Alvina R.

Alvina is a talented soprano vocalist and pianist who has had an extensive career as a music teacher, choral director, lecturer, music therapist, performer, and recording artist.

Her earliest memories are of singing songs she heard on the radio, at three years old, to anyone who would listen. Not long after that, Alvina began performing solo at all kinds of special occasions. Alvina's early life as a performer culminated at the age of seventeen when she appeared as the High Priestess in Verdi’s Aida. She landed this role as a member of the Cosmopolitan Opera Company, now the Philadelphia Opera Company, and she went on to perform in a number of their other operas.

Alvina attended Combs College of Music in Philadelphia where she received her Bachelor's degree in Music Education, and later her Master's in Vocal Performance. In graduate school, she received awards for both performance and academics. She began vocal studies with Harriet Versaci at the Settlement of Music in Philadelphia who encouraged Alvina to seek a career in music. She continued her studies with Dr. Howard Hanies of Combs College, Klara Meyers of Temple University, and Dolores Ferraro of Immaculata College. She also earned her music therapy certification while at Immaculata College.

Alvina is a seasoned performer and music therapist, but her talents don't stop there. She is also a recording artist. Her albums and recordings include Songs Through the Ages, Noel, and Walk with Me. Last but certainly not least, Alvina is an experienced teacher, choral director, and lecturer. She has been teaching for over 35 years. She was the director and piano and voice teacher at Rosemont College for ten years. She also dabbles in musical theatre and modern jazz performances as a vocal coach and director. She has assembled and directed musicals like Oliver, West Side Story, The Wiz, as well as other musicals, classical recitals, and concerts.

Alvina has been pulled to teaching through her desire to assist other people of all ages in preparing for auditions, establishing and maintaining professional music careers, or just for the fun of learning. She feels that joy, fun, and exposure are key to learning about the music one has within them. Each student learns differently, has different interests, and often has untapped talents. Alvina starts each of her students where they are in regards to age, music experience, and interests. She designs an individual program for her students in order to help them reach their goals. She is also happy to create specialized programs for students who have Autism and for those with physical and mental deficits who need more of a music therapy approach.