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Meet The Crew

Say hello to your coaches

“I’ve known Michelle since I was 12. She is the most knowledgeable singing teacher I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with, not to mention her gorgeous personality and sheer love for teaching. She has such a knack for identifying people’s voice types and helping them keep their uniqueness in singing whilst making sure their singing is technically correct. This is so rare. Michelle is truly an unbelievable vocal coach and has passed on the same values and abilities to the team around her. I couldn’t recommend Aria more highly if I tried.”

Sarah AaronsGrammy Nominated Song Writer

Michelle De Jong

Founder / Vocal Coach

Michelle is the founder of Aria Vocal Academy, and oversees the day to day running of the academy. After graduating from The Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School, Michelle dived straight into vocal coaching, and now with 20 years of teaching experience, Michelle specializes in vocal health and technique, and has a special knack of being able to hear exactly what each student needs. If you are struggling with your technique, and don’t quite know how to feel vocal ease whilst singing, Michelle is the person to go to!

Aaron Hayward

Vocal Coach

With 10 years of live performance experience, Aaron has a profound appreciation for music and all of its intricacies.

What sets him apart? Aaron tailors his lessons to resonate with each student's unique vocal journey, encouraging exploration and vocal authenticity, whilst being committed to their individual growth.

Aaron's holistic approach to vocal development emphasizes both technique and emotional connection. He brings along with him a fresh and adaptive approach to music and is always eager to experiment and innovate.

Grace

Vocal Coach

From the age of 5, Grace has always had a passion for singing and performing. Growing up, Grace developed a wide interest in multiple genres alongside discovering her love for songwriting. She has travelled across the globe to work with many incredible songwriters and producers to develop her own unique sound, recently spending time in Los Angeles, California, and dedicating herself towards releasing her own work.

Throughout her musical journey, Grace has learnt valuable tips and skills, helping her with her confidence and stage presence, developing and expanding her vocal abilities, and understanding the importance of keeping the vocals healthy.

She looks forward to helping her students unlock their potential and be confident in their individuality and creative expression.

Johanna Ohlson

Vocal Coach

Jo is an accomplished singer, being a 3 times Australian A Capella Champion, and achieving an impressive 99% in her VCE Music Performance Exam.

Jo’s passion for music is contagious, and she is eager to share her love for singing with her students. Her dedication to teaching is evident in her approach, as she takes the time to understand each student’s unique needs and learning style. She is committed to creating a positive and supportive learning environment where students can thrive.

Tom Lindsay

Vocal / Instrument / Music Theory

Currently studying a double degree of Music and Arts at Monash University, Tom has been playing music since the age of 5. Whilst maintaining guitar as his primary instrument, Tom is also an accomplished singer and drummer.