Classical Singer & Master's Degree Graduate Vocal Coach Offering Singing Lessons for All Levels

Find out more about Metehan

• When did you first develop a passion for music and your favourite instrument?

  I first developed a real passion for music when I was in high school and joined an a cappella choir. That was when I realised how much I enjoyed singing and making music with other people. I eventually started studying music more seriously and became an opera singer. My favourite instrument, though, is the piano. I love how versatile it is and how useful it can be for understanding harmony, melody and music as a whole.

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

  Definitely opera, especially arias sung by Luciano Pavarotti. I can listen to him over and over again and still find something new in his voice every time. His combination of technique, warmth and natural musicality is something I never get tired of listening to.

• Explain to us the most difficult or 'riveting' lesson you could personally give to one of your students.

  One of the most interesting lessons for me is when I have to help a student who struggles with tongue tension or posture. These problems can be surprisingly difficult because students are often not even aware that they are doing it. I usually break everything down into very simple exercises, helping them understand what a relaxed and balanced position actually feels like. The best part is seeing that moment when they suddenly feel the difference and realise, "Oh, that's how it is supposed to feel!" Those moments are very rewarding for me as a teacher.

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

  I would probably say string instruments, especially the violin. The fact that they are fretless makes developing accurate intonation extremely challenging, especially while maintaining a consistent bow technique. There are so many technical details to master, and even very small adjustments in your hand position, bowing or pressure can completely change the sound. I find that combination of technical precision and musical expression fascinating.

• What are your keys to success?

  For me, consistency is probably the most important one. You don't necessarily have to be the most talented person in the room, but if you keep working, keep learning and don't give up when things get difficult, you will eventually improve. I also think you need to genuinely enjoy what you are doing. In music especially, you can really tell when someone loves what they do.

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

  Jonas Kaufmann would definitely be one of them. I would love to have a long conversation with him about opera, singing and how he has developed his career.
  
  Eric Whitacre would be another one. As someone who has spent a lot of time singing in choirs, I would love to talk to him about choral music and his approach to writing for voices.
  
  And Arvo Pärt. I know this is probably the least realistic one, but if I could choose anyone, I would love to talk to him about composition, minimalism and his approach to creating such a distinctive musical language.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your musical journey, or your days at 'music school'.

  One thing I learned quite early in my musical training is that progress is not always obvious from one day to the next. I remember working on a particular vocal problem for quite a long time and feeling like I was getting nowhere. Then, one day, something just clicked. It wasn't because I had suddenly learned a completely new technique; I had simply been working consistently and my body had finally understood it.
  
  That experience has stayed with me as a teacher. Sometimes a student feels that they are not improving, when in fact they are much closer than they think. It has taught me to be patient with the process and to encourage my students to trust it.

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

  I think patience is one of the most important things. Every student learns differently, and I don't believe there is one method that works for everyone. I try to understand the person in front of me and adapt my teaching to them.
  
  And probably the biggest thing is that I genuinely love what I do. I still get excited when a student finally achieves something they have been struggling with, whether it's a difficult note, a new piece or simply becoming more confident. I think that enthusiasm is something you can pass on to your students.