Yoo Ri is a performer, voice specialist, educator and clinician. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance with an emphasis in piano from the Conservatory of Music at the University of the Pacific, and holds a Master’s degree from the University of Arizona. She then continued her studies in Italy and completed the Certificate Program for Professional Opera Singers at the renowned New Voice Studio Brilla-Paglin, where she was trained extensively in a specialized technique. Upon completion, she assisted in a series of vocal seminars for jazz singers hosted by the Conservatory of Santa Cecilia in Rome. As a pianist Yoo Ri has worked as a vocal coach, an accompanist for choruses and instrumentalists, and a church musician. She currently teaches piano courses at American River College while maintaining a busy performing schedule.

An essential part of my role as a teacher is to listen objectively to what the student is doing as they sing or play. This task of listening informs me as to what is working and what isn’t. I feel that listening is the key to being an approachable instructor who understands the student’s needs and then, in turn, can offer the best solutions. It’s also important to me to build trust and a personal rapport with my students, establishing a safe environment where they can ask questions and have their concerns addressed. The process of learning should be a partnership where we can share ideas freely, which allows for guidance in the most natural and comfortable way.

My teaching style combines diligent attention to detail, a practical method, and spontanaeity to encourage musicality — a very important combination of skills to have as a musician. My explanations are specific, providing simple steps that the student uses to replicate in their own practice, which allows them to approach learning with a sense of confidence and ultimately independence. The student always leaves the lesson understanding what they should be working on and how to approach technical challenges. Although, how I teach is very specific, there are multiple ways to approach the end goal. My teaching method allows me to be flexible to what comes naturally to the student and their unique personality and temperament, respecting the student as an individual.