Singing in the Key of Me

Teal, gold paisley, with navy and blue accents highlighting blog and writings of Cynthia Vaughn, singing book author, voice teacher, singer, master voice presenter and clinician and singing competition adjudicator

Over the years I have written for many other people and organizations. This is a space for my own voice, ideas, and words.

The title was inspired years ago by the controversial actor/comedienne Rosie O’Donnell whose sheer exuberance in her own singing was undeterred by wrong notes or not quite reachable high notes. As she launched into a spontaneous song on a late night TV show, the band leader, trying to be helpful, asked, “What key do you sing in?” Rosie shrugged and replied, “I dunno. I just sing in the key of me.“

Gold c moon as logo for Cynthia Vaughn, singing writer and author of The Singing Book with Meribeth Dayme and Essentials of CoreSinging with Matthew Hoch and NATS articles
Cynthia Vaughn Cynthia Vaughn

American Singer Musical Theatre Intensive 2013: “Ask”

A faculty panel on “Singing and….” brainstormed ways of balancing performing with the other important parts of your life (family, travel, teaching, job etc). This discussion led to a broader discussion on ways that we self-sabotage our auditions, performances, life and career choices.

1). ASK. If you need help, try asking someone specific or everyone on your friends list. Be prepared for the “no” but don’t be shocked at the “yes."

Read More

“The gift of working with Cynthia is something every artist should get to have at least once in their lifetime. She has an incredible ability to see the person and well as their talent and help for both simultaneously. She will push you to grow as a person and a singer, in a way that makes you feel supported so that you can be successful.  She is capable of helping those just beginning in the same way as she is with those who are years down the road. She makes every student feel as if their lesson is the most important thing she could be doing at that moment. She will listen to your concerns and desires and map out a plan to help you achieve the things you want out of your time with her.”

—Sarah Moody, adult student