The MasterClass is a seasonal, in-person workshop where your material is used for focused coaching and refinement.
Coaching sharpens presence, clarifies expression, and strengthens control through direct application.
In the MasterClass, βperformerβ includes singers, speakers, presenters, and anyone who uses their voice. Your piece may be a song, speech, presentation, pitch, monologue, or other prepared work.
Itβs about engaging with what happens when your voice is in use, responding in the moment, and strengthening control through adjustment.
What Happens in a MasterClass
The MasterClass is a guided workshop centred on active participation and coaching. You present your pieces one at a time within the structured session format.
A live musician (pianist or guitarist) provides accompaniment throughout the session.
Observers attend to learn by watching performances and listening to the coaching process in real time.
We move through multiple performances with coaching and brief discussion, keeping the work active and the learning visible.
β¨ Why My MasterClass Works
The MasterClass brings prepared work into a structured performance setting where material is observed, coached, and refined in real time.
Preparation has its limits. Skills strengthen through use, not isolation. The MasterClass is a structured environment where work is applied, feedback is integrated, and progress moves forward.
π Real World Examples
For singers
Singing the full piece without stopping to fix a missed note.
Continuing after a crack or slip instead of restarting.
You start a song in the wrong key and self-correct as you go without stopping.
For speakers
Youβre asked to speak unexpectedly and have to find your voice on the spot.
Speaking without scripting every sentence in advance.
Recovering smoothly after losing your train of thought.
βοΈ How It Works
Each MasterClass has a limited number of performer spots, so you have adequate time to present your work and receive focused coaching.
You prepare your pieces in advance and bring them into the MasterClass session environment. Preparation details, format, and timing are outlined in the MasterClass Prep Guide. You arrive oriented and prepared.
πΆ Musical Accompaniment
Each MasterClass features a live musician (pianist or guitarist).
Singers (not self-accompanying)
If you are singing and not accompanying yourself, you must use the featured musician for live accompaniment for both of your pieces.
Bring printed sheet music for the musician.
Singers who self-accompany
If you sing and play an instrument, you may accompany yourself.
If you choose, you may also bring a chart so you and the featured musician can perform together.
Speakers, presenters, and actors
Live musical accompaniment is optional.
If you choose to work with the featured musician, bring printed sheet music or a chart.
Music preparation
Do not email or send sheet music in advance.
Bring all music with you on the day of the MasterClass.
Venue notes
The church has a piano.
You may bring your own guitar and amp if needed. The sanctuary has excellent acoustics.
Details are outlined in the MasterClass Prep Guide.
π₯ Ways to Participate
There are two ways to participate in the MasterClass:
π€ Performer
You bring material and work through it in the MasterClass. This option includes live coaching and real-time adjustment within the structured performance setting. Participation may include singing, speaking, spoken word, storytelling, acting, comedy, presentations, or any format where your voice is central.
π Observer
You attend without presenting material and learn through observation. Observers follow the same working process by watching performances, tracking adjustments, and listening to the coaching exchanges. At times, you may be invited to reflect, ask questions, or share observations.
Performer spots are limited. Observer spots are available where space allows.
All participants must register in advance.
For minor performers, one parent or legal guardian may attend as an observer at no additional cost. Additional observers must register separately.
Prefer to Talk First?
If you want to ask a question before booking, book a free 15-minute discovery call.
π Booking & Scheduling
Sessions take place at Kimbourne Park United Church (Coxwell & Danforth) and run from 1:30β3:30 PM EST on select Sundays.
Each MasterClass has a limited number of performer spots, ensuring adequate time for each performance and coaching exchange.
When you book the MasterClass as a Performer or Observer and complete payment, your spot is confirmed. All participants must register in advance. Drop-ins are not available.
After registration, youβll receive confirmation and preparation details.
With just one session, not only have my speech skills improved but my perspective has also shifted as I look toward elevating my public speaking career. Carolyn creates a safe, encouraging, and courageous space to develop your voice. It was a fun, informative, and impactful session! Will definitely continue to work with her!
If you had told me my vocal ability would improve after just one session, I might not have believed you – but that is exactly what I experienced!!!! Carolyn is truly a vocal sensei, a master at her craft who helps us move past the limits we place on ourselves! Thank you Carolyn!
Carolyn IS a Sensei! Truly a Master at her craft. I felt right at home and comfortable working with her right out of the gateβ¦ so much so, she nearly fell out of her chair when I told her in our 1st session βI TRUST YOUβ.
Iβve been singing for awhile, but Iβve known of Carolynβs work for years and I always knew I would call upon her when I needed help. Iβm sure glad I did!
