With a passion for song and theater, Jennifer Smolos inspires her students to realize their full potential and rise to greatness. Smolos teaches both Vocal Production and Musical Theatre Performance, balancing her focused approach with empathy and heart.

Smolos began her teaching journey over a decade ago, after earning her Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Performance at NYU-Steinhardt. She also holds a Master's Degree in Vocal Performance & Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (all at NYU-Steinhardt). Smolos has expanded her craft by studying voice with Dianna Heldman, Michael Ricciardone and Edith Rice and received additional acting training at The Actors Studio. It’s this dedication to evolving her own education, broadening her skill set as a teacher and her deep understanding of the arts that won her the honor of being named one of Backstage Magazine’s Best Vocal Coaches in NYC.

“What I love about teaching is that I have to use all parts of myself: the physical, vocal, empathetic, creative and intuitive,” Smolos says, and it’s that love that continues to influence her lessons going forward. Smolos thrives on the challenge of finding the hurdles within each student and helping them to overcome their perceived limits.

“Some of the most truthful responses happen in my classroom because there is no hiding,” Smolos notes. “It’s you and whatever you bring to the work — that’s where the real emotional connection starts to happen.”

Smolos’ energetic spirit, visionary drive and uncanny artistic instincts make her one of the most valued and respected teachers on the New York campus. Says Smolos, “I’m always looking to meet my next goal. I love working with actors because there is a clear objective and always a goal.”