Student Success
Studio member Francis Jue w Jennifer Lim The World of Extreme Happiness - MTC.
Every artist enters the studio with a different voice, background, and set of goals. I am grateful to have worked with performers at many stages of their journeys—from those taking their first voice lessons to seasoned professionals sustaining careers on Broadway and beyond.
Their stories reflect the courage, curiosity, and commitment they bring to the work. I’m proud to share some of their experiences in their own words.
Your Story Begins Where You Are
Growth looks different for every artist. Whether you are building a foundation, preparing for your next opportunity, or looking for renewed freedom in your work, I would be honored to support you along the way.
Established performers
Established performers often come to the studio seeking greater freedom, consistency, and resilience while meeting the demands of an active career. Our work provides a supportive space to address technical challenges, maintain vocal health and stamina, explore new material, and keep the instrument responsive through auditions, rehearsals, performances, and an eight-show week.
Francis Jue
(Obie Award Winner, Broadway: Yellow Face, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Pacific Overtures, M. Butterfly, TV: Madam Secretary - CBS, Soft Power, King of the Yees)
“I spent years getting by with what voice I had. I worked consistently, in both musicals and plays, but I always felt like my voice was only barely capable of handling whatever show I was doing. Within my very first lesson, Martin began the process of freeing my voice from restrictions and wear-and-tear. His practice is customized to my needs, and the results have been quick! I’m singing and speaking with so much more ease, range, and expression now. After 30 years in the biz, I feel more resilient and I sound better than ever. Thank you, Martin.”
Francis Jue as The Engineer in Miss Saigon at North Shore.
Yassmin Alers
(Broadway: The Notebook, On Your Feet, The Rocky Horror Show, The Capeman, Rent. Film: West Side Story, The Ten Commandments, The American Mall, Across the Universe.)
“Martin Sola has an extensive knowledge of the vocal instrument unlike anyone I've ever studied with before. He graciously meets his students where they are in their journey and makes learning healthier techniques easy and a lot of fun. By the end of my lesson, I'm usually in shock by my range and ease of singing. Booking a lesson with him might be challenging because not only is he a teacher, he's actually a much sought after vocalist who is constantly in demand. Martin Sola is one of the few that are in the "Those who can, do AND teach" category.”
Yassmin Alers as Abuela Claudia at Cincinnati Playhouse.
Lydia Gaston
(The King and I - Broadway, Miss Saigon, Shogun - Broadway, Shogun - Broadway)
“Since studying with Martin I have gained clarity and depth in my understanding of the way I sing. I appreciate the specific, individualized approach he uses in working with my voice. Martin's commitment and passion for seamlessly combining vocal technique with artistry have greatly influenced my work as a singer and actor.”
Lydia Gaston as Bloody Mary the Reagle Musical Theater.
Carey Brown
(Ragtime - Broadway, Secret Garden -Denver Center, Sound of Music - National Tour)
"I cannot even begin to express how much I enjoy working with Martín! He is very kind, but also pushes you to produce your best work. He recognizes that not all voices operate in the same way and is able to adjust to each student accordingly, which is such a rare gift!"
Studio member, Carey Rebecca Brown as Lily in Secret Garden at the Denver Center.
Eileen Ward
(King and I National Tour, Olney Theater, Florida Studio Theater, Bristol Riverside, New Harmony, Fords Theater)
"Although I have performed in many musicals, I was never comfortable in singing. Martin took the time with me in each lesson, to explore the reasons why. He listens to your needs and really thinks about what is best for each student. It was quite obvious to me that Martin loves what he does, and wants you to feel the same way. He makes you feel comfortable. And comfort goes a long way when you want to learn to be better at what you do. Thanks Martin!"
Eileen Ward as Mrs. Anna at The Olney.
Julie Henerson
(IMG Model and Actress)
"I am a model and an actress and have been working with Martin for the past year. Working with Martin has given me the confidence to go to the next level in my career. I have worked with many voice teachers and Martin is the only one who has been able to pinpoint the exact areas I needed to work on and gently guide me to improving vocal control in ways I never knew was possible. Martin has given me the tools on how to use my breath as a way go relax during an audition as well as using my breath to empower the full force of my voice."
Albert Christmas
(Ragtime - Broadway, Lights Out -FX, Blue Bloods -CBS)
“Martin takes time to help you confidently find and excel with your own voice. He understands how the vocal mechanism works and he shares this knowledge to help you train and best utilize your voice.”
Albert Christmas in Central Avenue Breakdown at the NYMF in NYC.
TYE ROBERSON
( NYCO, Oklahoma, Dream Girls - Portland Stage, Mozart In The Jungle -Amazon)
"The decision to study with Martin was and is one of the best decisions I have made regarding my career. I met Martin during our working together at New York City Opera. His ability to understand the mechanics of the voice as it relates to singing is amazing, in addition to being a performing artist in his own right. He has his hands on the pulse of what's happening in the business today and has a unique stratagem that participates in singers booking the type of jobs they dream of having."
