Jon Stancato is competant, colorful, and absolutely enamored with his craft. As my vocal coach, I have experienced Jon as attentive, lively, strongly encouraging, incredibly adaptable, nurturing, intelligent, fiery, unapologetically flawed, freakily discerning, and always honest. I have learned innumerable lessons from him, like how to make my own music, with no music theory training and only my amateurish ukulele skills to accompany me; How to listen for autotune, to help me unlearn my inhuman standard of perfect pitch, which I hear in so many artists I look up to; How to listen to the voice's cracks or pain or rasp as feedback, not failure - feeling strain while making a speech may just mean you don't like what you're saying; And how to shift my mindset from, "I want to train my voice," to, "I want to discover what my voice can do!" This last one has been particularly relevant for me. I came into lessons with Jon after years of learning to sing by imitation. The first time I sang for him, he said, "Your voice sounds amazing, but I don't feel anything!" I laughed and agreed. I had been wanting to understand why my singing never moved me in the way my favorite artists' did. I had tried to emulate artists Ella or Fiona Apple, tracing their path religiously to find the magic spark that made their voice and songwriting move me to tears. In the year I have worked with Jon, I learned that the path to this magic spark is not research or a bootcamp, but a path within. Jon helped me to realize that to sing as "well" as the artists I loved, I needed to put down the mirror I used to reflect THEIR emotions, and learn to tap into my own vulnerabilities, desires, and truths - to feel so deeply and proudly that when I open my mouth to sing, you could hear something from deep inside. Beyond singing, Jon always takes time to ask me to "tell him a life story." On rough days, we have spent an entire session simply talking. Jon cares about each issue so earnestly and will draw on his wide range of knowledge and resources to help, both practically and emotionally. He meets any pain, anxieties, and stucknesses with a steady balance of poking and holding: He knows how to catch limiting beliefs and provide resistance with simple and direct questions and observations; But, if I need to be simply heard and validated, he either already knows or will easily pivot. Jon is as boisterous as he is tender, as disciplined as he is fluid, as hamish as he is businesslike, and as playful as he is wise. I am beyond grateful to have him in my life as an artistic mentor, occasional shoulder to cry on, and all-around personal cheerleader, and I am excited for whoever gets to discover his magical musical menagerie next read more

Jonathan's vocal coaching is like nothing you've ever tried before - AND THAT'S WHY IT WORKS! It is life changing and voice transforming and I cannot recommend him highly enough. We have all taken countless voice lessons before and perhaps there were bits and pieces that were helpful, but I always found that it to be so HARD. I was working so hard to recreate the sounds, to raise my soft palate, create space, vibrato, placement, etc. (you know what I'm talking about...). One of the first things that blew my mind was how EASY it was - yes, I play (notice the word play and not work) with the exercises, but after working with Jonathan just two times, the first time I actually sung on stage difference blew my mind! I wasn't even thinking about it, and my voice had been transformed on a subconscious level, which is just crazy! The change was so apparent to me and it was so easy (because it just happened without me even realizing it). The other thing that was so very unique about this experience, was that the transformations that happened occurred quickly. After our first session, I noticed that my speaking voice had changed. It was more resonant, calm, and a truer expression of who I was. When have you ever felt that from a voice lesson? I had friends comment on it, I felt like I could control the flow of time with my voice and really experienced the impact of this when I was on stage. New people I met said something to me about how reassuring my voice sounded to them. Let me also add that these transformations run deep - this is an emotional experience, healing past trauma that directly affects your voice (who knew?) so these changes are not temporary or superficial. You are removing/healing deeply rooted obstacles so it will stay with you for your whole life. I am tempted to call this Jungian Voice Lessons as it is so much more than "just" voice lessons, affecting your emotional and psychological state as much as (if not more than) your voice. Take the plunge and call Jonathan - you will not be disappointed and even more, you will be surprised at the astonishing results! read more

I am so grateful to Jonathan and LOVE this place so much! Up to a year ago I thought I couldn't sing - I'd been told many times that I couldn't as a child, so I even felt like a fraud trying to sing twinkle twinkle to my firstborn (now 25). Then during my recent process of dream analysis, I felt like I needed to learn to sing and came across a sing a secret class. After many sing a secret classes, some workshops and voice lessons with various of the wonderful "pride" teachers, and a 3-day workshop with Jonathan (the Lab), I can sing.... and so much more. Jonathan taught me how to use my voice to release so many negative emotions I had stored up inside of me. It has changed the way I speak, and has changed me deeply. One morning waking up after an intense day of Lab I felt something physically had left my heart - it felt more open and expansive. Now, if I am dealing with frustration or tough emotions I go and free voice and can release those emotions in 10 or 20 mins. And I find myself singing whenever I feel joy or contentment. The Lab experience was amazing - I have never been among a group of 20 strangers who were so open and vulnerable and supportive of each other. The fact we were a very diverse group (age, race, gender, singing confidence) made it all the richer. Jonathan skillfully created a place where everyone seemed to feel safe enough to open up (to varying degrees as they felt comfortable). I appreciated, felt empathy with and learned something from everyone in the Lab. Jonathan created such a supportive space, meeting any discomfort with such authenticity and presence. I can't recommend Inside Voice enough. If you are unsure start with a free sing-a-secret, or any one of the workshops (karaoke to catharsis; belonging in song; indigenize your manifestations - each one I tried was wonderful) or a private lesson, anything offered! I wish everyone could have the chance to try this work, it is transformative in so many ways, and is all part of the change our world so sorely needs. read more

