Testimonials
"Stephen Baker is known to me as a leading teacher of singing. Over the years we have had many clients (patients) together and I have always been impressed by the wisdom of Mr Baker's referrals and the care and professional knowledge that Mr Baker brings to bear in his difficult profession."
Dr John Tonkin AM
M.B.B.S., D.L.O., F.R.C.S., F.R.A.C.S
(Ear Nose & Throat Specialist)
"Having known and worked with Stephen for 5 years I have no hesitation in recommending him as an outstanding teacher.
His way of communicating and his interaction with his students is interesting , thorough and motivating.
Having worked in the music industry for 35 years I would definitely send anyone who was looking for vocal coaching
to Stephen.
THERE’S NONE BETTER!"
Rick Grossman
(Hoodoo Gurus / Divynals)
"Stephen's ability as a communicator is second to none. His knowledge of how to get the most out of a voice and to rejuvenate a voice after 8 shows a week is incredible.
Being an extraordinary performer himself, he brings this experience to all those who work with him. His musicality never ceases to impress me and you just know that he cares so much. Onya Stephen”.
Rhonda Burchmore
Music Theatre/Cabaret Performer
“I believe the most important requirements one can possess to be a successful singing teacher, are a solid musical background and experience in the field. Stephen Baker can proudly attest to being more than proficient in both, having worked extensively in all avenue’s of show business.
I’ve known Stephen for over 35 years, and have always been impressed with the energy and dedication he brings to whatever the endeavour.
Stephen has always been successful, and as a singing teacher, I predict many of our future “stars” will look back and thank him for the guidance he gave them with their careers.”
Barry Crocker AM
“I have known and worked with Stephen Baker for over 4 years at JMC Academy. Stephen has been in charge of vocal development and in that time I have grown to be a great believer in Stephen and his teaching technique. He has made vocals at JMC one of the most popular technical classes not only for vocalists but musicians who were interested in singing. He has a great respect amongst the students here at JMC and I have often been totally blown away by the amount of improvement he can achieve with his students. Not only improvement over time but in many cases instant.
His knowledge and experience of vocals in all areas and in particular his expertise in vocal tuition at JMC, recording technique and television and music video production are the many reasons we here at JMC believe totally in Stephen. He has achieved great respect amongst his peers in the music industry and I believe him to be the best vocal teacher in Australia.
Stephen has taken vocal students at JMC to another level with many students gaining confidence in all areas of stagecraft and this has been shown on the many performance nights JMC has presented over the last 4 years. Several students have auditioned for various vocal roles and I know for a fact that they are much more confident with their presentation skills thanks to Stephen.
I have no hesitation in recommending Stephen at the highest possible level.”
Kemo Bunguric B.mus.Ed
Senior Lecturer
Popular Music and Performance
JMC Academy
“Since commencing my vocal training with Stephen Baker my vocal abilities and vocal career have gone from strength to strength. Stephen’s wealth of performing experience and extensive knowledge of the entertainment industry is unsurpassed. His sound advice has enabled me to further my career in the performing arts with confidence”.
Darren Coggan (2001/02 played dual role of ‘Teen Angel & Vince Fontaine in Grease the Mega Musical’, 1999 played principal role of ‘Richie Cunningham in Happy Days, The Arena Mega Musical’, Winner Of Golden Guitar For ‘Vocal Collaboration Of The Year 2001’ Aria Award for ‘Best Country Release Of The Year’, ‘1996 Toyota Star Maker’, ‘1995 Trans Tasman Entertainer Of The Year’)
“Stephen Baker is a superb singer with years of high level, professional performance experience. His knowledge of electronic media and the visual performance skills demanded by the popular music industry makes Stephen an invaluable voice/performance coach for any aspiring young singer.”
Irene Bartlett (M.Mus. Studies-Voice)
Contemporary Voice Specialist
Lecturer in Jazz/Contemporary Voice
Queensland Conservatorium
Griffith University
“I worked with Stephen Baker between 2001-2003 and successfully completed a course which Stephen guided me through week by week.
The first time I met Stephen I was very nervous about singing in front of him by myself, but when I first walked in to his studio surrounded by cd’s of artists he has worked with and photos of him and famous people, I was made to feel very comfortable and in good hands as he was very easy to talk to and just gave me a sense of the experience he had, which alleviated the butterflies.
During my time with Stephen I was taught to use my voice in a more correct manner, which was my biggest problem as it was always strained after gigs and I constantly worried about it, I remember asking Stephen all sorts of crazy questions about my troubles to which he knew all the answers and showed me what I was doing wrong.
Stephen was tough on attention to detail, he could always tell when I had not done enough practice during the week as his ears are sharp to mistakes and would always refuse to take me to the next level until I had mastered the one I was on. SO DON’T TRY AND WING IT!
Now that I have finished the course with Stephen I feel I am well educated on how to look after and maintain my voice, I am extremely happy with the control I have over my voice, the power I can achieve, with half the effort, the range improvement and just the places I can take my voice now that I never thought were there.
I recommend Stephen Baker to anyone that comes to me seeking vocal coaching simply because he is a true professional voice guy!”