Tye Roberson in Dream Girls at Portland Center Stage.
Angela L. Owens
Opera Singer (Jazz at Lincoln Center, Chautauqua Institution, l’Opéra National de Paris)
"Martin Sola is an insightful, motivating, nurturing teacher and coach. He gently guided me through a character development for a stage play in New York. As a vocalist, I felt intimidated and insecure about performing dialogue without music. Martin helped me to find truth and simplicity in my delivery without diminishing the complexities and layers of my character. He created a relaxed atmosphere for exploration and really listened to me - it was great working environment. I highly recommend him and hope to work with him again."
Jessica Bowers
Jessica Bowers as Mother Superior at Anchorage Opera.
Operatic Mezzo-Soprano (Anchorage Opera, Utah Opera, Metropolis Opera, Bowers/Fader Duo,)
“I prepared Mother Abbess from "The Sound of Music" with Martin a couple of years ago. I was nervous about the spoken dialogue and felt like I was in a bit of a rut - I didn't know HOW to rehearse it. In our work together, he gave me several different ways to approach line-readings, which helped loosen me up and feel like I could come at it different ways and truly play with it until I found the right way for me. Very much the "teach a man to fish" technique because I could apply it to every scene in that show, and moving forward, I can apply it to other roles, and fabulously - to any songs, arias, and music I study and perform, even in various genres. That is the real strength of the way Martin works - teaching you HOW to work on repertoire.”
Emerging Artist
Every emerging artist brings a unique voice, background, and set of aspirations into the studio. Together, we build a healthy technical foundation, strengthen confidence and artistry, and develop practical tools that support auditions, training opportunities, and the transition into a professional career.
James Hayden Rodriguez
(Man of La Mancha - The Shakespeare Theater, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical - off-Broadway)
"Martín is a gem! Our work together has been amazingly effective in helping me develop my breath support. He has also given me great tools to help me focus on the mechanics of my voice when I am alone. I've been able to apply these mechanics to my pop/rock sensibilities, which has made my work feel more effortless and sustainable."
Studio member, James Hayden Rodriguez in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical on Broadway.
Daniela Delahuerta
(Isla Off-Broadway, Anita in West Side Story (Tibbits Opera House), Diana Morales in A Chorus Line (Roxy Regional), Dora the Explorer in Nick Jr Live! “Move to the Music” (National Tour), and Rebecca, Gloria u/s in On Your Feet (Phoenix Theatre).
“Martín Sola is passionate about teaching! I am always comfortable in our lessons and can trust Martín with my voice. Martín has brought me from only booking ensemble roles to now booking lead roles back to back! My voice is stronger and healthier since taking voice lessons with him. Martín makes our lessons fun and easy to understand. He gives his students the tools to better their voices so that when you go away for a show, you can use them on your own! I recommend his lessons and coaching 100% to anyone who is serious about continuing a career in singing. ”
DILLON HEAPE
(Disney On Classic, Japan)
“Though I am a lifelong singer, voice lessons are something that have befuddled me for a long time. If a teacher is too rigorous or prescriptive, I become too tense to be truly present in the learning process. If things are too conceptual or heady, I can’t grasp hold. When I first met Martín, I immediately knew he was someone with ample technical knowledge to share, but also someone with whom I could be completely at ease in the studio. I began studying with him and immediately my confidence and ability began to amplify before my eyes. Martín has a way of reminding you of what you and your instrument already know, while encouraging you to follow a few key principles of breath, support, and intention that really help your technique begin to take hold. I am so grateful to have met Martín, and I hope he and I work together for many years to come!”
Dillon Heape and the cast of Disney on Classic in Japan.
Kevin Martinez
Actor/Singer (Fraud,Waste and Abuse The Musical - 13th Street Rep., Enter Singing off-off-Broadway)
“There is no other way to say it. I would not be the singer I am today without Martin. Beyond my voice, the greatest thing about Martin is he truly cares, plain and simple. Yes, he wants you to improve your technique. Yes, he wants to teach you proper breathe support. But most importantly, he is a mentor who wants you to succeed and tailors his lessons to the particular way you learn. While it's amazing to learn from someone who is successful himself and you see his methods working, it's more important to put your career in the hands of someone who will have your best interests at heart.”
Elizabeth Scher
(West End Lounge -NYC, Bethesda Summer Music Festival, Imagination Stage - Bethesda)
"Martin has been an absolute joy to work with. He is incredibly supportive of his students. He even provides workshops with casting directors so his students can receive the type of feedback that they might hear in an audition. I have sent many friends to him, and all have loved him."
For the Dancers
For dancers, singing can feel like an exciting but vulnerable new step. I help dancers bring their physical awareness, discipline, and storytelling instincts into their vocal work—developing the technique and confidence needed to move successfully from the dance call to the singing audition. Many have gone on to book featured and principal roles, expanding their opportunities and becoming more versatile, fully integrated performers.
