First I will go over the negatives. The price is expensive and there is not a lot of parking. That being said Mr. Shimizu is an exceptional teacher. He is very knowledgeable and flexible in his approach, if I struggled with a concept he would work with me and use different training techniques to help. My observation is that his top priority is making sure his students sing correctly in a way that is safe. This is to me important since due to this your throat does not get damaged. Singing used to hurt my throat but it doesn't do that anymore. I can sing songs that were very difficult for me before and I can sing them comfortably which makes it much more enjoyable to me. He is very knowledgeable and knows a wide variety of techniques. I never knew how intricate and cool singing was before. You learn how you can tailor your voice for the situation and style (pop, musical theater, and opera) I like how he uses the biological perspective and explains what actually is physically going on in your body when you sing. He is very professional and very patient. I have never seen him look impatient or lose his temper with me. If he ever feels impatient if I don't get something right away he must be very good at hiding it because I don't see any signs in his face, voice, or body language. My impression is that he is analyzing what the student is doing and thinking of how best to approach to help the student reach his goal. Some teachers get angry and upset at their students when they can't get the information across. Mr. Shimizu notices something is not connecting, he identifies the problem, and works out a solution. He is very supportive. He is not a laid back teacher who doesn't care, but a professional who challenges me and I think he is very passionate about what he does. He loves teaching and he loves the field he is in, that combination is not always easy to find in instructors and I always feel lucky when I come across one. He is a very high caliber voice instructor, people look around for good teachers, but it is hard to tell who is good. I feel immensely lucky to have found quality instruction. He is an excellent teacher and the content of what he teaches is excellent. I have the joy of singing and my life is much richer for it. read more

First the negative aspects: The price is high, parking can be difficult to find and what is there can fill up quickly. Now that being said I believe Mr. Shimizu is a very good teacher. He is very knowledgeable and makes safety and comfort for your throat a top priority. This to me is very important since I do not want to learn singing in a way that would cause pain or damage my voice box in the long run. He looks at singing from many angles including a biological standpoint (meaning muscle groups and what physically in occurring in your body as you sing) This really makes it a lot clearer for me with what I am trying to do and how I can reach my goal. He has a lot of knowledge about different styles of singing and how to approach each type effectively. I believe he is a higher grade of teacher than a lot of other voice teachers you may find due his knowledge, his intelligent approach, and his style of teaching. He is very patient and very intuitive to what his student needs to understand and apply a concept or technique. I am not the quickest learner but he was not ever impatient and never lost his temper with me once. I have had impatient teachers in the past, if he ever feels impatient he must be very good at hiding it because I never read anything on his face or body language. He works with me at a pace I can follow, though he challenges me to keep moving forward. He is not an overly laid back teacher who doesn't really care. He is not a passive teacher. He is very professional and cares about what he teaches and you can tell he has a love of teaching and imparting knowledge to his students. My voice has improved immensely from what it was when I started out. I am involved in performances and my voice has become a useful asset for me. And he has really helped me find the joy of singing. I have grown to love singing and I would never have gotten to the place I have without his guidance. I strongly recommend him, he is an exceptional teacher and he loves what he does. I am moving to DC for school and it has been difficult to locate a teacher of the same caliber as Craig. read more

My daughter who is 9years old, takes singing lessons from Craig. He is so amazing! She love singing and she looks forward to her lessons that she takes twice a week. Craig is an excellent teacher because he teaches her the fundamental skills for singing like breathing, using her diaphragm and the Mosk method which has helped her to improve her singing. He is very creative and comes up with great ideas for her recitals. He believes in his students. He is a fun teacher and that is important. He always encourages her. He also supports her in other musical performances as well. Since taking singing lessons the past 3 years, She has performed in: New Hope Leeward's Christmas service New Hope Leeward's Philippine Mission performed for Compassion International Sponsored Children New Hope Oahu's YPAC "Beauty and the Beast "as Chip New Hope Oahu's YPAC "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" as one of the children New Hope Oahu's DCAT Simply Jesus Conference with the Keiki Choir Pas De Deux Performing Arts School "Annie, Jr." as an orphan Performs at Holomua's Annual talent shows Performed at Dr. Benton Chun's IVF Hawaii 10th Anniversary Celebration New Hope's YPAC "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" as an Oompa Loompa New Hope's YPAC Jr: "Seussical Jr" as Jojo New Hope's Christmas Services: "A Christmas Story: Da Real Story"as Little Kim Many of her peers ask where she takes lesson from. Now 3 of her friends are now taking lesson from Uncle Craig. If you are looking for a voice teacher, call Craig Shimizu Voice Studio. You will have lots of fun singing and performing like my daughter does. read more

