Testimonials

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Jestin Pieper
Pianist, Conductor, Voice Coach, Piano Instructor
www.jestinpieper.com

William is a force in the musical world not just as a coach and conductor, but as an educator and mentor for pianists and vocalists alike. I have benefited immensely as a pianist and coach from his encyclopedic knowledge of Operatic repertoire, and his nurturing guidance of language, style and touch. I highly recommend anyone seriously studying the art to work with him.

Viktoriya Vita Koreneva
Mezzo-Soprano
www.viktoriyavitakoreneva.com

Having worked with William on many different roles, it always amazes me how much he knows and how much he cares for the music and the voice. Nowadays, when acceptance of mediocrity seems to be so prevelant, accuracy to the style, words and especially musical intent of the composer become so much more important. William is an amazing collaborative pianist who breathes with a singer while making music together. He is a very attentive, caring coach, who does not overlook important details, and who takes the time to correct and perfect each line, each phrase, and ultimately an entire role.

It’s been my privilege to learn from the best and to be able to practice the skill that the great singers of the Golden Age possessed. Singing opera is not just knowing the right repertoire or not just having the right voice for it, it’s the ability to use our voices with technical mastery and also to tell the story on behalf of the composers. 

William really knows Bel Canto and how to sing it; being a singer himself and having worked in many of the leading opera houses of the world, he knows what sound is necessary for the professional opera stage. This knowledge and his ability to pass it on is invaluable!

Philippe Marquis - Singer/Songwriter/Guitarist

I have been working closely with William Hicks on vocal and performance coaching for more than one year and am astounded by his close attention to detail in working out a custom plan for me to solidify and strengthen my natural singing voice, expand my range to two full octaves and refine my performances for the stage and recording studio. With William, there is no ‘one size fits all’ – he uses his 35+ years of coaching and singing experience to address the unique needs of each student and provide them with catered lessons designed to build a strong traditional foundation.

While building this foundation, William ensures to keep his students’ goals in mind; for example, William worked hand in hand with me to specifically help me in singing Rock and Pop songs. His mastery at the piano enhances the lesson quality, as he's able to play along with any piece of sheet music and also to play a wide variety of styles. I highly recommend William for singers looking to build on the fundamentals of proper singing, all the while looking to capture and build on their unique voice.

James Reaves, a grateful dad.

"Just a thank you for helping my daughter realise her true potential as a vocalist. She was floundering with her direction and vocal power. However, after coaching with you she has a new lease on life and vocal direction has blossomed within her heart. I have never heard her depth and resonance as I do now. I am dumbfounded. Thank you very much for whatever you said or taught her. I just had to thank you."