Our Teachers

Adam Wood

Beginning his career as baritone at the age of sixteen, Adam Wood has now diverted his attention to the Armstrong School of Singing where he is founder and head vocal coach. Having performed some of the most challenging of lead roles in a variety of theatrical and opera companies around Melbourne – Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Victoria, Park Players and Melbourne Opera – Adam Wood is irrefutably gifted, talented and highly passionate.

Adam has also performed as a soloist, his portfolio encompassing a range of covers and originals throughout Melbourne and in the alternative band – Sound Scape.

In 2006, Adam commenced the change to tenor, subsequently appearing as a soloist in concerts and recitals – both in Australia and overseas, highlighted by the invitation to sing at the Spring Friendship Art Festival, North Korea.

Adam's absolute success has been evidenced by his high achievement in countless vocal competitions, including:

• Finalist at the John Tallis Classical singing Competition
• Twice Finalist at the Armstead Singing Award
• Twice Finalist at the Robert Salzer Aria Championship
• Three times Semi-Finalist at the Herald Sun Aria

A diverse background, Adam Wood studied singing and voice across many genres for over 17 years. Having worked with a variety of teachers – including Daniel Ferro (Juilliard School of Music); Jan Philip Schultze (Germany); Robert Kopelson (USA); Bruno Rigacci (Italy); and, Gary May (Australia) – Adam is uniquely positioned as both singer and head vocal coach.

It was, however, during his extensive work with the late international Heldentenor Jon Weaving (Australia) that Adam's passion for teaching and helping others on their vocal journey was realised.

Truly passionate about teaching and firmly believing anyone can sing well, Adam applies a no-nonsense approach to vocal instruction. This perspective begins right from the fundamentals of singing and is also applied to any genre or music style he teaches.

 

Alyssa Walton

A graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (2005) and the National Theatre Ballet School (2002), Alyssa joins us as a triple threat performer and teacher with an extensive background in performing arts. Alyssa began her extensive vocal training with Swedish soprano Monique Brynnel and Danielle Matthews before studying under the guidance of Adam Wood at Armstrongs School of Singing where she is now a valued member of the faculty.

Known and respected both locally and internationally, Alyssa has performed in New York with the Ajkun ballet Theatre and in Japan at Tokyo Disney Resort.Back on home soil, her professional appearances range from theatre to television. Musical theatre credits include 'The King and I' (The Production Company) and the title role in the national tour of 'Cinderella' (Alpha Shows). Alyssa has appeared on numerous TV shows and commercials including: Ski Yogurt, The Pacific, Rush, and Neighbours. Other notable live performance credits include, 'Dr Who Symphony spectacular' (BBC worldwide and Melbourne Symphony Orchestra) and 'Tomb Raider Anniversary LIVE' as the title character Lara Croft.Starring as a guest artist in numerous local concerts, Alyssa has also professionally recorded a variety of musical theatre classics with MOVE records, accompanied by acclaimed Musical Director and accompanist Adrian Portell.

Her teaching experience ranges across all performing arts and previously includes teaching in primary schools and as a performing arts coach for Clubhouze Australia. Alyssa enjoys sharing her passion for singing with new students and helping them to discover the true potential of their voice.

 

Amy Evans

Originally from Toowomba, Amy commenced her musical training from a young age, studying violin, piano and viola, leading to successful appearances in a number of local events and eistedfodds.Whilst still at high school, her many accolades included winning 'best vocal performance award' at the Wakakerrifestival, lead vocalist for jazz ensemble 'Be bop' performing at various charity events including 'Relay for Life' and appearing in 'Grease' in the role of Rizzo.

In 2004 Amy began studying singing with Catherine Adey and shortly after performed in numerous productions including the Wizard of Oz, Sweet Charity and Annie in the role of Miss Hannigan.

It was Amy's passion for singing and performance that brought her to Melbourne in 2009, where she began studying singing with renowned Swedish soprano Monique Brynnel before furthering her study's in 2011 under the tuition of Adam Wood. Since then Amy has performed and recorded original works and covers around Melbourne, both as a soloist and in collaborationacross various musical genres (RnB, jazz, pop and house).

A qualified personal trainer, Amy has a strong passion for teaching and hopes to further extend her craft through pursuing a Masters in Music Therapy. A valuable member of the teaching staff at Armstrongs school of singing, Amy hopes to share her experience and enthusiasm with aspiring young performers.