ROBERT CHAVNER
Countertenor,
Singing Teacher, Vocal Coach and Piano Teacher
Tel: +44(0)1665 574008
Mobile: +44(0)771 465 3264
'Robert has an exceptionally beautiful and powerful voice with a range of two octaves. He is very musical , with good looks and a striking stage presence.'
Laura Sarti MBE FGS
'Robert has considerable professional experience in the United Kingdom and abroad and is one of the most delightful people that one is ever likely to meet. His countertenor voice is of a clarity and warmth of timbre that in my experience is exceptional. His languages are in good shape and I am pleased to recommend him to you most warmly.'
Robin Bowman Vocal Coach, Accompanist and French Consultant
'Robert has natural musicality, is sensitive to the words and has immense presence and powers of communication.'
Noelle Barker OBE
'Robert's solos in Bach's St Matthew Passion were much admired for the quality of his interpretation and the spiritual intensity of his performance. The quality of his spirituality affects his interpretation and makes it all a part of his ministry.'
Kenneth Howcroft, President 2014 Methodist Conference
“ ... a Counternor voice high in pitch and power”
THE MUSICAL TIMES
Robert was born in South Shields and can never remember a time when music was not part of his life, giving depth and meaning to so much that he was unable to express in words. Robert read music at Newcastle where he was a principal study pianist and scholarships from the Countess of Munster, the Ian Fleming Trust, Sir Harry Secombe and Dame Catherine Cookson, allowed him to continue his studies as a singer, at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama with Laura Sarti MBE and James Bowman CBE. Following graduation, he worked as an operatic soloist with many leading figures in our cultural life in venues both here and abroad. During his career Robert recorded for the BBC and frequently performed Britten's Canticle II: Abraham and Isaac with tenor David Johnston. He has sung under the baton of such conductors as Sir David Willcocks, Steuart Bedford, Margaret Rizza, Charles Farnecombe, Jean-Claude Malgoire, Leonard Bernstein and Dr David Flood. For several years Robert was a Lay Clerk at Lincoln Cathedral and taught singing and Piano at the Minster school. Whilst there he established the Lincoln Piano and Voice Studio at his home in the Cathedral Close.
Robert is a highly respected, qualified and experienced singing teacher and vocal coach and has given masterclasses in Sussex and Edinburgh and for the Scottish Music Association at Cragie College, Ayr. In recent years he has dedicated himself to teaching singing on a one-to-one basis and the wider aspect of music in the community. Many of his former students now enjoy success in all branches of the classical singing world, as choristers and soloists in the international opera and concert world.
In 2015 Robert received the Freedom of the City of London and in 2017 he was made a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Musicians. Robert is a also a Fellow of the Guild of Musicians and Singers and the Academy of St Cecilia.
ABOUT
REVIEWS Handel: Messiah Lincoln Cathedral 'Robert Chavner provided the most stylish singing of the evening. His fine countertenor voice, notable for the quality of its high notes and undergirded with a strong technique made an admirable impression.' Lincolnshire Echo 'Outstanding among the soloists was the Countertenor Robert Chavner whose sure technical control and radiant tone characterised some excellent singing. His musicianly embelishments were in good taste and he had clear vocal projection.' Yorkshire Post
Handel: 'Rodelinda' Aldeburgh Fesitval
'In the role of Unulfo, Bertarido's loyal friend, Robert Chavner's more incisive countertenor provided interesting vocal contrast.
Peter Stadlen. Daily Telegraph
Legrenzi: 'Il Giustino' Chichester Festival 'I especially liked Robert Chavner's crisp, reedy alto as Adronicus.' Nicholas Kenyon, The Times Johann Strauss: 'Die Fledermaus' 'Prince Orlofsky was eloquently sung by Countertenor Robert Chavner. His impeccable singing met the challenges and difficulties which Strauss' score presents for singers and pit musicians alike.' Kent & Sussex Life
VOCAL COACHING
Singing
Realising your potential as a singer and performer requires ongoing hard work, practice and help. Studying today can be a minefield with singers often entrusting their precious instrument to incompetent teachers. Often, and without realising it, a great talent can be compromised.
Robert has taught singing for more than 30 years and is sought-after by singers from student to professional level and many of his students have gone on to conservatoire and into the music profession.
Robert's teaching provides his students with a thorough, clear and reliable technical foundation in the bel canto tradition. This allows them to discover the unique individuality and beauty in their own voices. His awareness of the psychology of performance empowers his students to deliver consistent and impressive performances.
He is able to assess each voice on its own merits and to offer guidance, help and support on all aspects of singing and speaking. The first step is a Consultation Lesson to establish a good working relationship and to assess your voice, posture, breathing, potential, and dramatic and language skills. Coaching for both speaking and singing is offered
Robert is currently accepting new students.