I am neither an artist, actor, singer, nor any type of entertainer, nor do I aspire to be one. I am also not on the senior executive ladder, nor am I a professor, attorney, or on any other path toward a professional role that requires public speaking skills. However, if any of these align with your ambitions, and if they don't, you should diligently make your way to Jon's studio and stay committed. He has the ability to tap into most aspects of your mind, brain, character, nervous system, personality, and life experiences to help create the best version of yourself, maximize your ability to engage with and enjoy the world, optimize your relationship with yourself, spark the deepest understanding of the world and humanity, and work the most fulfilling relationship with the world, using music and voice as the medium. Although, if your goal is to have fun singing, writing, playing some tunes, or just doing something new in your downtime, as was the case with me, then Jon is an extremely fun person to work with and will bring out and build just about any musical or artistic talent you choose, and you will discover some that you did not know exist. Additionally, every session can be a history lesson, as a random question about pitch can lead to an hour-long class on how the concept of sound developed in the West vs. in the East or why Snoop Dogg raps so slowly. I have conducted all kinds of training and experience grabbing conducted over decades and all over the world that span from the military to academics to executive leadership to random stuff like meditation and Wim Hoff. Working with Jon is as rewarding, critical to self-development, and transformational as any of these experiences, and he opened a new understanding of music, singing, and using my voice that I take joy using and will provide rewarding until I die. read more

I've worked with Jonathan for over two years now, and to simply call him a "voice coach" doesn't begin to capture who he is or the impact he has. Jonathan is a sage, a guide, a thought partner, an advocate for your dreams. He is equal parts alchemist, shaman, and magician. I've brought everything into our sessions together--musical aspirations, high-stakes business situations, even personal challenges--and each time, Jonathan has coached not only my voice but also my inner voice. He has a gift for helping you express yourself fully, clearly, and powerfully. There is no challenge too big or too small to bring to him. It's as if he has lived a hundred lives and can see both the big picture and the tender, intimate details of your own heart. Whether you are blissfully happy and looking to keep leveling up, or feeling lost and searching for clarity, Jonathan meets you exactly where you are and helps you move forward with confidence and ease. And if your dreams are specifically musical? He has the technical mastery to get your voice where it needs to go--whether that's Grammy-winning aspirations or simply the ability to sing around a campfire or speak with ease and joy. Jonathan's work goes far beyond technique. It's TRANSFORMATIVE. I am not the same person I was when I started working with him. And that's a really good thing. I cannot recommend Jonathan highly enough. Don't overthink this. Just do it. Your future self will thank you. read more

Jonathan Stancato is a miracle worker. He is also the most non-judgmental person I've encountered so far. Without addressing "problems" he creates a space in which I know I'm safe to expose parts of me and my voice that I've been hiding, and through giving those parts a chance to be seen and heard has opened my voice to wonderlands of potential: ability to choose subtle colors, dynamics and real power. I've had many teachers, some contributing a bit here and there, some not. Jonathan is a wholly different experience: he has a seemingly infinite wizard's magic box of techniques and processes and an acute awareness of what will be the most valuable focus in each moment. I stopped performing years ago after feeling that, no matter how much I studied, practiced and performed, I couldn't count on my voice and I just couldn't express what I truly wanted to. After two sessions and one Lab with Jonathan, I'm now sure that I can do pretty much anything I'd like to with my voice and that I'll definitely start performing again. AND, maybe best of all, I'm having so much fun singing and reveling in my new-found vocal prowess. I'm sure it's not possible to recommend Jonathan too highly. He is a great gift that I've allowed myself to receive. read more

Jon Stancato is an inspiring voice teacher, mentor, theatre director and coach. His voice series "Sing a Secret Song", inspired by Grotowski, Roy Hart and original techniques, plays with all parts of the voice - allowing the artist to explore old and new spaces. Very good for people trying to develop a relationship to their voice, find new qualities/vocal spaces or deepen resonance, connection and imagery in their creative work. The work is vulnerable in a good way. Jon is equal parts loving and specific. He creates a safe space in the early classes and will push you more and more as you advance in the training. He also blends in fun personal flair including aromatherapy, anecdotes and energetic body work (if you're into that sorta thing). This work is not traditional and it might feel weird. If you're new to vocal training, start here. If you've been at it for a while and are not getting the results you want, come here. Meditation, deepened sense of listening, community building, deeper understanding of self, getting out of your own head, feeling the pleasure of singing and sound - all with a kick ass teacher - what more could you ask for?? GO FOR IT! I'm glad I did! read more