I started taking voice lessons just as a hobby in 2005. I've always loved to sing from when I was a very young child. A former student of Shimizu Voice Studio recommended a friend and I to take lessons from Craig. What started as just a hobby became vocal therapy for me when in 2007, I was diagnosed by two ENT with left vocal cord paralysis. What I thought was just a simple cold turned out to become something very serious. I had hoarseness, constant itchy throat, coughing spasms and eventually difficulty in swallowing and enunciation of certain vowals and consonants. My first ENT referred me to a neurologist, who recommended surgery or work with a speech therapist. The speech therapist did not feel therapy was necessary; she in turn referred me to another ENT. I discussed my condition with Craig. Would it be possible for me to completely close my vocal cords with one side paralyzed? Another concern was would I cause stress to my right vocal cord. I believe the exercises and vocal techniques that Craig encouraged me to perform and practicing on my own have done wonders. It has been five years since my diagnosis and I can definitely say my speech is so much better. I can project the sounds which I had difficulty with, especially the E's and I's. I feel so fortunate to have the perfect teacher to help me improve my voice. read more

I have been singing (wailing power rocknroll type singing) for years and performing on tours with back to back performances that have lasted as long as a month. I was NEVER professionally trained. After years of wear and tear on the vocals I noticed it was becoming harder to hit notes with the confidence and strength that I could before. I also noticed my vocals and throat were sore and felt ragged and raw after performing. I was losing my voice more often. Worried I might lose my singing capabilities altogether I signed up for a lesson from Mr. Shimizu. He pointed out all the areas off tension and strain that shouldn't be there when you are singing. He taught me how to breathe properly and how to let my breath carry out my notes without forcing it through tension. I really had no idea how much my bad singing habits were hurting my voice. After practicing my newly learned technique I saw a HUGE improvement in all areas of my singing. Most importantly... it didn't hurt to sing anymore. Thank You Mr. Shimizu! We just finished another round of back to back rehearsals and touring and my vocals and throat remained happy and healthy. I got my confidence back vocally which makes a big difference in the performance as well. I am so appreciative! read more

Mr. Shimizu really is an amazing teacher. He has developed so many of his own great vocal techniques, and he has a unique style of teaching that is so effective in helping me master these techniques. And on top of that, he makes every lesson both enjoyable and productive. One of the things I love the most about his lessons is that he encourages practicing with songs that I like, which helps me to improve my voice and develop the techniques specific to the type of music I want to sing. Every lesson was adjusted specifically based on my improvements and the areas where I was still lacking. From breathing properly to being able to control my voice, I have learned so much about singing from him, and after only a few months, my vocal abilities have greatly improved. I am able to sing more effortlessly while still sounding and feeling good, and it's all thanks to Mr. Shimizu. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to learn from Mr. Shimizu; without his help, I wouldn't be anywhere near the singer I am today. I would recommend Shimizu Voice Studio to anyone and everyone who loves to sing and wants to sound like a pro. He really is one of the best voice teachers out there! read more

If you are a serious performer wanting to learn proper vocal techniques and gain proficient training, Shimizu Voice Studio has the dexterity and vast knowledge to get you to the next level in vocal performance. His teachings trough out my years has inspired me to pursue singing and enhance my ability that God has given me. I have performed in musicals within my church as well as the community through his guidance and practice. His entertaining vocal recitals give students fun experience on stage and the confidence to perform well, connecting to everyone in the audience to leave them with a smile on their face or simply laughing out loud. Throughout my vocal training I had gone to different studios and teachers for continued knowledge. But I always had gone back to Shimizu Voice Studio because of his ability to analyze specific incorrect/correct vocal muscle movements, which is incredible. I always like to have hour sessions from him because it exercises my correct vocal muscles and trains me to be consistent in my techniques. My ultimate dream is to work for Disney. I sincerely believe Craig Shimizu will help me realize that. read more