Carolyn IS a Sensei! Truly a Master at her craft. I felt right at home and comfortable working with her right out of the gateβ¦ so much so, she nearly fell out of her chair when I told her in our 1st session βI TRUST YOUβ.
Iβve been singing for awhile, but Iβve known of Carolynβs work for years and I always knew I would call upon her when I needed help. Iβm sure glad I did!
Carolyn has been coaching my 8 year old and I see a vast improvement in her confidence and vocal development. I sometimes can't believe my ears when I hear her singing. She's also learning a variety of music styles to the point of asking me to spin some ole skool music for her. I like that the program is goal driven and progress is measured. Credit to Carolyn for really taking her under her wings.
Carolyn is a great public speaking teacher! I am really excited for our sessions together as I am learning a lot of great skills I have been able to use in my speaking engagements!
Carolyn Thompson is a TEDx speaker, a singer and vocal performance coach. She also happens to rent office space at The Workaround. Iβve heard Carolyn with her students, so as I struggled this week to get the tone and pacing of my talk right, I asked to hire her for an hour. I figured even though I donβt need formal acting lessons to give a presentation, simply running through my talk with a pro would be a good use of time.
WELL. Here is a story of me going in with not many expectations and being totally blown away by talent. Itβs a wonder why Carolyn isnβt booked up for months. In just 45 minutes not only did she give me tools for memorization that actually stuck in my brain, but she taught me skills I had never heard of before. And I give talks A LOT. I thought I knew what I was doing. But I was WRONG.
I have a better understanding of how to not jumble my words, to punch consonants and breathe correctly. I understand what it means to present confidence and really feel your words. Carolyn did that for me. I repeat, IN ONE SESSION. I had to hire her again this week so I could get even better at perfecting my delivery.
If you are preparing for a talk, even virtually, I HIGHLY recommend a virtual hour with Carolyn. She brought my talk to the next level. I am more confident for filming than I ever was, and this is saying a lot given Iβve been in lockdown with two sick kids and solo parenting and trying to manage a business from home. I was sure Iβd be screwing this whole thing up. But Carolyn truly helped me, beyond what I thought, and I was reminded to ditch the whole "I'm an expert and have got this" ego. I went into a learning session willing, but not expecting, to be molded, and I was TRANSFORMED. Do it. Hire Carolyn. The end <3
Carolyn is wonderful. I enrolled my 9 year old daughter to for her singing class. She truly enjoys every moment. Great energy. Thanks for a start to a wonderful vocal experience.
I have been working with Carolyn for the last few months and love it. I look forward to every session. My singing background isn't substantial but its something I really wanted to do and she has helped me get out of my own way, which is such a great feeling and allows me to do things I never thought you could. I learn something at every session and I am able to apply it in real life musical situations. Thanks Carolyn for your patience, understanding, humor and of course being my Sensai! when its time to get to work!
I've had one lesson with Carolyn. Within 20 mins I was belting out notes that I have never been able to before. She's amazing, warm and a truly gifted teacher. I will be going back. οΏ½
My daughter had her first lesson with Carolyn and was at first quite nervous but by the end of just that first lesson was singing louder and with more confidence! I'm impressed! Carolyn is a very fun and informative instructor. My daughter is looking forward to additional lessons with Carolyn!
A great teacher! I am on my sixth course with Carolyn, and itβs been fun, and I have been learning so much. She is a passionate singer and knows how to share that passion. I am always excited for my next lesson! Thank you Carolyn.
Carolyn is not only a person I love with all my heart for many reasons but she is a great singer and an amazing vocal coach.
Some years ago I tried to sing, tried get rid of the thought of me never freeing my voice. At the time I couldn't due to many circumstances, work and so. Even when I couldn't make the best out of my classes with her, I kept her advices stuck in my head.
Today, I can proudly say I am a singer too in a touring act and the only vocal couch I've ever had helped me to do so even when she was not there.
Now, don't tell this to Carolyn or she will rooster up.
Carolyn is an amazingly positive person, who really makes you feel at ease. Singing in front of people can already be stressful, but she helps you through it making the entire experience enjoyable. She really is a fantastic coach!
Carolyn has a way bringing the best out of her students. Her method of teaching is a fusion of technique and practicality that is challenging as well as rewarding. On top of all of that, she is an absolute delight in lessons! Carolyn can help you realize the voice that you've had inside yourself all along, and she can teach you how to embrace your own voice in order to build up your confidence so you can share it. Carolyn sees music and singing as an act of storytelling. No better time than now to start listening to her stories and learn how to effectively tell your own.
