Teacher nurtures the next generation of vocalists
Toni brings a wealth of experience and her unique skillset to help aspiring vocalists find their own voice.
Toni Zaffa has performed in New York and throughout the US and Canada. The Coast singer was a Soul Sister in the Australian Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar. She has trained under some of the world’s most venerable authorities including Celine Dion’s vocal coach, Professor William Riley, and Renee Geyer’s coach, Professor William Philipsborn.
Toni loves to use her unique skillset to help aspiring vocalists find their own voice.
“I have been singing all of my life,” Toni said. “My first performance was when I was 9 years old. I sang Honky Tonk Woman, and it was a watershed moment in my young life that ignited my passion for singing.”
Growing up in a musical family, a career in music seemed inevitable. She developed a keen interest in musical theatre and performed lead roles in school productions.
“I really stepped into my career after moving to Sydney,” she said, “I had to discover where I fit in as a vocalist. I sang a wide range of genres: pop, blues, jazz and soul.
“I love musical theatre and rock opera, and I searched for roles that would complement my soulful R&B voice. My big break came when I was cast in the role of the Soul Sister in the much-loved Australian National Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar.
Producer Harry M. Miller wrote: “Toni Zaffa has an extraordinary voice and is a credit to the industry.”
Toni has worked with a “who’s who” of the Australian recording industry. She has recorded with Kirk Pengilly (INXS) and Richard Clapton and has performed alongside Jon Stevens (Noiseworks), Ian Moss (Cold Chisel), Renee Geyer, Deni Hines and Louis Shelton.
Toni moved to New York City and performed at Don’t Tell Mamma, Chicago Blues, Red Eye Grill, Tribeca Blues, The Duplex, and The Metropolitan Cafe with the David Letterman Band, Randy Brecker and The Brecker Brothers.
She toured and performed in Los Angeles, New Orleans (Bourbon Street), Denver, and Canada and thrilled audiences from the Mississippi Delta to New York’s Off-Broadway stages.
“Through these great teachers and incredible experiences, I matured as a vocalist and performer, and I knew I would find great satisfaction in nurturing the next generation”.
Toni returned home to the Coast and was crowned “The Queen of the Noosa Jazz Festival” before enrolling and graduating from the Conservatorium of Music at Griffith University.
“My unique approach incorporates my formal education at Griffith University, extensive training from the world’s most renowned vocal coaches, and my personal knowledge of the music industry. I teach proven performance techniques, essential methods to protect vocal health, and the latest auditioning skills honed from my own experience. It is incredibly exciting to see my students grow into their musical careers and watch them perform, record, and become original singer-songwriters.”
Some of Toni’s students include Tara-Ashleigh, Darcy Kate, Krave, Doolie, Sally Skelton (The Voice), Frank and Louis, Pity Vincent, Nuffinbuttaband, Treehouse the Band (who recently opened for Wolfmother in Sydney) and Will Outridge, who supported The Dreggs.
Toni offers wisdom and guidance to students entering professional careers. In her role as an A&R Consultant for a Sydney-based music and artist management company, she actively searches for and recruits the next great talent.
Her unique methodology, holistic vocal philosophy, and auditioning skills bring invaluable insight and have produced results for her students in all contemporary music genres.
“For many vocalists, music is not just a career; it’s a calling,” Toni said, “and there is nothing quite like standing out on a stage and sharing your gift with the world. It takes great commitment, courage and tenacity. My students are confident that I not only have the skills and experience to help them pick up the microphone, but I will stand behind them all the way.”
Toni teaches at various locations on the Sunshine Coast or by Zoom. For further information 0409 584 508 or toni@tonizaffa.com. Or search “Toni Zaffa Singer/Vocal Coach” on Facebook.