Piano
Whether pupils are interested in taking classical piano exams, or learning and playing just for fun, all sessions are tailored to the individuals' needs and aspirations ensuring the best possible results. Technique and musicianship will always be at the forefront of each session. Budding Pianists will have an initial consultation to outline their personal requirements.
Exmainations are a way to assess your progress and to gain certified recognition for your musical achievements. Exams are not compulsory but are considered exciting to aim for and to focus your practice towards. I follow the ABRSM syllabus and enter pupils for practical and theory exams from beginners to diploma standard. Robert is currently accepting new students.
Book a consultation
Please contact Robert Chavner directly with your piano/singing/voice-related questions or queries :
Landline: +44 (0) 1665 574008 Mobile: +44 (0) 771 465 3264
When sending a message please do give a few details about yourself including your age, experience and any vocal training to date.
Robert welcomes all regardless of experience.
Diplomas and Certificates
Robert Chavner AGSM, ALCM PdipGSM (Early Music) is a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Musicians, a member of EQUITY, and a Fellow of the Guild of Musicians and Singers.
What they say about Robert as a teacher and coach ...
'Robert is inspirational both as a singer and teacher.' Maria Kaizer
'My voice seemed unsure at first ... however, gradually, thanks to my singing teacher Robert Chavner, who encouraged my falsetto, my voice began to develop.' Richard Lindsay
'Thank you for all you have done for me and my voice; I have learned so much from you already.' Tony Green
'I really enjoyed every singing lesson with Robert and learned so much from him.' Nick Lakin
'Robert has helped Meg greatly with her confidence and ability when preparing for her singing exams. She passed her recent grade with honours, which was definitely as a result of lots of hard work and encouragement from Robert. He is patient and thorough when teaching and has helped Meg to project her voice and use more expression.'
Kate Williams
'Robert really is a star! From our first meeting, I felt at ease and in excellent hands. As an adult pupil, I felt quite nervous about learning to read music, however, I shouldn't have been worried with Robert. Even during my stressful, brain-meltdown days, Robert was patient and reassuring. He would adjust his teaching style so that the information would stick. I found confidence in myself that I didn't know I had, and my piano playing has improved second to none. He really is a wonderful teacher and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him for any age or ability. Thank you so much Robert! ' Kathy Elizabeth
'Robert has a great approach with young people. He is very positive and encouraging and got my sons piano playing off to a flying start. Julie Fletcher
'I used to sing when I was in my teens. When I was 19 I did a performance and said afterwards that I would never sing again having suffered from stage fright. 10 years on, I thought it was about time to give it another go! I contacted Robert and he changed everything for me. I have had many singing teachers before, but Robert took me to a whole new level. He was incredible. He understood my fear and lack of confidence. Within a few sessions, I had the confidence to go home and sing in front of my parents - first time ever! I applied to the local musical theatre group (and was successful) and have now signed up for my first musical theatre performance. Anyone who has the chance to have Robert as their teacher - grab the chance with both hands! He is fab and I owe him a lot and for being where I am today. Thank you, Robert!' Penny Vincent
AUDIO
LINKS
The Vocalist, an international mailing list for singers and singing teachers. We are a group of mostly opera and classical singers, but also discuss musical theatre and other styles. All topics, from auditions to fach to repertoire to career-building, vocal warmups, singing tips, are welcome here.
Copy Of -AOTOS The Association of Teachers of Singing
The Association of Teachers of Singing (AOTOS) was founded in 1975 to promote a wider understanding of all aspects of the teaching of singing. We create opportunities which bring together teachers from all over the world. All AOTOS activities and services are open to members specialising in teaching any expression of song: from classical, through music theatre and folk, to jazz, rock and gospel, either privately or in school, college or conservatoire.
THE BRITISH VOICE ASSOCIATION
The British Voice Association provides a unique network of support and provision for performers and professional voice users . Linking world-class professionals, working across multiple disciplines, the BVA strives to provide education and assistance to those whose voice is their most valuable tool. This includes advice on vocal technique, performance, technology and all aspects of vocal health and hygiene (both physical and emotional).
MY BUILDING BLOCKS TO SINGING
At the age of 90, Laura Sarti summarises the fundamental building blocks of her exceptionally long teaching practice, in conversation with Norbert Meyn.
Laura Sarti's vocal teaching brings together influences from her native Italy, from the tradition of Mathilde and Blanche Marchesi as well as the bel canto teacher Lucie Manen, and from the German/Austrian tradition through Emmy Heim and her long time coach Paul Hamburger.
CONTACT
When sending a message please give a few details about yourself, your experience and your vocal training, if any, to date. Thank you.