Working with Jonathan has been a truly transformative experience. His approach to voice coaching goes far beyond the basics of singing; he delves into the deeper aspects of voice management, making each lesson a profound journey of self-discovery. From our very first session, I was challenged to improve my vocal technique and explore my personal emotions and experiences that influence my voice. Jonathan's insightful guidance and unique ability to connect the technical and emotional aspects of voice training have significantly impacted my development. Jonathan's dedication to creating a supportive and encouraging environment sets him apart. He pushes his students to reach their full potential while providing the perfect balance of challenge and support. Each lesson with Jonathan feels safe and motivating, allowing me to take risks and push my boundaries confidently. His patience, understanding, and holistic approach have strengthened my voice and boosted my confidence. If you're looking for a voice coach who will help you grow both personally and vocally, Jonathan is the ideal choice. Highly recommended! read more

Working with Jonathan was an extremely transformative experience. Though I do consider myself a singer, I didn't go to an Inside Voice retreat with that in mind. What called me to study with Jonathan was the potential for deep healing that is palpable in the work. After the free sing-a-secret workshop, I was filled with SO MUCH rich imagery, new sensations to digest, and a strong hunger to experience more opening like that. What I find most powerful about this voice work, is it's ability to highlight *and guide me through* limitations of self-consciousness and shame. It was a rigorous trust fall to live more freely with my joy, play, and self-acceptance... in front of strangers who were there to do the same. The retreat was a rite of passage I'd never had: there was a structure, a guide, a community of support, challenges that were terrifying, and the catharsis (sometimes subtle, sometimes dramatic) of trusting myself again and again into embodiment, connection, and honesty. Thank you Jonathan, your dedication and your skill is gorgeous :) read more

I have been working with Jonathan for a year so far and it has been continually transformative, incredibly rewarding and deeply moving. Our work together has been so impactful in exploring my relationships with my voice and with my sense of self. The two are reflected in one another and any practice and progress into one supports the other. That was a very wonderful surprise! I am not a professional singer but someone who has always enjoyed singing but was very shy and wanted to develop my voice and push through the limitations of my discomfort and my internal narratives. Jonathan is extremely supportive, patient, thoughtful, knowledgeable, wise, funny and kind. He really shows up, in every moment, and models the openness and bravery of being vulnerable, curious and loving towards yourself. Having the right person to show you the way forward, to guide you and support you, is invaluable. You begin to identify and hear your own voice more clearly. I wholeheartedly encourage anyone to work with him, your life will become the richer for it. read more

Having never had a voice lesson or formal training, I began to panic when I was cast in a show where I had to sing. I feared I didn't have the technique it takes to pull it off consistently. One session with Jon opened up a multitude of possibilities for what my voice has to offer. I walked out that day with a completely resonant voice that was not there when I walked in. I also left with the confidence that I actually have a beautiful voice within me, and a few techniques on how to relax enough to let it out. I have connected with my voice and found parts of it I didn't even realize existed. I love a spiritual journey and a voice class with Jon is definitely that. Mental and emotional blocks profoundly affect the voice and body. He is able to slowly whittle away at those blocks until you see how you can break through them. He is gentle and patient and approaches vocal technique as a whole body/soul experience. His energy is palpable and infectious. Book a session and you'll see what all these reviewers are raving about! read more

I highly recommend Jonathan if you desire to expand your vocal practice as a musician, artist, singer, actor or even outside of the performance arts. He values the human voice beyond the popular moniker as an "instrument" (ie an inanimate object or machine). He treats it as a holistic and organic experience of yourself. Rather than steer me toward the "best" or "ideal" sound, he helps me discover many different facets (e.g. volume, depth and richness) of my voice. He is knowledgeable. He has thoroughly investigated his own voice across different paradigms. Jonathan articulates well the different popular concepts of the voice, also introduces alternative concepts that he's practiced and explores how these may or may not be helpful to me and my own exploration. He is open to share parts of his own journey and is thoughtful to take care that my exploration may be the similar or different. He is able to meet you where you are. This provides an inviting environment when I am studying my voice and my relationship to it. read more