Craig Shimizu or "Shimizu Sensei," to me: has taught me so many things like how to sing properly and even stage presence. Since taking from Shimizu Voice I have won major contests in Hawaii and flew to Japan to compete, as well as release a CD. Craig has a very down to earth personality that makes it very simple, easy,and comfortable to learn. Even if you're tone deaf or don't have confidence - believe me when I say; 'Craig will be able to make you sing like a professional.' My Awards since Shimizu Voice * 2009 - 1st Place Kzoo Taikai Teen Division * 2009 - Avex Music Record's Finallist * 2010 - 1st place Kzoo Taikai Teen Division * 2011 - Mizumori Hideo (Composer) in Hawaii * 2011 - Challenge Karaoke in Hawaii 3rd place * 2011 - Challenge Karaoke Judge's Award * 2011 - Youngest to win Kzoo Taikai in Hawaii * 2011 - Honor and Congratulate from Hawaii's State Legislature * 2012 - Nippon Amateur Kayosai Finalist * 2012 - Kzoo Radio's Excellence in performing award * 2012 - Fuji Tv's "Kasupe - Iine Japan Nippon ga Daisuki Dai Kokujin Taikai," Second place (Enka) * 2013 - Koukai no Umi c/w Jinsei Saki Bana CD Debut Hawaii only read more

I came across Craig Shimizu in a very unconventional way as my mother was gravely ill and I happened to be taking a lunch break at a nearby restaurant near the hospital. In that moment of propinquity, I met a former teaching friend who gave me the referral which was the start of my journey to study voice. Twelve years have passed and through Shimizu Sensei's teaching, guidance, coaching and encouragement, I have been enabled to surpass expectations for myself. Today, I have grown and developed as an amateur singer to include genres of Japanese Enka, Filipino Kundiman, Hawaiian, Broadway show tunes, jazz, pop and R & B. The bi-annual recitals of the studio have allowed me to set goals to keep transcending as a singer and also to train for stage presence and showmanship. The big payoff for me is that singing has increased my confidence and provides therapy from daily stressors and keeps me focused and happy. Thanks to Shimizu Sensei! read more

Craig Shimizu is an excellent voice coach who has been teaching my niece for about a year. He is simply fantastic with her. Very professional and exceedingly patient. He is very good at helping her understand complex concepts. Though she is only 11, she quickly grasps his lesson content and is able to understand and follow his instruction. She is comfortable with him and enjoys the lessons immensely, and frankly so do I! She calls him, "Dr. Voice". Craig is very thoughtful and generous. He gives her stickers after each lesson which she loves and uses to decorate her lyric book. I would highly recommend "Dr. Voice" to anyone wishing to undertake vocal training. He has state-of-the-art equipment in his studio to assist students to achieve their potential. If you want to learn how to sing, Craig Shimizu is a wonderful voice coach. read more

Craig Shimizu, the owner of Shimizu voice Studio is an amazing teacher! I have taking lessons from him since I was 12 and I am now 18 with no intention of stopping my lessons. All of his techniques, especially his breathing techniques are excellent and they can really transform your voice. Because of Craig's guidance I recently received the lead role in a Christmas play where I was given one of the only solos. I am also the lead singer of a successful pop band in Hawaii. When learning from Craig you can tell he is very dedicated to his work and it will definitely inspire you to be just as dedicated to your singing. If you are interested in developing your voice and training with the best I encourage you to take a lesson. I am living proof that he can help you reach your best potential and even more. read more

