Ms. Forte (Rachelle) was performing solo on stage before she turned 8 years old. She had been singing in ensembles and choirs at an even younger age but once she had the stage all to herself, she was hooked and never looked back.
Rachelle has an extensive musical education, holding an Associate of Arts degree in Music and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Church Music with an emphasis on Vocal Performance and Pedagogy. A doctor’s order to be on voice rest prevented the final performance that would have clinched a second Bachelor’s in Vocal Performance. That experience led her to become an expert in vocal health. Since college she has continued her training with both classical and contemporary teachers including Heather Lyle (Vocal Yoga-Los Angeles), Matt Edwards (Shenandoah University Pop/Rock), Brett Manning Studios (Pop/Rock), and Rachel Stoddard (NATS-Classical).
Rachelle’s well-rounded background in performance and direction, includes credits such as Mayzie in Seussical, Dr. Harrison in Trapped the Musical, and Caroling with Goode Time Productions.
Second only to the Christmas Show at Radio City Music Hall in NYC, the Celebration of Christmas hosts audiences of 10,000-15,000 throughout the Christmas season in Phoenix, AZ. Rachelle has been integral to this impressive spectacle: singing, dancing, and directing. The show runs 75-90 minutes and contains large numbers of nearly every genre, live animals, and even aerial artists. Rachelle has performed, coordinated scenes, been the vocal coordinator for numbers, and an orchestra assistant in this annual production. On multiple occasions she has filled in for someone at the last minute with very little preparation but the audience has been none the wiser.
Rachelle has served as Vocal Coordinator at Dream City Church (PFA-2007-2011) and worked with worship team vocalists, ensembles, choir, and numerous productions. There is no stage too small or too large as she has been Musical director for a number of high school and community productions as well including: Once Upon a Mattress, Curtains, Seussical, and Star of Wonder. Rachelle’s love for the stage in all facets knows no bounds and neither does her drive to share her expertise.
All of this extensive training and experience is well integrated into Ms Forte Studio. Helping people find their forte in music and in life; guiding people to develop their BEST voice, grow their confidence, and reach their goals and even have bigger dreams is Rachelle’s passion.
Rachelle is not only a full time voice and piano teacher but also continues to direct, consult and perform.
