Stephanie Bonte-Lebair and Jenni McGinnis met in early 2004 during a production of Into the Woods with Damascus Theatre Company (Jenni as Rapunzel and Stephanie as Cinderella). In the Fall of 2005, they found themselves singing together again in Carousel (Jenni as Carrie and Stephanie as Julie). A friendship was formed and an idea began. Each taught lessons privately and they wondered how they might join forces to teach local students in a fun and nurturing environment. They started with their first group voice class in early 2006 and have been teaching together on several projects ever since.

The Duet Vocal Academy Teaching Method
Part of DVA's teaching method is reflected in the name. Choosing the name Duet Vocal Academy came about quite easily – two singers developing lesson plans and teaching together – like a duet. The objective is to bring multiple perspectives and ideas to students.  During a group class, each instructor takes turns presenting a lesson, working with students, and feeding ideas off each other. The objective is to be dynamic and responsive to needs of the students in that moment. In addition, one instructor can pull aside a student for individual work while the other leads the group in practice. 

This team teaching approach provides students with the advantages of working in a group (being able to interact and perform in front of their peers) while still achieving a fair amount of individual attention.

Stephanie and Jenni focus on healthy singing technique, while still encouraging creativity and individual style. Good singing technique will work for any style – pop, rock, folk, country, musical theatre or classical – and they encourage all students to work on individual expression.

This is where singing comes to life!