Alison Taylor

Experience

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  London Musical Theatre

  Jan 2003 - Jan 2005

  Actor/Singer/Dancer

  2005 - Annie Get Your Gun - Winnie Tate2004 - Pal Joey - Linda English2003 - Kiss Me, Kate - chorus

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  Alison Jane Taylor Studio

  Aug 2005 - Dec 2023

  SenseAble Singing: voice and movement education

  Provided individual voice instruction to students of all ages and skill levels, in avariety of musical genres (classical, contemporary, musical theatre).Instructed students in vocal technique, breathing exercises, vocal health, andperformance skills.Guided students in developing awareness of their postural tendencies andmovement patterns so that they have access to more choices and possibilities.Provided hands-on guidance and verbal instruction to help students releasetension and improve coordination.Incorporated principles of anatomy, biomechanics, and mindfulness intolessons to deepen students' understanding of their bodies and functionalmovement.Fostered a supportive and collaborative learning environment to encouragestudents' confidence and personal expression.Developed customized lesson plans tailored to each student's abilities, interests,unique learning style, and desired outcomes. Show less

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  Wandering Minstrel Music School

  Jan 2007 - Jan 2009

  Voice Teacher

  Voice lessons for students aged 10 to older adult. In addition to strong foundation in vocal technique and healthy singing practices, students exposed to various musical styles: classical, musical theatre, pop, and jazz.RCM exam preparation up to Grade 10.Prepared students for competitions and festivals: Peel Music Festival, Kiwanis Music Festival.

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  Certified Alexander Technique Teacher

  Jan 2008 - Nov 2021

  Private Teacher and Workshop Presenter

  The Alexander Technique is a teaching method that increases our awareness of how we function from day to day. Students are taught to address tension-inducing habits and are given the tools to change these habits in order to prevent further injury or pain.The Technique can be applied to walking, sitting, lying down, performance, athletics, and all daily activities.Teaching private, one-on-one lessons in the Alexander Technique.Offering introductory and specialized workshops and presentations (content can be structured to meet the specific needs of group).Past workshops have included:- introduction to the Technique, providing broad overview- working with singers (i.e.: high school vocal students in the classroom, 80+ member community choir) addressing sound production and freedom to breathe- working with computer-use: how to sit for long periods of time without back pain Show less

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  Cantala Women's Ensemble

  Jan 2008 - Jan 2010

  Soprano soloist and chorister, section lead

  Performed diverse repertoire: Britten (soloist), Rutter (soloist), Bach Stabat Mater BWV 1083 (soloist)Assisted in preparation of repertoire and vocal technique by leading sectional rehearsals

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  Heliconian Choir and Orchestra

  Jan 2011 - Nov 2013

  Soprano and Co-Artistic Director

  As co-artistic director, I work closely with our conductor, musicians and composers to program innovative concerts throughout the season. My responsibilities as choir manager include:- holding auditions- assisting in repertoire selection- coordinating composer-in-residence program- organising fundraising, sponsorship, etc.- marketing and promotion- liaising with Heliconian Hall manager and membership- community outreach

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  Arcady Ensemble

  Apr 2011 - Sept 2012

  Soprano

  Performed as part of the Brott Music Festival (Hamilton, ON) August 2011 and August 2012.

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  BlackCreek Music Festival

  May 2011 - Aug 2011

  Soprano

  Soprano with the BlackCreek Festival Chorus. Performed with Placido Domingo, Audra McDonald, Maestro Lorin Maazel.

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  Brott Music Festival

  Jul 2011 - Aug 2011

  Soprano

  Carmen, chorus, Boris Brott, cond.Carmina Burana, chorus, Boris Brott, cond.

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  Bravo Academy for the Performing Arts

  Sept 2011 - Jun 2017

  Teaching Voice, Piano, and the Alexander Technique

  Offering private lessons in Voice, Piano and the Alexander Technique. Offering workshops in the Alexander Technique to faculty and students.

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  Central Eglinton Community Centre

  Sept 2011 - Jan 2013

  Alexander Technique Teacher

  Offering introductory workshops and 4-week courses: Introduction to the Alexander Technique.

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  The Canadian Sopranos

  Oct 2011 - Jan 2013

  The Canadian Sopranos - classical vocal trio

  Formed in 2010, the Canadian Sopranos is a classical/contemporary vocal trio comprised of three professionally-trained singers - Alison Hodsman, Tessa Laengert, and Laura Kelly (manager).This ensemble is a unique blend of three classically trained voices creating one unique sound. Their beautiful arrangements of both classical and contemporary repertoire are charming audiences. While based in Toronto, the Canadian Sopranos have traveled across Ontario for a variety of events. In 2011, they performed as the headliners for the Canada Day ceremonies (both the citizenship ceremony and the firework festival) in Caledonia, Ontario. They also performed at the 2011 Thornhill Village Festival.Most recently, the Canadian Sopranos had the opportunity to perform at a private party for the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. In January 2012, they offered a tremendous performance at the Order of Ontario investiture ceremony and dinner.The Canadian Sopranos are highly trained professionals and perform for private and corporate functions. Alison, Tessa, and Laura bring a wealth of performance experience to special events. They have an extensive repertoire and are the perfect accompaniment to any occasion. Show less

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  Bach Children's Chorus

  Jan 2012 - Jun 2014

  Vocal Coach

  Working with children ages 6-10. Lessons include: sight singing, solfege, ear training, RCM repertoire, recital/performance preparation.

