Doctor of Vocal Performance/Voice Professor, Teaches All Levels from Kids to Adults.

Learn more about Fei

• 1) When did you first develop a passion for music and your favorite instrument?

  Music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My mother is a singer, so I grew up surrounded by melodies, rehearsals, and performances. I started learning to sing at a very young age-imitating my mom, performing at school, and gradually developing a love for vocal expression that only grew stronger with time. Now, as a professional opera singer, assistant director, and voice professor with a doctorate in vocal performance, I can confidently say the voice is my favorite instrument. It's deeply personal, incredibly expressive, and constantly evolving-it grows as you do.

• 2) Is there a particular type of music or artist that you listen to on a loop without it driving you crazy?

  As an opera performer and university teacher, I work across many vocal styles-classical, musical theatre, crossover, and more-so my playlists are always diverse. That said, I could listen to Renée Fleming, Jonas Kaufmann, or Audra McDonald on repeat and still feel inspired. Their voices combine technical brilliance with emotional honesty, which is exactly what I hope to help my students achieve. I also enjoy listening to Sondheim musicals or classic lieder-they never get old.

• 3) Explain to us the most difficult or riveting course you could personally give to a student of music.

  One of the most rewarding courses I offer is dramatic song and aria interpretation. I guide singers through everything from breath and technique to language, character, and emotional expression. With my dual background as both a performer and assistant opera director, I help students understand the full dramatic arc of a piece. I also specialize in helping beginners or crossover singers build a solid foundation quickly. Watching a student discover their own artistic voice is always the most riveting part.

• 4) What do you think is the most complicated instrument to master and why?

  The voice-without question. It lives inside your body, and it's affected by your health, emotions, energy, and environment. There are no strings to adjust or keys to press; it's all internal. You have to learn to coordinate your breath, posture, mindset, and intention all at once. Mastering it requires not just practice, but deep self-awareness and emotional intelligence. But that's also why it's so powerful and beautiful.

• 5) What are your keys to success?

  Experience, empathy, and adaptability. I've worked with singers of all ages and backgrounds-from absolute beginners to young professionals. My training is extensive, but I never teach from ego. Instead, I focus on helping each student reach their goals efficiently and joyfully. I believe in building a safe, encouraging space where learning feels exciting-not intimidating. Also, I love finding the quickest, clearest path to progress. It's not about how long you've studied-it's about learning how to listen, think, and feel musically.

• 6) Name three musicians you dream of meeting in your favourite bar in the early hours of the morning. Explain why.

  Maria Callas - I'd love to hear her thoughts on vulnerability and vocal expression-how she brought such emotional depth to her roles.
  
  Stephen Sondheim - I'd want to talk about character, subtext, and the way he uses melody to reflect psychological complexity.
  
  Cecilia Bartoli - She's bold, creative, and a master of reinvention. I'd be fascinated to hear about her approach to stylistic authenticity.

• 7) Provide a valuable anecdote related to music or your days at music school.

  During my doctoral studies, I was juggling a major recital and assisting on a full opera production. There was one week where I barely slept, doubting whether I could handle both roles. But the experience taught me that performing and directing are deeply connected-thinking like a director made me a better singer, and vice versa. Now, I often bring that dual perspective into my teaching, helping students not only sing well but understand their dramatic choices and stage presence.

• 8) What are the little touches that make you a Superprof in music?

  I bring a rare combination of professional performance experience, directing insight, and academic training. I specialize in helping students make quick, meaningful progress-especially those who feel stuck or intimidated by traditional voice training. I meet each singer where they are, and build them up with clear technique, artistic context, and emotional support. My lessons are focused, encouraging, and always shaped by what the student needs most at that moment. I love helping people feel confident and expressive in their own voice.