Craig Shimizu is an excellent vocal teacher. I've been working as a professional guitarist for several years now. People would always ask me to sing on a gig and I would always tell them I couldn't, as I was very self-conscious about my voice. After some early experiences singing using improper techniques, I simply thought I wasn't born with the gift of singing. However, Craig helped me open up my voice in ways I didn't think possible. He's very knowledgeable about the science of singing and is constantly researching and discovering new singing and pedagogical techniques. I now feel confident in my singing abilities and I advertise myself as a guitarist and singer anytime I am auditioning or applying for a new gig. I highly recommended Shimizu voice to anyone who is serious about learning to sing. read more

I have been taking lessons from Craig Shimizu for two years now and have found it to be a very worthwhile experience. Craig lets you select songs that you are comfortable with and like to sing. He is also very patient and takes the time to work with students on their specific needs. After my wife passed away, I was at a loss at what to do, and singing gave me a creative outlet and helped me get through a difficult time in my life. Craig works with students of all ages, and employs many techniques to help each and every one of them. He has several recitals a year, and I have participated in three of them so far. Singing has brought me so much joy, and anyone who enjoys singing should consider taking lessons from Craig. It is a decision I have never regretted. read more

Craig Shimizu's 35 years of teaching experience combined with his friendly, perceptive, and patient personality will get you to sing and love it! Choose which songs you like and he wil construct your lesson around them. When needed he backs up his explanations with the anatomy and physics of voice production, and as you progress, with expression and stage presentation. His twice yearly recitals, which are fun, will give you a chance to present what you've been practicing as well as learn from observing his many high caliber and award winning students. Parking sometimes is a problem as there are no reserved spaces, but his studio is pleasant and easy to get to. If you want to express yourself in singing, Shimizu Voice is very effective and fun! read more

Unbelievable! Unlike the reviewers below, I did not even know that I could sing (42 years old) until I forced myself to take a lesson from Craig. (I'm the guy who runs away to the bathroom when the office starts singing "Happy Birthday" for my colleagues). Within 20 minutes, he got my singing voice out of me. If you are like me and are totally paralyzed when you have to sing, GO see Craig for at least one lesson. It's a confidence thing and Craig WILL help you. I've studied many things in my life (from MA degree to martial arts) and I can say with absolute certainty that Craig is a true Master Teacher. Very lucky we live Hawaii to be able to learn from Craig in person. Go now before he gets too busy! read more

Taking classes at Shimizu Voice is one of the best choices I've made in my life. After taking classes from Craig, I entered Kzoo, the biggest Japanese singing contest in hawaii and became the Grand Champion in 2012. I then represented Hawaii in one of Japan's major karaoke contest. I've been taking classes from Craig since 1999 and can honestly say that my singing quality and technique has greatly improved. I'm really happy with the results and after each class I feel more and more confident in my singing. I highly recommend Shimizu Voice to anyone who enjoys performing. He not only teaches you to improve your voice but also to own the stage! read more

I have been taking voice lessons for a couple of months now. I originally wanted to be more comfortable at karaoke events. At one point I was going to give up, but Craig knows how to challenge you to not give up! My lessons, though not "cheap" is well worth the price because you learn more than just increasing your range and having confidence to sing and participate while having more fun than you ever thought possible. I may never become a great singer, but my lessons with Craig has helped me in my personal and business life! Don't worry, be happy and enjoy life to the fullest! Priceless!!!!!!' read more

Craig is an excellent coach. He is patient and supportive, even when I am struggling or failing miserably. He is extremely knowledgable and well versed in many techniques so he is always able to find an approach that works for me personally. He communicates well and uses various methods of relaying his message to ensure his point comes across clearly. I have total confidence in him to not only help me perform better but to also help me understand what I'm doing. I highly recommend Craig to anyone interested in learning to sing or even to someone who's experienced but wants to take it to the next level. read more

I have been with Shimizu Voice Studio for over 10 years. He is one of the best out there. There are so many techniques I've learned over the years as simple as breathing to working specifically on your voice. He has a few recitals every year which gives you that experience of performing in front of big crowds. Everyone treats everyone like family especially at recitals. Every week he is prepared to moved on based on the progress you produce. He is a trained voice teacher and has new techniques for you. I highly recommend Shimizu Voice Studio for any singer. read more