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  Alison & Laura

  May 2013 - Jan 2015

  Soprano and Co-Artistic Director

  Alison & Laura are a classically trained soprano and mezzo-soprano who delight in presenting sparkling duets in a variety of genres. From Mozart and Purcell to folk and musical theatre, Alison & Laura select repertoire that demonstrates their vivacious personalities and highlights their classical roots. With a full performance schedule, Alison & Laura delight and entertain in recital and at events throughout Toronto and Southwestern Ontario.

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  Canadian Folk's Opera

  Nov 2013 - Feb 2014

  Gilda - Rigoletto

  Preparing the role of Gilda in the Canadian Folk's Opera's excerpted production of Verdi's Rigoletto.

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  Fanshawe College - Theatre Arts

  Jan 2014 - Apr 2017

  Professor - Alexander Technique

  Teaching the Alexander Technique to the second year Theatre Arts students at Fanshawe College in London, ON.

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  Music Theatre on the Thames (MToT)

  Jul 2015 - Jul 2015

  Alexander Technique Teacher

  Provide instruction in the Alexander Technique through group classes and private coachings for singers. Introduction to the Alexander Technique principles of freeing the body through awareness of habits and accurate body mapping. Application of these principles to performance. Topics include:- body mapping- movement analysis- foundational movements- somatic experiencing- optimal breathing- performance coaching

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  Church in Toronto

  Feb 2016 - May 2016

  Vocal Coach

  Bi-monthly vocal coaching sessions with the youth who lead weekly worship services. Instruction includes:- understanding vocal function- understanding breath- improving vocal tone- increasing vocal resonance- expanding vocal range- problem-solving vocal issues- reducing muscle tension- harmonizing tips

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  Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association

  Apr 2016 - Apr 2016

  Alexander Technique Teacher

  Presented an introductory Alexander Technique workshop to a group of piano and voice teachers at the ORMTA AGM. Topics included:- balance and coordination- accurate body mapping of bending joints- sitting in balance- noticing habits in standing, walking, and sitting- finding a teaching language that facilitates learning and prevents "trying too hard"

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  New Creation Church

  May 2016 - Jun 2016

  Vocal Coach

  Bi-monthly vocal coaching sessions with the singers who lead weekly worship services. Instruction includes:- understanding vocal function- understanding breath- improving vocal tone- increasing vocal resonance- expanding vocal range- problem-solving vocal issues- reducing muscle tension- harmonizing tips

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  Dramatic Vocal Arts Intensive in Sackville, NB

  Jun 2016 - Jun 2016

  Alexander Technique Teacher

  Provide instruction in the Alexander Technique through group classes, workshops, masterclasses, and private coachings for singers. Introduction to the Alexander Technique principles of freeing the body through awareness of habits and accurate body mapping. Application of these principles to the athletic art of singing and musical expression. Topics include:- body mapping- movement analysis- foundational movements- somatic experiencing- optimal breathing- performance coaching Show less

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  George Brown College

  Sept 2017 - Apr 2019

  Professor, Alexander Technique

  Teaching the Alexander Technique in the Acting for Media program.

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  Theatre Arts Centennial College

  Jan 2018 - Apr 2019

  Professor

  Teaching Voice for the Actor, drawing on the work of Kristin Linklater as well as the Alexander TechniqueTeaching Singing for the Actor

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  Gestalt Institute of Toronto Student Clinic

  Jan 2020 - Aug 2022

  Supervised Student Therapist, Gestalt Institute of Toronto

  Provided individual therapy to clients under the supervision of licensed Gestalttherapists, including faculty.Assisted in the development and implementation of co-created assessment andnext steps for clients, based on Gestalt therapy principles and client-centredapproaches.Integrated feedback from clinic directors, colleagues, and faculty.Participated in consultations and continuing education activities to enhanceclinical skills and knowledge in embodied, relational contemporary Gestalttherapy.Conducted intake assessments and client placement, with the support of facultyand clinic directors. Show less

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  Present Sensing Psychotherapy

  Jul 2022 - now

  Registered Psychotherapist

  Conduct virtual and in-person individual therapy sessions using embodied,relational Gestalt therapy techniques, tailored to the needs and preferences ofclients.Provide individual therapy to clients presenting with various mental healthconcerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.Collaborate with clients to co-create assessments that support self-awareness,authenticity, belonging, and connection.Utilize experiential exercises, role-playing, and creative interventions to facilitateemotional processing and insight.Maintain thorough and accurate client records in compliance with Canadianprivacy laws and professional ethics, and adhering to the requirements set outby the CRPO.Engage in regular supervision with licensed Gestalt supervisor, both to supportgrowth as a therapist and adhere to registration requirements set out by theCRPO.Stay informed about developments in the field of Gestalt therapy throughongoing professional development and training opportunities.Experience with electronic practice management platform, including notetakingand record keeping. Show less

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  Transition to Post-Secondary Education Program

  Jan 2023 - Apr 2023

  Supervised Student Therapist, George Brown College

  Provided individual therapy to adult students who have faced barriers to furtherschool or work related to criminalization, psychiatrization and/or otherexperiences of alienation from belonging to the world.Participated in individual, group, and peer experiential supervision to developskills as an embodied, relational Gestalt therapist in an institutional andeducational setting.Contributed to the the range of supports offered to students in solidarity withtheir transitions and navigating post-secondary institutions.Engaged with training around reconceptualizing addiction and mental health, aswell as working to develop a safe and effective use of self. Show less