I can only say wonderful things about working with Jonathan and if you are looking for a voice coach that is not only expert at the craft, but cares about you and connects your voice work to your whole life for the better than look no further. We have been working together for a year. I was part of a speaker's collective and he was a guest at one of our meetings. He made a powerful impression from the start with his expansive view on voice, and my as a vehicle for expressing my message as a speaker. I am also one of those people who always said, "I cannot sing." And I love how part of my journey over this year has completely changed this mistaken belief. I no longer think in these black and white terms, rather I consider feeling pleasure in my voice. All but one of my sessions has been over the phone and while I wish I lived in NYC and could see him regularly in person, the phone has worked beautifully and I would not let get in the way of working with this amazing human! read more

I found Jonathan online and decided to pursue "finding my voice" with him once I started reading all of the amazing reviews people had left. I found it only fair to write a review of my own since it helped me discover him. Without going into too much of a rant, he's amazing at what he does. Words will never explain the impact he's already had on not only my voice but also my life. I considered myself a good singer to begin with but through his private lessons and his Inside Voice Lab Intensive program, I discovered that it's from the inside; (my whole body) I didn't have to force my voice I just needed to understand it. I'm on this amazing journey with him now to understand who "I am" and it's been quiet marvelous!!! In the little amount of time I've worked with him so far he's changed my life so I can't wait to see what's next in our vocal journey.    I hope this review supports your decision in choosing Jonathan as your vocal/life teacher, you won't regret it! read more

I first encountered Jon about a year ago for a Sing a Secret session, and even in that one afternoon got a taste for the possibility of my voice. In both the group and private settings, Jon is remarkably warm, inviting, sensitive and encouraging. He creates a safe space for sound, and has a sharp, refreshing ability to see each individual's vocal instrument, always conscious of the emotional and mental impacts of his exercises as well. It's a far cry from many other studio voice classes I have taken, as they can sometimes veer toward manipulation for the sake of catharsis. Jon has such a brilliant transparency, and is willing to collaborate with you on your voice goals. Whether you're an experienced singer looking to shake off old habits, or someone looking to connect with their voice for the first time, it is fun, surprising, and very empowering work! I leave my sessions buzzing with vibrations in places I forgot existed in my body. Thank you Jon! read more

I've had two lessons with Jon so far, and he is another level. In our second lesson, he led me into technique territory I had never heard of, and I've had a few other voice teachers over some years. Jon has completely transformed my vocal world. I now call him my vocal-soul sensei :). Because with Jon, it's more than a voice lesson .. it's a meeting with who you are, so that you can deliver your fullest self and most genuine emotions through your voice. ..it's a healing, and it's a method of continuous healing and self-recognition. Thx to his guidance and keen senses, I am now making sounds I had never heard myself make with that much volume. It's the first time I've separated the concept of vocal range from esophagus length. No such thing as head voice and chest voice. Highly intriguing concept and I gettit now and he's right. Mind blown. So grateful. I highly recommend this experience. read more

Jonathan is a rare combination of exceptionally talented, remarkably generous, deeply kind, wise, and funny. After being told by my fourth grade choir teacher it would be better if I... "didn't sing", whatever joy or confidence I had in my singing voice was crushed. Almost 50 years later I reached out to Jonathan and have never looked back. Jonathan doesn't work on the level of symptom. He gets to the source each and every lesson. The thing about voice lessons with Jonathan is that my whole life shows up in the room. My grief, joy, exuberance, wonder, fear, anxiety, gratitude. All me edges. All my limiting beliefs. It takes a lot to trust someone with our most vulnerable parts. Jonathan never rushed me, always supported me, and in the most lovingly direct way continues to give me back to myself. Voice lessons with Jonathan are magical, meaningful, and absolute must in my book. read more

I've been working with Jonathan every two weeks for nearly a year (21 sessions) and I can say without exaggeration that it has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I came to him singing light Irish folk and soprano church music. Through working together, we discovered I have a powerful rock voice. I genuinely had no idea. I also came to him with debilitating stage fright. That is gone. I performed the concert of my dreams with unshakable presence. What makes Jonathan exceptional isn't just his technical skill, although that is real and serious. It's that he works with the whole person. He 'sees' you in a way that is rare. Something about his presence and his approach creates the conditions for genuine change, not just vocal improvement. If you're looking for a teacher who will help you find your real voice, and I mean that in more than one sense, Jonathan is extraordinary. read more

I am not a singer, actor, or other profession that typically uses voice coaching. I work with Jon because he has taught me that we all deserve to discover our voice and find out all of the amazing things it can do. I was terrified to start my coaching but quickly discovered that Jon had NO judgements, like really none. He has an incredible way of making everything fun and joyful even when asking me to stretch beyond my comfort zone. It's so worth it though because I have heard incredibly beautiful sounds come out my mouth. I never thought I could do that, but I did. It's very empowering. What I love the most is how I feel after a session with Jon. I'm basically flying out of the building ready to shout from the mountain tops how good I feel. It's a true energy clearing and all of my chakras are open and spinning. Jon is an excellent teacher, healer, guide and an incredibly unique voice coach. read more