songwriter
educator
performer
There is an artist in each of us. Being able to convey our triumphs, disappointments, joys and sorrows through making music is powerful and transformational. When we take part, we become both the messenger and the listener. We reveal who we are, and we inch closer to each other.
~ Lisa Goulder
Lisa Goulder Music Studio
Piano Instruction: in-person and remote lessons
I believe in the importance of building a strong musical foundation while nurturing the development of individual artistry and creativity. I offer instruction in styles ranging from classical, rock, jazz and pop, and provide coaching in songwriting and improvisation. Note reading, rhythm, theory and technique are an integral part of lessons, as well as a comprehensive piano repertoire. In a warm, supportive atmosphere, I encourage students to ask questions, participate in the direction of their lessons, while I maintain high expectations for them to meet musical challenges. I teach students of all ages and levels and offer a performance opportunity in a yearly recital where they can share what they have accomplished. Whether they want to play purely for their own enjoyment or to fulfill their performance dreams, I strive to inspire students to grow and have fun at music making.
Voice Instruction: in-person and remote lessons
Good vocal technique leads to a sense of freedom with the voice. My focus in vocal training encompasses using proper breath support, understanding the workings of the larynx, vocal cords and diaphragm, and how to influence and shape tone quality. Each voice is unique, and exercises are given to build on its strengths and address its weaknesses. I strive to make a connection with my students, laying the groundwork for them to grow, trust their instincts and abilities, and discover the artist within. A sense of play and fun is encouraged as we do concentrated vocal work. A broad song repertoire includes popular music styles such as rock, pop, jazz and musical theater. I work with students who range from beginning to experienced singers and I provide piano accompaniment at the lessons. A yearly recital is offered where students have the opportunity to perform and take pride in what they have accomplished.
Registration
Songs
Here are some tunes from past and present…
Hurry My Heart
A driving piano part played by my husband Pete weaves through this song we wrote together. Jeannie Tracy adds the rich and soulful vocal response on the choruses.
Luxury
As soon as I finished reading Rebecca Alexander’s memoir Not Fade Away about her experience living with the rare genetic disorder, Usher Syndrome type III, I headed to the piano and wrote this song. Rebecca is truly an indomitable force and her story is moving and inspirational. Everyone should read this book.
Driving Lessons
In this song, I tried to put into words and music the idea that experiencing freedom and adventure is a bridge to personal strength. Pete Elman’s production is anchored by Stef Burns’ steady acoustic guitar and embellished with his exhilarating riffs on electric. Steve Cameron lays down a solid and dynamic drum track, and everything sparkles due to engineer Tom Size’s genius at the mixing board.
Break of Day (Vince Ebo vocals)
The late great Vince Ebo, who had a voice like velvet, sang this song I wrote about my son when he was born. Those pre-dawn mornings, waking to the sound of a baby’s cry, was the metaphor for the beginning of our sweet, magical journey together.
You’re Good for Me (Lily Elise vocals)
Vocalist extraordinaire Lily Elise sings this fun tune that Pete and I wrote together.
Performances
Goulderlocks and the Bears
Michael DeWall, Lisa Goulder and Pete Elman perform originals and well-loved covers.
at: Avonova
417 Avon Street, Oakland
Saturday, January 26, 2019
7:30pm
$15-$20 sliding scale, kids free
Pay at door
Testimonials
Gallery
About Lisa Goulder
Lisa Goulder is a pianist, vocalist, songwriter, and Bay Area music educator. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Lisa received classical piano instruction as a child. As her musical interests grew, she immersed herself in styles of pop, rock, folk, jazz, and musical theater. After studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston and majoring in music at Dominican University of San Rafael, Lisa began performing as a keyboardist and singer with highly acclaimed musicians, among them jazz singer Michele Hendricks—daughter of Jon Hendricks of Lambert, Hendricks and Ross. She has also worked with Naomi Ruth Eisenberg of Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks, and has written material performed by Bobby McFerrin.
Driven to find an outlet for her own music, Lisa formed and fronted the band Dreamland, an innovative six-piece band which performed all over the Bay Area. In 2001 she released Hurry My Heart, an original pop-rock CD. She has licensed her music to radio and TV, composed songs for children, and garnered an award for best song from Bay Area Women in Music. Lisa taught voice, piano, theory, and rock workshops at the Blue Bear School of Music in San Francisco and at The Music School at Piedmont Piano in Oakland. Lisa founded and directed Pop Singing for Girls, a program that was the first of its kind, combining a well developed and comprehensive pop vocal curriculum that included musical instruction, performance and dance. For 14 years, its highly attended sessions and summer camps were a favorite training ground for aspiring young vocalists.
Currently, Lisa runs her own studio where she gives private instruction in voice, piano, and songwriting to youth, teenagers and adults. She coaches students who have upcoming auditions and steers them to performance opportunities. Her students have been accepted to Oakland School for the Arts and have received lead and ensemble roles at Youth Musical Theater Company, Berkeley Playhouse and San Francisco Playhouse. They have participated in high school choruses, musicals and jazz band programs and have gone on to study music in college.
In addition to teaching, Lisa writes and records music, and performs at various venues. She lives in Oakland with her husband, Pete. She has a son, Will, who is an attorney and musician in Washington, DC, and a daughter, Katie, who is a NYC-based musical theater actress.
CONTACT LISA:
lisagoulder@gmail.com