AMANDA CASTRO
(Westside Story ( F. Zambello) - Chicago Lyric Opera, Glimmerglass & Houston Grand Opera, In the Heights - Geva, Modern Dancer - Urban Bushwomen)
“I have been a dancer my entire life and felt the urge to start singing two years ago since I had never done it before. A good friend mentioned that I should work with Martín Solá… and the rest is history! I didn’t want to learn how to sing to get work, I wanted to learn how to express myself as best I could as a performer. Working with Martín, I didn’t just gain a vocal teacher, but a true coach and a mentor. Through this I’ve been working consistently and most importantly confidently. Martin Sola doesn’t just teach you how to sing the song, he gives life long tools to carry the one voice that we’re given."
Amanda Castro as Anita at The Chicago Lyric Opera.
Angelica Beliard
(Broadway - Buena Vista Social Club, On Your Feet!, Donna Summer the Musical, Kiss My Aztec)
“As a dancer, finding my voice has been a journey! Working with Martin has brought such relief to what has been a very intimidating skill to learn. His patience coupled with helpful techniques have enabled me to gain a new sense of breath, feeling the sound, and a basic understanding to allow the voice to move with ease. In addition, Martin has been a great guidance for auditions; Helping me to understand and tell the story of the song, I'm able to give a better sense of who I am as a performer. Thank you Martin for making the process fun and effective!“
Angelica Beliard and the cast of Buena Vista Social Club.
BRETT STURGIS
(A Wonderful World, On Your Feet - Broadway & Holland)
"After years of singing with bands, numerous studio recordings and live stage my voice came to an unpleasant halt. heavy rasp and a fatigued voice was what I was left with. I had a feeling that I needed to go back to the basics even as a professional singer. Martin took me back to an important place which was FOUNDATION. He helped me rediscover my breathing patterns in vocalizing as well as placement of my air, vowels, and consonants that are used in everyday singing. Soon enough my lungs opened back up and my voice started to clear up. Now as I sit here doing an international production I can say my voice came back stronger than it was before it slightly disappeared. Martin definitely fixed my sounds and got it back to strength and clarity."
Brett Sturgis and the cast of A Wonderful World.
Sumie Maeda
(The King and I, Hot Feet - Broadway, South Pacific - National Tour)
“Before working with Martin, I went to a few acting coaches. I’m primarily a dancer and haven’t had much proper acting training, but being a performer I know when the session is working and when it’s not. While I was disappointed in sessions with other coaches, Martin made me feel comfortable right away and I could tell it was going to be a great session. On top of it I was able to book the job! My experience with Martin’s coaching perfectly balances the emotional connection to a character and the technique and control needed to focus the performance. I will definitely go back to him!”
Studio member Sumie Maeda as Liat in South Pacific, Lincoln Center National Tour.
Mariela Dorado
(Dancer, Singer, Actress)
“I still remember how anxious I felt going into my first voice lesson with Martín! As a dancer, singing felt both vulnerable and daunting.
During that initial lesson, Martín led me through a gentle physical warm up before carefully showing me breathing techniques that create a healthy foundation for proper vocal training. But what made this first lesson so unique, was that Martín took the time to get a better understanding of who I was as a person and what my career aspirations looked like. He was professional and knowledgeable, yet extremely personal at the same time which I appreciated. After only that one session, I genuinely felt a difference in my ability to sing. For the first time in my life I felt excited to use my voice!
Before I began taking lessons from Martín, I was at the point in my career where I was making it all the way through the dance calls, but getting cut right after singing. In just shy of 3 months training with Martín, I booked my first musical theater job - as a featured vocal soloist nonetheless! Martín took me from a hopeful student to a confident working professional. He is not only an amazing teacher and mentor, but is also an incredible resource for what is going on in the theater and the commercial industry.
I am a completely different artist and performer today than I was this time last year, and I owe that to Martín. I always say it because it’s true, Martín is the best!”
college and conservatory Prep
The college and conservatory audition process is both an artistic journey and an important personal milestone. I help students identify and present what is distinctive about them through vocal and acting training, repertoire and monologue selection, prescreens, application essays, interviews, and audition preparation—so they can approach each stage of the process with confidence, authenticity, and a clear sense of purpose.
Olivia Coronel
I had worked with Olivia for several years when it came time to begin her college-audition journey. Together, we selected and prepared her material and then filmed and edited each of her prescreen submissions. Olivia was accepted into every program for which she auditioned and ultimately received a full scholarship to pursue her BFA in Theatre at Marymount. She graduated in 2024—a wonderful reflection of her talent, preparation, and commitment to the work.
(On Your Feet! -Broadway, Dora the Explorer - TV Series)
"I met Martin during our time working together in On Your Feet! The Musical. He has been very effective in teaching me proper vocal technique and explaining the mechanics of singing in a way that I have been able to understand. It is clear that he genuinely cares about his students and wants them to succeed. He shares aspects from his own professional journey, which helped me to learn from his experiences. Martin not only teaches you how to be a better singer and performer, he inspires you to do so."
Take the Next Step
Ready to begin? Book a session, bring your goals and questions, and let’s explore what we can accomplish together.