Conversations with Dr. Lori Hicks

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Lori Hicks.

Hi Dr. Lori, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
After 15 years as a tenured music professor and administrator serving primarily in HBCUs, I walked away to pursue a higher calling of training and coaching singers of all styles and skill levels. I desired to fill the void of vocal training that our higher Ed institutions choose to ignore in our communities. As a classically trained singer, voice professor, opera director, arts administrator, and composer, I yearned for a more meaningful connection in my artistry and instruction, so I started LCH Studios to be able to make music on a more impactful and long-lasting level. In addition, being the single mother of a young son with autism, I saw how art and music bridged the gap of understanding and communication for my child. Music saved my life and has afforded me opportunities I never dreamed of, performing on opera stages in Europe, Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln and Kennedy centers, and more, and I and determined to provide those same kinds of training and opportunities for our children, our communities, our churches, our schools, and our future. I was raised in the black church, grew up in Detroit Motor City, fashioned at an HBCU, and trained at one of the top institutions in the country. Through my company LCH Studios, I seek to combine all those elements to innovate vocal training and create access for all.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, not a smooth road at all, and I am still facing challenges as I transition out of higher Ed into full-time entrepreneurship. I developed a heart condition at my last institution due to high-stress levels and, frankly, not fulfilling my purpose. I struggled with not having the resources to provide high-level performance opportunities for my HBCU students. I was spread thin as a single mother trying to meet the demands of a special needs child and running a music department devoid of adequate resources.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in voices, training, coaching, developing, producing, and composing for voices. I’m most proud of the singers I’ve inspired to pursue professional careers and the voices I’ve been able to rehabilitate from emotional and health challenges. I’m especially proud of developing a training method that transcends genre and can be applied to any vocal style at any age.

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Singing is something we all can enjoy. Singing is healing; teaching voices to sing with healthy technique, skill, and confidence is my life’s joy and purpose.

Pricing:

• “Dr. Lori FIX MY VOICE” coaching class -$10
• Private 1:1 Coaching – $100/hr
• “Vocal Wisdom for Worship Singers” 6 week training course-$497
• Online Vocal Bootcamp $59
• Strategy Sessions $15

Contact Info:

• Website: www.LCHSTUDIOS.com
• Instagram: @dr.lorihicks
• Facebook: @dr.lorihicks
• Twitter: Drlorihicks
• Youtube: LCH Studios