” Victoria transformed my voice from a breathy, unbalanced tone into a full, rich sound, like a caterpillar into a butterfly. Before I met her, I was paralyzed with fear and had no confidence when singing. She discovered my true voice that I never knew I had. My goal was to learn proper breathing technique and gain more confidence singing folk songs. And here I am now, 1 year later, singing arias from Carmen! Thank you, Victoria! “

Helena Safarova, Dramatic Mezzo-Soprano
from the Walnut Creek area

” I have been a student of Victoria Rapanan for 3 1/2 years, and am still enjoying every minute of it! Whether you are a hobbyist or professional singer, whether you sing opera, classical or Broadway, you owe it to yourself to work with her. You can be 16 or 80 years old – age is not a barrier. It is the desire to sing that is of importance. Even if you are shy or have great fear of performing in public, she is there to help, and before you know it, you are singing like a pro and loving it! She never pushes, although she challenges her students. Victoria never stops learning new and scientific methods and imparts it to her students. Singing and the teaching of it is her life. She is patient, communicates well, and is a firm, but compassionate person. “

Virgil Siacunco, Dramatic Tenor
from the Walnut Creek area

” As a beginning student, I have spent years as a casual soprano in various chorus and church choirs. Yet this teacher, without making you feel self conscious, encourages strength, clarity and the challenge of learning the truth about singing well. I have only participated in 1 course of instruction, but plan on many more, as she expertly coaxes the pure “Joy of Singing” in my heart and from my being. “

Sandy Jones, Soprano
(a current member of the John Muir/ Mt. Diablo Health Systems Volunteer Chorus)
from the Walnut Creek area