Private Lessons
Private Spoken Arts lessons are personalized to suit each student’s unique goals and interests. Whether you're aiming for a specific performance or looking to build speaking confidence, one-on-one instruction supports both your immediate needs and long-term development.
Students are guided through age and skill appropriate selections, including verse speaking, prose recitation, scene work, Shakespeare, storytelling, extemporaneous speaking, and improvisation offering a well rounded understanding of the Spoken Arts.
Training includes: posture, movement, vocal and physical expression, public speaking, cold reading, TelePrompter use, interview and audition techniques, microphone handling, and—upon request—dialect coaching or accent reduction.
Although declarative knowledge is important, Speech Arts is a procedural skill. Students develop skill through doing. My students have the opportunity to hone their skills at the following annual events:
ARMTA Recitals & Events - throughout the year
Private Studio Recitals - throughout the year
Presentation MRU Non-Competitive Festival - March
The Calgary Performing Arts Festival (formerly Kiwanis) - April
Royal Conservatory Practical Examinations - June
Success & Skill
Frances has been preparing students, of all levels, for their Royal Conservatory Practical & Theory Examinations, since 1997. Over the years, many of her students have won the Provincial medal for highest mark. In 2024 & 2025 Frances’ student claimed the prestigious RCM National medal.
Her students have also performed in the The Calgary Performing Arts Festival (formerly Kiwanis) for 3 decades, winning countless awards & scholarships, including the Speech Association Rose Bowl.
Since 2020, Frances’ students have consistently won every single ARMTA Calgary Recital & Awards medal and scholarships for Speech Arts & Drama.
