Expertise • Enthusiasm • Excellence

SarahAnn Duffy
Voice, Elementary Piano

SarahAnn did her BMus degree at New England Conservatory and her MMus at Bard College Conservatory of Music. Her principle teachers were Nova Thomas (Met Opera performer), Lorraine Nubar and MaryAnn McCormick.

In addition to maintaining her own private studio for students age 5 - 70, Sarah has been the Music & Theater instructor at the BSO Days in the Arts Summer institute, and a Teaching Artist at the Aspen Music Festival. Her teaching focuses on healthy technique, creating a positive environment, and support of home practice.

Meet SarahAnn

1. How/what age did you start your instrument?
   I began singing at age 9 and playing piano at age 12.
2. Did you come from a musical family?
   I have some musical influence in my family, but I mostly have a wonderful support system who have always been my biggest cheerleaders in my performing and teaching endeavors! My father played trumpet growing up, but other than that, my family appreciates music even if they're not inherently musical.
3. Best or funniest (or even worst!) musical memory from childhood?
   My introduction to the arts was through dance. I was a competitive dancer throughout my childhood and one year I auditioned for the musical "Annie" with hopes of being in the ensemble/chorus. It turned out that I was cast as the title character, Annie, in "Annie" and I never looked back!
4. A highlight or two from your performing career:
   A recent highlight in my performing career was while I was a Young Artist at the Glimmerglass Festival. Part of my responsibilities there were singing a role in an opera, singing in a chorus for another show, and understudying (in opera we call it covering) a lead. My colleague was unfortunately indisposed, and I got to go on as the lead in the opera with one day's notice! It was so thrilling to put all of my hard work forward for everyone to see, to trust myself in my colleagues in the experience, and shine!
5. What do you love about teaching?
   I love getting to be a part of my students' musical journeys. I remember nearly all of my music teachers and mentors in my life, and it is so rewarding to be that to others. Getting to see the "I got it!" look in my students' eyes about a concept, a song or piece they play is the best feeling, and I love watching students grow and express themselves!
6. What would you like your students to know about you?
   I am always on your team. I love to help students discover their own unique gifts and tailor our lessons to my students' individual growth.
7. Can you share a non-musical fun fact about you?
   When I'm not singing, teaching, or performing, I love sailing! I also have a mini-golden doodle named Chancho. He likes to sing sometimes, too!