Carolyn has a way bringing the best out of her students. Her method of teaching is a fusion of technique and practicality that is challenging as well as rewarding. On top of all of that, she is an absolute delight in lessons! Carolyn can help you realize the voice that you've had inside yourself all along, and she can teach you how to embrace your own voice in order to build up your confidence so you can share it. Carolyn sees music and singing as an act of storytelling. No better time than now to start listening to her stories and learn how to effectively tell your own.
Carolyn is a true professional. I noticed results after only one session with Carolyn, all through her unique vocal teaching methods. I would recommend Vocal Euphoria coaching to anyone who wants to improve their vocal and live performance abilities
Carolyn is a true professional. I noticed results after only one session with Carolyn, all through her unique vocal teaching methods. I would recommend Vocal Euphoria coaching to anyone who wants to improve their vocal and live performance abilities
Carolyn T is a fantastic vocal coach! She walks you through each step with great detail, and really allows you to feel comfortable stepping out of your shell as a beginner. She is very patient with her students, and you really do see an improvement in your vocals after one session with her! I enjoyed the break-down of the singing process, and then piecing everything that you've learned together at the end of the lesson. I definitely recommend Carolyn T!
I only had the one lesson with Carolyn, but it definitely won't be my last. She has a wonderfully warm energy and makes you feel comfortable and at ease. The space in her home is inviting and open. More to the point – this is about singing lessons and I felt that, even though it was only the first lesson, I would be able to learn so much from her. I am excited to sign up for more.
Carolyn coached me five years ago just before I went into the studio for the first time to do some recording with my band, and she was tremendous help as I tried to capture my voice and sound. Now that I have an opportunity to sing again – often and publicly, I knew I needed Carolyn's help again. Her techniques and her style have helped me move my voice to new places, and more than anything else, she has helped me get out of my own way to let my style and talent shine thorough. I would highly recommend Carolyn to anyone who wanted voice or performance training – she's the best.
Patient, supportive and a good reader of character. Every session I've had with Carolyn Thompson has developed my confidence, voice and listening skills. She has helped me focus on my ideas so that I can better prepare myself for public speaking events.
It is an amazing experience and Carolyn definitely knows what she does. Absolutely recommend to all those who want to learn to sing or enhance their voice at the professional level. She is absolutely fantastic both as a coach and as a person.
I loved working with Carolyn! She helped me harness my craft as a Singer and as a Songwriter. She knows your potential and ensures that you do your best to reach it. She also helped me with my first Stand Up Comedy set and with her help I was able to perform GREAT on stage.
Thanks Carolyn!
Carolyn has been instrumental in my development as an artist. Her coaching helped build and refine my skills in singing and delivering my own written music. Her exercises and ability to fine tune my sound with clear advice, and focus me mentally for performances was very helpful. She's also friendly. Your extreme skill and knowledge is inspiring. Thanks a lot!
I look after my daughter's young band, Lightning the Band. A group of shy youngsters with a serious love of music. I was desperately trying to find someone who could coach them musically, as well as with respect to stage presence. Being pretty new to this "manager" of the band type situation, I didn't know where to turn. A good friend suggested I contact Carolyn Thompson. What a session!! She got those kids who were almost too nervous to even speak, to actually start singing and moving. It was an awesome experience. She achieved so much with them is short time available. We were very happy with her abilities and the whole experience. I give her a huge THUMBS UP and 6 stars out of 5! Thanks Carolyn Thompson from Celeste Segal and Lightning the Band!
Wow!
Simply WOW!
As an entertainment photographer I was invited to shoot a couple of classes.
During my career as an entertainment photographer, I have seen hundreds of singers in bands, solo artist, spoken word as well as A Capella.
I have always admired someone stepping up in front of an audience, and have a deep appreciation for talent. After so many shows/performances, I believe I am good at spotting true talent over forced. Those who are at ease over those struggling to stay on stage.
Since being able to witness first hand what it takes to truly perform vocally, I am now so much more aware of the effort put in by performers since attending these classes. I have personally witnessed Carolyn's coaching and suggestions, and have seen much improvement in those students who have taken to heart her lessons.
I believe Carolyn to be not only a thorough instructor, but sensitive and observing of each individual she works with, pinpointing exactly that which could use some work, while at the same time uplifting and praising that which the student already has.
Should I ever be so inclined to put my own voice on the line, it is good to know I have a friend in Carolyn who will most certainly help me bring out my best. Knowing my best may not be on par with other performers is not Carolyn's approach, but magnifying and helping one realize each persons own ABILITY most certainly is. Helping these students truly feel comfortable with what they as individuals bring to the 'table' is of the greatest importance, in my opinion, based on what I have witnessed. Building confidence in a room with others present is certainly an amazing tool which Carolyn has truly mastered, and- it works!
π Related Resources
Want more details? You can explore additional resources here:
