Here's what current and former students and parents are
saying about The Green Room. . .
saying about The Green Room. . .
The Green Room is more than a vocal training studio, it is a place where passion, precision and potential come together to create something magical. My daughter has studied voice with Jen Harkey for three years and while I most definitely have seen her vocal talents bloom, I have been even more touched by the character, focus and determination that Jen has helped my daughter develop. Wherever my daughter goes with her voice she will be ready to carry herself with dignity and care--now that is beautiful music!!! -Caryn Mefford, parent of high school vocal student, Noelle
Are you considering music lessons in your later years? Research suggests learning a musical instrument increases human growth hormones, which slow the adverse effect of aging. I was in my late 70s when I started taking piano lessons, then COVID hit. I continued my studies via Zoom. As it turned out, virtual lessons became my preferred way. With virtual lessons, there is no need to rush to my lesson; I log in and can wear my house shoes for comfort. My piano is familiar, so it's easier to use mine instead of playing on an unfamiliar
piano. There is also the issue of personality. If you are reserved as I am, you may feel more comfortable having your own space. Can a virtual lesson be as effective as an in-person lesson? The teachers are professionals and give the same input as they would at their location. Learning and playing music gives me a sense of satisfaction as I see myself improving week after week.
It also makes me happy by giving me a song in my heart and mind.
-Edie Boom
piano. There is also the issue of personality. If you are reserved as I am, you may feel more comfortable having your own space. Can a virtual lesson be as effective as an in-person lesson? The teachers are professionals and give the same input as they would at their location. Learning and playing music gives me a sense of satisfaction as I see myself improving week after week.
It also makes me happy by giving me a song in my heart and mind.
-Edie Boom
As an adult voice student, who had many years of bad habits ingrained in my singing style, Jen has shown extensive patience and encouragement in the lengthy process of changing those habits. She has been continually resourceful in finding ways to bring those changes about and tailoring them to my specific needs. Because she shows an interest in my well-being, she conveys the idea that my musicianship doesn't stand alone but is in harmony with my total person. She has high expectations and enthusiastically prepares her students for performances, taking great delight in their successes. Conversely, what we might see as failures she sees as positive stepping stones in our evolving expertise. -Nora Cooper
In the short time I have taken voice lessons with Jennifer, I have already made remarkable progress. After tearing my ACL and no longer being able to dance to my fullest abilities, I turned to voice lessons to polish a passion I have had since childhood. Jennifer's willingness to work with me and my crazy schedule has been suburb! I have learned a lot about my voice and how to use it properly; I am fully prepared to use my talents at the Miss Illinois 2013 competition this summer. I never dreamed I would feel as confident and prepared as I am after only working with Jennifer for 2 1/2 months. I am forever grateful for her and for everything she's taught me. She has outstanding teaching techniques and I would recommend anyone and everyone interested to her. -Stephanie McGovern
I love being with Jen. She is really nice, and I want to move into her house. I love playing the piano, and hope to pass all of my levels so I can start singing lessons. Piano is fun! -Aly Gabriel, age 7
I have been with Jen for 7 years now and would just like to say that I love her like a sister. I have accomplished so much more on piano and my singing is way better than I ever thought it would be. I know with 4 more years to go I will be a beast on piano and hope to get a scholarship in music for college. Jen is AWESOME!! -Aly Gabriel, age 13
I have been with Jen for 7 years now and would just like to say that I love her like a sister. I have accomplished so much more on piano and my singing is way better than I ever thought it would be. I know with 4 more years to go I will be a beast on piano and hope to get a scholarship in music for college. Jen is AWESOME!! -Aly Gabriel, age 13
I have been involved in The Green Room for three years and have learned so much. You learn something new about yourself every time you take a lesson. The Green Room has helped me be a better performer in musical theatre. I've always loved to perform but now I have the skill of not only singing but knowing how to sing the correct way. -Annie M. age 12
I started voice lessons at The Green Room the summer before I started High School, and it was the best learning decision I have made in music to date. Not only is Jennifer Harkey an extremely gifted musician, but also truly talented in teaching musical skills and values--which, from my experiences, is a rarity to find in the music world. I recently underwent the rigorous college audition process for a vocal performance major. It is because of Jen's instruction and unwavering faith in me and my musical abilities that I was accepted to my dream school, Peabody Conservatory! I whole-heartedly recommend her as a teacher for any student who is ready to take their musical abilities to a level they didn't know they could reach. -Bailey Jo Hutton, age 18
As an adult learner, I choose to study music with Jen, not just because of her tremendous talent & her likeability as a person (although, that helps a lot!), but also because of her ability to be so creative and flexible in her teaching style. She has a very kind and caring spirit that she injects into whatever she does. Thanks so much Jen! -Cheryl M.
