The Harris Voice Studio offers voice lessons and coaching to students of all ages and abilities. Karen has a particular interest in voice science, vocal health and acting through song. She also works with individuals to define and present their best selves. Combining over two decades of work as a performer, director, attorney, mediator and collaborator, Karen coaches individuals preparing for interviews, auditions, college, adulthood, new career paths and life choices.
I had never sung but always wanted to try. About a year ago, I came to Karen for lessons. I was embarrassed and terrified to sing in public. At 53 I thought I was too old to learn anything. Also I can't read music. Also I don't understand music. Also I had no musical training. Did that deter Karen? It did not. She makes learning to sing joyful and fun. It's as much physical education as musical education: She's taught me how to control my breath and use my body to make myself a singer. She's worked with me to find songs that fit my voice (Hello Randy Travis! Hello Elvis Costello!) I'm never going to perform at Wolftrap, but I'm practicing with her for a performance for friends and family. Mostly I'm overjoyed that I've learned something new, and had a wonderful time doing it.
-David Plotz, Voice Student
You have my eternal admiration and gratitude. We have prayed our son would give theater a try. The boy sings around the house morning, noon and night. Under your extraordinary direction, he didn't just give theater a try, he got the bug. Thank you for creating the conditions for him to flourish and shine, no glow. It is miraculous to see. You will forever be part of his personal narrative.
- Myra (parent of a student)
I would like to thank and highly recommend Ms. Harris for all her assistance with my son's preparation for the college admissions process. My son enjoyed working with her, crediting her with helping him structure his thoughts and develop responses to common questions for interviews and application essays. He was accepted to his first choice college!
- Lynne Cowan (parent of a student)
Thank you for a a fabulous experience. As a parent volunteer on your shows, I get to interact with a lot of the kids one on one, so I really get to see your positive impact first hand. The cast’s enthusiasm, energy and excitement is palpable. And that will have a lasting effect, I’m sure of it. And as for my daughter, I can’t say enough. She’s a self-declared “shy kid.” And so many of her teachers approached me post-show absolutely flabbergasted that the girl who wouldn't even raise her hand in class was able to do what she did on stage. Her teacher remarked that she’s really “blossomed” since the show began. You have given her such a confidence boost! Thank you for the work you did with her.
- Elizabeth Takacs (parent of a student)