Stephanie Sterling

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about Stephanie

Stephanie Sterling is a vocal instructor and performer from Eugene, Oregon who studied music composition at Bushnell University, and songwriting at CMC Nashville. Her background includes extensive experience in classical voice, musical theater, contemporary worship leading, vocal jazz, and ensemble performance. She teaches a wide range of skills including vocal technique, audition preparation, musical acting, choral part-singing, music theory, and songwriting.
In addition to her performance experience, Stephanie has conducted choirs and orchestras, directed musicals, written scripts, and led worship bands. She brings four years of diverse teaching experience, working with students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. During her final semester at CMC Nashville, she focused on songwriting, both independently and collaboratively. This formative season launched her career as a songwriter and topliner for emerging local artists. No one gets to choose whether they are born with a natural aptitude for singing. That makes your voice a divine gift, not a measurement of comparison or a tool used solely for competition. While competition can play a big role in being a vocalist, it is not the true purpose of singing. No one else in the world has your voice, so it’s incredibly important to build a healthy relationship with it.

Teaching Philosophy

Relationship: Raised in a family of educators, I’ve come to see teaching not just as a profession but as a calling. My vocal coaches did more than teach. They sparked a lifelong love for singing and served as mentors whom I deeply admire to this day. I aim to create that same kind of environment for my own students. Learning in a one-on-one environment is completely reliant on trust. Students grow when they feel supported and comfortable to explore their abilities without pressure or fear of occasional mistakes. That same approach extends to the families I work with through communication and mutual respect, because at the end of the day we both want the same thing: to help your kiddo be the best musician and human being they can be! No one gets to choose whether they are born with a natural aptitude for singing. That makes your voice a precious gift, not a measurement of comparison or a tool used solely for competition. No one else in the world has your voice, so it’s incredibly important to build a healthy relationship with it.
Technique: Healthy technique is so important! The best thing a singer can do is understand the basic anatomical mechanics of their instrument. With those core concepts, practice becomes less about logging hours, and more about knowing what to practice and how to practice it effectively. As a result, you’ll see that skill level and confidence starts increasing gradually faster. Most beginner level singers only know about 20-30% of their full vocal ability, and the more they understand their instrument, the more they can discover healthily while using it.
I also believe in the value of stepping outside your comfort zone. I encourage students to explore genres outside their primary interest just a little. Not to change their style, but to strengthen it. It’s incredible what classical technique can do for a rock star, or what jazz scat instincts can teach a musical theater singer! Cross-genre exposure is one of my favorite exercises for unlocking new skill, artistry, and confidence. Additionally, I believe that a solid foundation in music theory is essential, especially for students who are preparing for high school or college. Depending on each student’s age and experience, I weave theory fundamentals into every lesson through sight-reading practice in their repertoire, vocabulary, and solfege mastery!

What’s been the highlight of your professional career?

In 2024, Olympian Nicola DerMatt came to my hometown, Eugene, Oregon. She hosted an event called “Hear The Glory,” a testimony night featuring the faith journeys of about twelve other silver medalists. I had the opportunity to lead worship at this event, which introduced thousands of college athletes to Christ.

What type of student will excel best with you as his/her mentor?:

The student who will excel best with me is one who wants to be present and committed about 90 percent of the time. That’s really the main thing.
More specifically, students preparing for a rigorous college vocal program would do well with me. I have recently gone through that experience myself, so I can share exactly how challenging it can be, what you will be expected to learn, and most importantly, how to manage your time effectively through assignments and repertoire that I can provide to help you gradually acclimate.

What does being a “Mentor” mean to you and why are you excited to step into this role?:

To me, being a mentor means first getting to know you in a completely judgment-free space. Once I understand who you are, I can fully invest in developing your musical skills, supporting your musical goals, and encouraging your character growth. In the music industry, character matters as much as, if not more than, skill. I believe that encouraging your unique wonderfulness is just as important as nurturing your musical talent.

What type of music did you grow up listening to? How did it influence your artistry?:

I grew up listening to classical music. My mom always had the classical station playing, and she passed that love on to me. It helped spark my creativity and gave me a strong foundation in music theory, both of which continue to shape my artistry today.

If you could meet one author/performer/creator who would it be and what would you ask them?

I’d want to meet Julie Andrews. She has always stood out to me as someone of incredible character with a beautifully rich and meaningful career. She also strikes me as genuinely intelligent and cultured, which makes me think she would have a lot of wisdom to share! I would love to hear her philosophies on life, creativity, and how she handled losing her voice with such public grace.

meet our
other music mentors
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Teaching isn't just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students' lives. To refine your search for a music mentor, select your desired instrument from the options below. 

THE ROOTS MENTOR PHILOSOPHY

Our mentors play a crucial role in shaping not just artists but well-rounded individuals equipped with a growth mindset, character, determination, confidence, and grit — skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Beyond the Notes: Our Teaching Philosophy

Our approach to music education goes beyond the traditional. While we undoubtedly focus on developing your musical talent, we understand that life's most valuable lessons extend far beyond the notes on a staff.

Our music mentors are passionate about nurturing your artistic abilities and your personal growth.

At ROOTS, we recognize that music is a powerful vehicle for character development. Our mentors instill qualities like discipline, responsibility, and respect through the art of music. Whether you're mastering the piano or perfecting your vocals, you'll also be enhancing essential life skills.

Learning an instrument or refining your singing takes patience and perseverance. Our mentors are there to guide you through the challenging moments, teaching you the importance of determination and grit – qualities that transcend music and apply to all areas of your life.

Self-confidence is a cornerstone of success. Our mentors help you build it through music by celebrating your achievements and nurturing your self-belief. As you hit those high notes or conquer a complex piece, you'll feel your confidence soar.

When you embark on a musical journey with ROOTS, you're not just gaining proficiency in your chosen instrument. You're also acquiring essential life skills that will serve you well in your academic, professional, and personal endeavors.

At ROOTS, it's not just about the music lessons. It's about the profound impact our music mentors have on your life.

At ROOTS, we are proud to have mentors who are actively engaged in the music industry. They're not just teachers; they're performers, composers, and artists who live and breathe music. This unique perspective enriches your learning experience, providing insights that go beyond the lessons.

In the heart of Music City's vibrant music scene, ROOTS Academy mentors often balance roles as musicians and educators. While their occasional commitments on the road or in the studio may lead to mentor substitutions, we're dedicated to keeping you informed about any lesson changes. In the rare event of an unmissable touring opportunity, rest assured that our team will facilitate a seamless transition to a new mentor.

Join us today to embark on an artistic and personal journey that will shape you into the best version of yourself. Experience the difference of mentorship at ROOTS Academy — where performing arts education becomes a transformative life experience.

THE ROOTS WAY

Our mission is to develop extraordinary artists and exceptional humans through transformative performing arts education. Through music, dance, and theatre, we inspire creativity, nurture character, and empower our students to positively impact their community and the world.

mindset
matters

(How we Think)

We believe mindset shapes not just who we are in the studio, but who we become in the world.

excellence
matters

(What we Do)

We believe excellence flourishes when preparation and vision align with discipline and passion.

people
matter

(How we Act)

We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels safe to create, supported to grow, and inspired to excel.

questions?

If you have any questions about our program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. We’re here to help you Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm CST.

EMILY LINDSEY – Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY – Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD – Music Operations Coordinator
KINSEY OVERDEER – Schedule & Billing Coordinator

EMILY LINDSEY
Music Director
JOSH ASHLEY
Music Operations Manager
ALEXYS HALSTENSGARD
Music Operations Coordinator
LORI KAIRDOLF
Schedule & Billing Coordinator