testimonials

See what San Jose State University students have to say about The Business of Singing workshop!

thank you for caring about young artists and our futures

“It was such an amazing opportunity and I learned so much. It was very refreshing to receive concrete advice and guidance. Like many other singers, I came into this program feeling unmotivated and unsure about my future as a young artist. This program has given me valuable feedback and a renewed sense of passion towards my career. I feel truly fortunate to have been a part of the DIY Summer Program.Thank you for caring young artists and our futures!” —- Natalie Bodkin, soprano

i will cherish this experience

Thank you for putting together the DIY Summer Program and leading it with such infectious enthusiasm. Before we started the program I was in something of a musical rut, working on technique half-heartedly and feeling directionless in quarantine. Getting to have all our sessions gave me so much motivation to work on my career again and lit a fire under me to use this time to the best possible advantage! I learned a ton from all of the faculty members, especially in our Business of Singing classes, and I'm so grateful that you made this happen. I don't know how you did it, but you created something truly special and I will cherish this experience and group of people! Having such a warm, open, supportive atmosphere in which to learn and express myself and be honest about the challenges we are all facing was exactly what I needed. - Stephanie Feigenbaum, mezzo-soprano

game-changing, loving, supportive

“Cindy Sadler's DIY Program is game-changing. Any singer who feels nervous about learning the business side of art or doesn't know where to begin will find their place here! The environment is loving and supportive, yet challenges you enough to grow and become better. The lectures are fascinating and it is a great way for singers to gain confidence and know more of who we are! I've made many friends and am glad to have a safe space where it's okay to be yourself as you are and learn about your strengths. No other program balances the two sides of business and artistry as well as this one does- I recommend it to every singing artist out there!” - Carrie Moscoe, soprano

honest, inspiring, welcoming

“This program created solace in a time of chaos, and allowed me to be challenged, supported, and grow immensely as a person and artist. The past few days I have been looking back at what I have accomplished during my time in quarantine and I know I owe it all to the the incredible faculty, structure and support of this program. Thank you for being such an honest, inspiring and welcoming mentor and guide.” —- Hailey Cohen, mezzo-soprano

Engaging, informative, invaluable

Every second of the program was engaging and informative. Having the opportunity to speak with real artist managers, observing and participating in masterclasses given by people on opposite ends of the country, and hearing from a mental health expert during this crazy time were all invaluable experiences …The best value of this program lay in the Business of Singing Classes, the personal project groups, and the network of some six dozen fellow singers on the journey with me … I see my singing and my brand in an entirely new light thanks to this program, and I am excited to go forth into the real world and show it off. “ — Alannah K. Spencer, soprano