's teaching style is all about healthy, effortless, and beautiful vocal production. Her level of professionalism is matched only by her genuine care and personal attention to each of her students throughout their vocal development. Any good vocalist knows how hard and frustrating singing can be at times, but with Sandra, it is always a joy.

Laura Muller, professional classical singer, Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance, Lawrence Conservatory

My study with Sandra Andersen has had a tremendous impact on my development. Her intimate grasp of practical vocal technique coupled with her vast knowledge of repertoire and her enthusiastic and encouraging personality and teaching philosophy, have given me the tools to begin my journey of becoming the best performing artist I can be.

Matt Richardson, professional opera and musical theatre singer, Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance, The Eastman School of Music

Sandra makes singing so easy. Techniques are broken down into simple concepts and ideas that are then conveyed to the student in ways that are appropriate. The basic approach is, 'If it doesn't feel right, it isn't!' Sandra is a phenomenal teacher who prepares each of her students for both the technical and artistic aspects of a performance. She works very hard and wants each of her students to succeed. Not a single student walks through her door that does not leave a more accomplished singer!

Steve Leifker, voice student at Wartburg College

One of the greatest aspects of learning from Sandra is that she cares not only about sound, but also about how singing feels. She customizes her teaching methods to the needs of each individual student and is always able to easily convey what can often be difficult concepts to understand.

As a former member of the AVA Studio, I benefited from many opportunities I would not normally have experienced until college, such as:

  • Two operetta performances,
  • A full senior recital,
  • Mock college auditions.

Sandra is a phenomenal teacher who fully covers every imaginable aspect of a performance so that her students are prepared for any opportunities which may and often do come their way.

Sarah Zach, Voice Performance major at Lawrence Conservatory

Sandra has made my voice into what it is today. She taught me not only how to explore the full depth of my voice, but how to do it in the RIGHT way. Her meticulous, yet always positive work ethic and incredible knowledge of her field are by far the best in her area. Sandra has helped me win a full scholarship to college as well as placing at the Iowa NATS competitions. A chance to study with her is an incredible opportunity that should not be passed up!

Luke Viertel, Voice Performance major at Coe College, Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre Young Artist