How Julia’s singing and whole life shifted from her FreeBody FreeVoice program (a testimonial for Michael’s radical learning options)
Julia Xu: I've been a student of Michael's for years, and have loved the way I've grown from a complete novice with no formal vocal training to someone with more range and control of my instrument than I could have ever imagined.
Taking the next step and signing up for Michael’s radical learning program opened up new levels of growth in my art and broader life, far beyond what I expected.
I've always loved singing and longed to do "more" with it (record, perform, etc), but mental blocks were holding me back. The usual - perfectionism, doubt over whether I was "worthy" to put my music out in the world, etc. It's a cycle I hadn't been able to break out of, and a huge source of frustration to feel I had more potential that I couldn't capture and bring out. When I learned about Virtuoso Academy, I was once again feeling frustrated about my lack of progress with music, and feeling a bit "stuck" in other areas of life as well. I jumped at the chance to work with Michael in a deeper capacity beyond the technicals we cover in our usual lessons, and conquer my mental roadblocks.
After only two sessions, I was shocked to experience drastic improvement.
By the end of session 2, I had my first experience of performing a song without the usual fear/doubt thoughts creeping in. Not only was it the first time I'd ever performed while completely having fun and honestly enjoying myself, it was also my best sounding vocal performance to date and the first time the way I sounded in performance matched the potential I know I have!
From these sessions, I've gained more confidence in my voice and ability than I've had, and changed my attitude and experience of performing from one of nerves, fear, pressure and judgment to one of joy and fun. It's allowed me to start working on my first recording project, something that while still scary at times, also feels exciting. Before Virtuoso Academy, I likely would have continued putting this off out of fear and doubt.
As an added bonus, the results of my work with Michael started creeping into other areas of my life as well! I was experiencing burnout at work and questions around direction which have since resolved as a result of our sessions. In addition to increased energy and excitement about my singing projects, I also received an energy boost around personal and professional goals and have more hustle and confidence than ever. As someone who's prone to overthinking, I also rarely experienced a quiet mind before Virtuoso Academy.
After working with Michael, I've felt more peace and calm in my mind (without sacrificing the hustle!).
To provide an example, I practice kung fu and there's an exercise that involves balancing on one leg while doing other movements with your eyes closed - something that requires a high amount of zen/calm to achieve. I'd historically not been able to do this without having to break the pose or open my eyes and catch my balance at some point. After my 2nd or 3rd Virtuoso Academy session, I attended a kung fu class later in the day and noticed my mind was quieter and more still than usual, and to my surprise I nailed the balance exercise for the first time!
Michael is an amazing teacher who truly cares about his students' progress and well-being in general. Sessions with him are filled with genuine support, excitement for my journey/progress, and lack of judgment, where it feels safe to truly explore and share insecurities. Through his guidance, wisdom, and the material he's shared with me during this program, we've unlocked mental blocks that were holding me back in singing but also in life in general.
I've found myself going through life with a bigger sense of peace, confidence, freedom from stress even in trying times, and happiness from within.
Obstacles that life throws my way seem much less insurmountable and daunting, I move through even the busiest days without triggering high stress, and have an increased feeling of energy, drive and contentment throughout my days.
Michael, thank you for helping me unblock my voice and so much more.
I encourage anyone looking to unblock themselves from roadblocks in singing (or life!) to sign up for this program and prepare for drastic changes and improvement. The value it's brought to me and the long lasting changes in my life have made it worth it many times over.
- Julia Xu, Pop Singer