Sarah McLay

Sarah’s passion for performing arts has existed her whole life, from being in her family's recording studio as a child to obtaining her own positions as a music, dance, and theatre instructor in private, group, and camp settings.

 

As a child, she trained in Vocals (Musical Theatre, Jazz, Classical, Choral), Theory, Piano, Dance, and Dramatic Arts. Sarah has also been employed in the performing arts industry as a music director, choreographer, sound technician, stage manager, and freelance performer. She has received multiple certifications to enhance her teaching, including CPR C/Emergency First Aid, WHMIS, High Five Principles Of Healthy Childhood Development, and Mental Health First Aid.

 

Currently, Sarah is completing her BA in Creative Industries at Ryerson University, majoring in the Acting/Dance and Music Industry modules with a Business Specialization and Minor in Music & Culture. Prior to university, she attended Cawthra Park Secondary School’s Regional Arts Program as a Music (Vocal) Major, and received her Specialized High Skills Major in Arts & Culture. 

 

Highlights of Sarah’s performance career include participating in a Master Class with Greg Phillinganes (Michael Jackson’s Musical Director), performing in Philadelphia, attending multiple Songwriter Workshops with professionals, like Dan Hill, Gowan, Eva Avila, and Dan Kanter, soloing in a Broadway Workshop at 54 Below in New York with the Cast of “Matilda the Musical”, and singing a solo at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. 

 

Sarah’s teaching philosophy focuses on helping students achieve their personal musical goals at a pace that is comfortable for them. She works on technique, repertoire, and other activities, such as warm-up and performance tips to help her students grow as performers and people.