JACKIE WASHAM CEKOVSKY
performer / teacher
ABOUT
Hi, I'm Jackie!I'm an actor, singer and private voice teacher based in Bucks County, PA. Originally from Souderton, I moved to NYC after high school to study Musical Theater at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts in the CAP21 program. After graduating, I lived in Brooklyn for another 12 years, performing professionally in shows, concerts, workshops, readings and recordings in NYC and beyond.I currently live in Perkasie, with my husband and three daughters and have been teaching privately since 2017 specializing in musical theater, belting and contemporary pop/rock styles.
My students have performed locally at the Souderton Tree Lighting, Pennridge Gallery of the Arts and several concerts at Generations of Indian Valley. Several of my students have competed at PMEA Districts, Regionals, All-States and National choir festivals and are active participants in their school music groups. They have been featured in their school musicals as well as in youth productions at Montgomery Theater, Young Performers Collaborative, Music Mountain Theater, Town and Country Players and many more.
In 2024 I graduated from Rider University/Westminster Choir College with a Masters in Vocal Pedagogy (Musical Theater). In addition to teaching I continue to perform in the Philadelphia area and in New York City. Thanks for stopping by!
TESTIMONIALS
Before I started working with Jackie I was so insecure to sing loud and strong, but soon enough I was singing with confidence. Jackie taught me songs in various genres that helped me learn to sing new and unique styles. She was always so patient with me and made me feel comfortable. I was excited to practice and learn every time. I can honestly say working with Jackie was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I wouldn't be where I am now without her.
Michaela
It seemed almost impossible to find a vocal coach that celebrated my dreams while also pushing me to be the best in my art: until I met Jackie! Studying with her for over a year now, I’m glad to say I have truly grown as an artist. She ranges in professionalism in every vocal genre that is existent and is one of the best I’ve met in the field. Jackie’s incorporation of range building warm-ups, her outstanding sight reading, and teaching skills are truly why I enjoy and benefit so much from my vocal lessons. She also genuinely cares about every one of her students as real individuals when training them to be the best in their field. Every week I fill my “tool box” with everything from Stephen Sondheim to classical operettas and critiques that I could not find elsewhere. After joining Jackie, she has helped me prepare for auditions that have led me to Broadway Conservatories in New York City, professional shows all over the state, and select vocal groups at my high school. If you need any technique training vocally, Jackie is your girl!
Anna
My daughter loves Miss Jackie! She is patient, kind & understanding. She works the students at their level and progresses them when they are ready. She always wants to help and will encourage students to keep trying. Jackie is a very talented musician and has so much to offer her students. She is a wonderful teacher!
Catherine
Voice lessons with Jackie were amazing. From the personal relationship to improvement in vocal abilities and techniques, the overall experience was wonderful! We worked on a variety of music and it helped to make me a better overall singer and soloist! 10/10 would recommend!
Amanda
Before I took voice lessons from Jackie, I didn't even know all the different techniques to use for each style of music. However, Jackie opened all kinds of opportunities to sing what fit MY voice best. She knew how to improve my technique and voice without the compromise of singing songs I wasn't interested in. Jackie helped me get a stronger and confident voice. Also, Jackie is the nicest person to work with. She's willing to listen to your concerns about your voice or performance. From a person that consistently switched instruments, voice lessons from her never bore me. I always look forward to meeting up with Jackie every week. If you need help getting a stronger and more emotional performance, Jackie is the voice teacher to go to!
Anna
All Videos
Hit Me With A Hot Note
"Game On" - Jackie Washam Cekovsky
Computer Love Song
The Water is Wide, arr Charles Yeago
THEATRICAL RESUME
Voice Lesson FAQs
What does a voice lesson include?
Your investment in voice lessons is much more than just the scheduled lesson time! Below is a short list of what goes into each time slot:
-a pre-arranged, dedicated lesson time each week
-many years of training and experience as both a performer and teacher
-administrative duties such as scheduling, sending lesson reminders, providing studio updates, and creating invoices and reports
-access to Jackie's calendar via My Music Staff, which allows students to view and edit the lesson schedule as well as see notes, repertoire and practice tips
-access to Jackie’s extensive library of sheet music
-the use of technology in Jackie’s home studio
-transposition of songs to the appropriate key for your singer
-personalized tracks of melodies and/or accompaniments recorded by Jackie as needed
-time spent researching songs, shows and singers
-performance opportunities including local events and an annual Showcase
What are the fees?
Lesson fees are available upon request and are subject to change. Payment is accepted by cash, check, venmo or paypal.
What is Jackie’s background and training?
Jackie is a graduate of New York University/Tisch School of the Arts (Bachelor of Fine Arts, Musical Theater) and is currently attending Rider University Westminster Choir College in pursuit of a Masters of Voice Pedagogy (graduation Spring 2024). Jackie spent 12 years working as a musical theater performer in New York City and continues to work professionally in the Philadelphia area. Jackie has also worked extensively with composers on new musicals and has participated in many readings, workshops, and recordings. While living in NYC Jackie taught with the Little Maestros music program for young children and began teaching privately in 2017.
Jackie trained classically in piano from a young age with Cindy Borowski-Burns of Souderton and competed in piano competitions throughout high school. Jackie has also trained extensively with voice teacher Dr. Neal Tracy and studied vocal pedagogy with Broadway’s Amanda Flynn.
What is the difference between a voice teacher and a vocal coach?
A voice teacher is trained in vocal technique, while a vocal coach is experienced with style and performance. Jackie’s background and training as both a performer and teacher has provided her with wide-ranging skill set, allowing her to work with singers on healthy vocal techniques, breath support and control, music theory/sight-singing, appropriate stylistic elements, acting, and performance.
What type of music does Jackie teach?
Jackie is happy to work with students on any style of music but specializes in musical theater and contemporary singing.
Is there a waitlist?
There are currently several students on the wait-list, however while singers are waiting for a weekly spot to open up they are able to schedule "floating" lessons via My Music Staff. After an initial meeting with Jackie students and parents can set up an account to view Jackie's availability and register for any open spots. As current students graduate the wait-list does move, with spots often opening up in the spring/summer.
What is the cancellation/make-up policy?
Lessons may be cancelled or rescheduled via My Music Staff with a minimum of 24 hours notice. Missed lessons without prior communication may be subject to payment and counted as a “no-show”.
What are some of Jackie’s students’ accomplishments?
-acceptance into theater programs at DeSales University, University of the Arts, and Point Park University
-participation in PA District, Regional, and All-State choir competitions
-participation in the NAfME National Choir
-selection for audition-based groups in school
-lead roles in camp, school, and local productions
-released professionally recorded albums
