Performing
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"I have had the distinct privilege of collaborating with Ariel May on a number of projects, which have encompassed a variety of musical genres, including jazz, pop, and classical. Ariel brings a wealth of knowledge and creative talent to all of her live performances and recording projects. Both my recording engineer, who has worked with the most well known names in music, and I are truly amazed at her warm tone, beautiful phrasing, and excellent pitch. In every way, Ariel is the consummate professional."
- Ed Bergstrom, Jazz Pianist, Los Angeles |
Teaching
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“Ariel was my voice teacher for two years and I have never known a more passionate, knowledgeable, empathetic and loving soul than her! Because of her extraordinary wisdom and dedication to her students, I was able to attend the college of my dreams with her encouragement and help! Ariel has invested her heart and soul to build me (and so many others) up and help us reach our full potential as musicians and human beings as well! I am proud of the person and musical artist I am today because of the hope and dedication she gave to me.”
- Christina Foley, Singersongwriter, Nashville |
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Conducting
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“Ariel May is one of the finest choral conductors of her generation. Her attention to detail, her positive approach, her love for the music, and her inspirational leadership in guiding her singers to a true understanding and personal identification with each piece of music is unparalleled. From a pianist’s perspective, she is a joy to work with. I can’t recommend her highly enough!”
- Carolyn Rugh M.M., Pianist |
Songwriting Lessons
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"Working with Ariel was a lot of fun! I’ve scheduled several sessions with her to write songs for different celebratory occasions. Ariel is gifted at holding space in a way that allowed me to tap into my creativity and be vulnerable in order to write songs that moved me to tears. She has extensive experience songwriting and singing, and it really shows. Not to mention she is a truly humble and kind soul with a beautiful voice."
- Maria Turner-Lloveras, LCSW |
Self-Compassion & Somatic Work
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"Ariel May is one of the most beautiful humans I have ever met in this life. Her kindness and loving soul is so infectious. The way she moved and how gentle she was during our session made me feel safe and seen under her care. There are honestly not enough words to describe my healing session with her. She is one of the kindest, sweetest and gentlest healers I have ever had the pleasure to work with. l highly recommend her and her gifts as she is such a special soul!"
- Ariel Mann, Healer, Artist, Producer |
Teaching
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“Through her compassion for her students, dedication to the craft, and focus on building healthy technique, Ariel helped me rediscover my passion for music. As a young adult, she gave me the confidence in myself to pursue a degree in music and continued to be a lifelong supporter. Ariel is not just a teacher, but a mentor, role model, and friend.”
Timothy Cunningham- composer, vocalist, pianist www.timothycunninghamcomposer.com |
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"Ariel is genuinely one of the most memorable and influential teachers that I’ve ever had. She had a confident, yet loving teaching style that I really resonated with, and I still carry so much of her lessons with me, even years later. She is a huge reason why I have such a deep connection with the music industry and one of the biggest reasons I decided that I wanted to pursue being an independent artist. Because of her, I decided to attend Chapman University’s College of Performing Arts as a Music Major."
Audrey Huynh- songwriter, actor IMDB |
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"The most valuable thing about being Ariel’s student was having a space where I was able to grow my passion for music. I was able to learn and develop skills that help me just about every day, both with my singing and in my personal life. She helped me build the confidence to pursue music and helped me gain a broad knowledge of all aspects of the art."
- Mason Ortiz, Alternative Citizens: lead vocalist, guitarist, songwriter |
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"Ariel May creates an all inclusive and rigorous space where she values diversity within the classroom. She teaches useful musicianship skills that create an intelligent musician, while also creating a space where students can explore their creativity through expression.” - Bryce Rivera, B.A. Choral Music Education student www.bryceriveraofficial.com |
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"Ariel really helped me foster my love for music and singing, as well as teaching me a number of life lessons. After 4 years, I left not only as a better musician and singer, but as a kinder and more confident person! I truly couldn't have asked for a better teacher!" - Megan Beehler, B.A. Psychology student, songwriter |
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“Ariel was the reason I got into music and stayed in it. The way she ran her classroom was so perfect that I hope to make mine like it someday. She was caring and compassionate while always pushing us to do our best. She is my role model and has inspired and encouraged me to be confident in who I am and who I want to be.” - Charlize Esquilla, B.M. Music Education, student teacher |
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“There is something so special about working with someone who will always be your #1 supporter! I had the honor of working with Ariel throughout high school and even went back to college just to work with her. She took the time to ensure we understood the full embodiment of the pieces with ease. Anytime I had an insecurity, question, or comment, she was there with insight that helped me in my music journey and in my self appreciation journey, too. There is never a dull moment, just growth and enthusiasm!”
-Michaela Narehood, Disneyland Employee |
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“The qualities I remember most about Ariel were her professionalism, fairness, and uplifting attitude. As a teacher, she valued every student’s voice, and made sure each singer felt seen. Her students reflected a diversity of abilities, races, and queer identities, and she provided a safe place for many individuals that would otherwise be marginalized. As an active musician today, I use the vocal and musicianship tools that I learned with her.”
- Tabitha Martinez, The Cecelias: lead vocalist, songwriter, guitarist |
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Conducting
“Ariel is an effective and skilled choral conductor. I have experienced her excellent conducting in rehearsal, performance, choral clinics, and choral workshops. Her conducting is musical, expressive, and emotionally connected. Her advanced understanding of vocal pedagogy produces resonant choral tone that is balanced and blended. Ariel's concerts are an experience in beautiful music sung beautifully, touching the heart and feeding the soul.”
- John Tebay, Director of Choral Activities Emeritus, Fullerton College
- John Tebay, Director of Choral Activities Emeritus, Fullerton College
“With her beautifully expressive and passionate conducting, Ariel draws out the most exquisite and rich tone from her singers. And she always manages to get them to look as inspiring as they sound! It is simply a joy to watch and listen to ensembles under her direction.”
- Stacy Oh, Choral Conductor
Check out more work by my students:
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