Steven Taylor – (Lead Singer/Dreamshifter)
“Stephen has my utmost respect as a vocal technician. Without exception, every artist I represent that I have sent to him has improved dramatically”.
Chris Grsic, Manager ClubCorp Entertainment
Agent for:
§ Sheraton On The Park
§ Fox Studios
§ Orient Express Hotel Group
§ Arena
§ Intercontinental
“Stephen’s teaching method and industry knowledge has helped me immeasurably, it’s given me the vocal edge that I was lacking”.
Paul McCann
Buddy Holly, Buddy Holly Tribute Show.
“I have found Stephen to have a remarkable ability to improve vocal technique with his understanding and knowledge of the voice. His professional approach shines through in all aspects of his work”.
Angela Ayers
Star of A Chorus Line, Guys & Dolls, Joseph & the Technicolour Dream Coat & Jerry’s Girls.
“Not only are you the best vocal coach but your advice and input about the industry is gold. Thank you so much for helping me achieve my dream”.
Anuj
2 top 40 singles & Album
‘Stereo On The Moon’Shock Records.
"The Australian Voice Improvement Centre is a fantastic place to go whether you’re learning how to sing or for endurance or performance skills or just to perfect your technique. Being a professional singer in a well-known covers band called “JellyBean Jam”, we play on average between 3 to 5 gigs a week so endurance is very important to me for me to perform at my best and I have been able to look after my vocal cords and sing with ease, maintaining a consistent performance and a much larger range thanks to the lessons and exercises provided by AVIC.
They provide advice and coaching to suit all needs and tailor lessons to each individual voice and level of experience. I thank the AVIC as without their fantastic teachers and techniques I wouldn’t have a strong career in the music industry and a strong healthy voice, which never tires out. I thoroughly recommend them to anyone who is beginning or at the highest performance level. Results are immediate and will help you either start a career, hobby or maintain a voice. Give them a call you will never look back! Thank You AVIC."
Jenni Barilla (Performer with JellyBean Jam)
“I first began vocal training with Stephen during group sessions at JMC Music Academy in March 2003. Through these group sessions I began to develop a different perspective and much broader knowledge of both singing and performing. I then decided to attend Stephen’s Studio for private vocal lessons so I could expand my knowledge and take my vocal training to a different and higher level.
Stephen helped me do just that! Over a short period of time I and people around me began to notice a great improvement in both my singing technique and personal confidence. He helped me to understand the physical challenges and changes involved in vocal training and also gave me guidance on how to be emotionally connected to my own voice and the songs I sing.
Stephen has given me knowledge in various areas. He has taught me both stage performance skills and camera techniques.
Stephen has also offered me various opportunities to perform and expand my knowledge of vocal training. I was able to perform during his Master Class at the Australian National Association of Teachers of Singing conference at Sydney’s Conservatorium of Music. This was an experience that has helped me to improve my skills and expose me to different perspectives towards vocal training.
I see Stephen as not only a teacher and mentor but as a great friend. Singing to me is an extremely personal experience and I felt I needed to work with a teacher who is able to create a comfortable environment and relationship along with a caring and nurturing attitude towards my vocal ability.
Stephen has helped me to venture down different avenues and improve my understanding of my own voice. I cannot thank him enough”.
Madelyn Henniker (Age 19 – Student)
"I have been a student of Stephens for about 10 months now. Having been to four other teachers prior to this, I can say that the tuition Stephen provides is outstanding. Before beginning lessons with him I was barely what you'd call an average singer, my efforts continually being thwarted by poor technique and lack of know-how. Now, the boost in my ability and confidence; as a performer; songwriter and recording artist, is enormous. Originally, being primarily a songwriter, I never really expected to finish a gig and have people coming up and commenting enthusiastically on my singing. There is no question that the lessons with Stephen have liberated me musically to a great degree."
Lance Jurd (Singer/Songwriter)
"Well, what can't I say about Stephen Baker. He is a true professional whose knowledge of vocal training is astounding. Stephen has been teaching me for two and a half years, and during this time has taught me not only technical elements of voice training, but also emotional elements. Since I started with Stephen my confidence level, knowledge of voice training and overall outlook as a performer has improved considerately. Stephen has the ability to explain elements of voice training in many ways. If one way doesn't work, he will try a different approach. The one which will gain results. His patience and appreciation for music has made my journey, as a performer, that more enjoyable. Thanks Stephen."
Paula Saba (Singer/Songwriter)
"I've been taking lessons with Stephen for a year now and have found him to be a man of great talent and inspiration. I knew I had a voice but I wasn't sure how to use it. Stephen has taught me how to project my voice by teaching me techniques that only a teacher can give. I find Stephen to be very professional and educating and at the same time a friend who always encourages me. Stephen has helped improve my voice and confidence tremendously which has helped me to go on and win many singing competitions. I look forward to many more lessons in the future."
Rebecca Jacques (Music Theatre Performer/Musician)
"Stephen has made a huge difference to my singing. Now its so much easier going
up and down and around and around. Before I was straining but now it’s all
relaxed. Unlike other coaches he teaches REAL technique that REALLY works!
He's the best vocal coach out there!!!!!"
Matty Patterson (Singer/Songwriter)