I have had the privilege of knowing Christie for the past 3 years, both as a choir member she directed, as well as a vocal student of hers. I can confidently attest to her ability to meet people where they are on their growth journey, empathize, offer them curated tools and strategies for growth and overcoming obstacles. Not only is her pedagogical skill commendable, I witnessed her excel at handling and diffusing tricky group dynamics in choir, respectfully but expertly.
Christie helped me discover the full range of my ability, and develop familiarization with my strengths and my gaps. I found particular benefit in exercises with somatic components, of which we tried a few just to see if they helped. It looked eccentric for vocal lessons, but it worked. Looking back, I was finding some self-imposed obstacles caused by lack of confidence and shame. Through practice, exercise and intentionality, Christie gently helped me through, at my pace.
One of Christie's most striking characteristics is her apparently inexhaustible positive energy. I always walk away from interactions with her feeling more energized.
—Francisco