Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Krista Benson

Krista Benson

Lakewood,FL

Summary

Dynamic Music Director with a proven track record at Rise Above Performing Arts, specializing in classical vocal techniques and fostering supportive teacher-student relationships. Expert in vocal pedagogy, I create engaging lesson plans that enhance performance skills while promoting self-belief and emotional resilience in students. Passionate about delivering high-energy, impactful learning experiences.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Music Director/ Director

Rise Above Performing Arts
Sarasota, FL
08.2021 - Current
  • Played an active role in casting in collaboration with the director and choreographer
  • Assigned appropriate vocal parts to cast
  • Recorded and created Dropbox for all vocal parts in all songs as a learning and practice tool for performers
  • Created rehearsal schedules to ensure all material is covered in a timely manner
  • Discussed historical references, musical devices, diction, dynamics and vocal color to bring the performances to life
  • Worked closely with sound board operator to achieve best possible sound balance for vocals
  • Worked closely with choreographer to make sure all music and choreography fir seamlessly
  • Adapted quickly to feedback during practice sessions for improvement.
  • Fostered a positive rehearsal environment, promoting open communication and constructive feedback among performers

Music Direction (high school, college age)

  • Newsies (Directed by Kerry Butler)
  • Rent (college aged alumni production)
  • Spring Awakening (college aged alumni production)
  • Godspell
  • 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
  • Suessical
  • Shrek, The Musical
  • Fame
  • Little Women
  • Pippin
  • Grease
  • Spongebob, The Musical
  • Anastasia
  • The Wizard of Oz
  • Something Rotten

Directing:

  • Little Women
  • Anastasia
  • The Wizard of Oz

Private Vocal Technique/Vocal Coach

Self-employeed
Geneseo, NY, Sarasota FL
06.2011 - Current
  • Developed personalized vocal exercises to enhance students' singing abilities and techniques.
  • Analyzed vocal performances to identify areas for improvement and provided targeted feedback.
  • Designed engaging lesson plans tailored to individual learning styles and goals of students.
  • Implemented performance assessments to track student progress and adjust teaching approaches accordingly.
  • Employed use of advanced pedagogy in an age appropriate and engaging way
  • Developed strong and caring relationship with students in a kind and supportive environment to build trust and comfort
  • Transparent communication with parents to update on progress or concens

Music Director/Vocal Teacher

Ovation School of Musical Theater
Bradenton, FL
08.2017 - 05.2021
  • Chose appropriate class material based on age and skill level of class
  • Adapted teaching style for a range of age groups from elementary school to college age
  • Prepared classes for recitals and end of the year performances
  • Worked with private vocal students
  • Music Directed first full scale production at the school (Beauty and The Beast)

Education

Masters of Music - Musical Theater

The Boston Conservatory
Boston
05-2002

Bachelor of Arts - Music With Vocal Option

SUNY Geneseo
Geneseo, NY
05-2000

Skills

  • Classical vocal technique with specialization in Musical Theater
  • Vocal pedagogy and ability to adapt technique across diverse musical styles
  • Expertise in identifying vocal faults and developing corrective strategies
  • Strong foundation in vocal anatomy for sustainable, healthy singing
  • Emphasis on lyric interpretation, diction, phrasing, dynamics, and musical expression
  • Understanding of mental health’s impact on performance and student development
  • Experience building trusting, supportive teacher-student relationships
  • Student-centered teaching philosophy focused on encouragement and self-belief
  • Transparent communication style; includes parents in early stages of student onboarding
  • Empathetic mentorship informed by years of personal performance experience
  • Skilled at helping students navigate the emotional demands of performing
  • Creates a high-energy, engaging, and fun learning environment

Timeline

Music Director/ Director

Rise Above Performing Arts
08.2021 - Current

Music Director/Vocal Teacher

Ovation School of Musical Theater
08.2017 - 05.2021

Private Vocal Technique/Vocal Coach

Self-employeed
06.2011 - Current

Masters of Music - Musical Theater

The Boston Conservatory

Bachelor of Arts - Music With Vocal Option

SUNY Geneseo
Krista Benson