Back in 1988, when I first started teaching private voice and piano lessons (yes, that long ago!), I used to write, design, and mail—with actual stamps—newsletters to my students. It was my way of keeping everyone in the loop, celebrating achievements, and offering guidance between lessons.

Well, I’ve decided to bring it back—minus the postage! This monthly newsletter will now live right here on the blog, so you’ll always know what’s happening in the Zona Studio and how you can stay inspired and moving forward in your musical journey.

Let’s get to it, shall we?

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🎭 Spotlight On: The NATS NYC Student Auditions

The National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) has scheduled the New York City District Student Auditions for:

📅 Sunday, November 9th
📍 Teachers College, Columbia University, Manhattan

These auditions are open to middle school through adult singers across all experience levels. What makes it especially fabulous? You can enter in more than one category—including:

🎶 Classical
🎶 Musical Theatre
🎶 Contemporary Commercial Music (CCM)

This is a great opportunity to perform, receive professional adjudication, and connect with a community of passionate singers.

👉 For full details and rules, visit: natsnyc.org/studentauditions

If you’re interested, let’s talk in your lesson—or feel free to contact me. November 9th is around the corner, so if we haven’t selected your repertoire yet… let’s get to it!

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🌟 Celebrating Spring Student Successes

This past spring, I had the immense joy of watching several of my current and former students shine:

🎤 Christine Fahey, Craig Flickinger, Marianne Carey Hayes, and Dally Ourman delivered powerful and heartfelt performances in a cabaret concert at the Bronxville Library. This was the final showcase of the cabaret class I taught at Bronxville Adult School. Their vulnerability and storytelling through song were so moving!

🎓 Mia Sundquist and Kelly Fezza gave a polished and emotionally resonant joint recital—a fitting send-off for Mia as she headed off to Holy Cross for college. What a beautiful cap to her time in the studio.

Brava and bravo to all of you! You continue to inspire me and the entire Zona Studio family.

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🎉 Welcome, New Students!

We’re thrilled to welcome two fantastic new students this fall:

🎶 Cooper Caruso – A junior at Bronxville School, Cooper is a singer, actor, and bass in the school choir. He’s diving into both voice AND piano lessons—go big or go home!

🎭 Lila Wahl – A 7th grader and true triple threat: dancer, singer, actor. She’ll be starting her lessons next week, and I can’t wait to explore her talents.

Welcome to the studio, Cooper and Lila!

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💡 4 Ways the Zona Studio Can Support Your Musical Journey

Whether you’re currently taking lessons or just checking in to stay inspired, here are four ways I’m here to help you grow as a musician, performer, and artist:

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1. 🎹 Online Courses for Singers & Musicians

Level up your musicianship and performance skills with these self-paced online courses:

• Sing & Play Bootcamp – Learn essential piano skills for beginners.

• Piano Savvy for Singers – A deeper dive into piano technique for singers.

• Sight Singing Made Simple – Gain confidence reading and singing music at first sight.

• Audacious Auditioning – Master the mindset and tools to walk into any audition prepared.

• Robust Role Preparation – Build your characters and songs with depth and clarity.

🎁 Enroll in more than one course and automatically receive 10% off.
💡 Current Zona Studio students: reach out for your exclusive 10% coupon code!

👉 Browse courses: thezonastudio.com/online-courses

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2. 📺 Weekly YouTube Videos

My YouTube channel is packed with value for singers of all levels. I post 3 new videos every week, covering:

• Vocal technique & musicianship

• Career and mindset advice

• Behind-the-scenes of my own performances

There are even videos of me singing opera, art song, and cabaret! Subscribe and stay inspired.

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3. ✍️ The Zona Studio Blog

You’re already here—so take a look around! My blog is home to tons of posts on:

• Singing and piano technique

• Practice strategies

• Artist mindset and motivation

• Career development for singers

📚 Explore more here: thezonastudio.com/blog

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4. 💼 Singer Savvy Academy: For Career-Oriented Singers

For those who dream of going full-time in music, Singer Savvy Academy is your next step. It’s the entrepreneurial arm of my business, designed to help you:

• Define your brand and artistry

• Build a financially sustainable singing career

• Learn marketing, networking, and business strategy tailored to performers

👉 Learn more: singersavvyacademy.com

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🎵 Looking Ahead

I’m so excited for the year ahead—new goals, new music, and new opportunities to grow together.

Thank you for being part of the Zona Studio family. Whether you’re preparing for a recital, gearing up for auditions, or simply staying connected through these newsletters, know that I’m here cheering you on.

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I’m here for your success,
Dr. Regina Zona