Welcome to new NATS–NYC Board member Dr. Justin John Moniz

We welcome Dr. Justin John Moniz, who joined the NATS–NYC Board in 2021.

Tell us about your work as a singer and teacher. How did you get started and how did you end up where you are today?

I currently serve as Associate Director of Vocal Pedagogy and Music, and Assistant Professor of Vocal Performance at New York University’s (NYU) Steinhardt School, where I lead the graduate vocal pedagogy program, teach courses in pedagogical theory and practice, applied voice, and direct the NYU Pop/Rock Ensemble. As a singer, I have balanced a career in both opera and musical theatre, having recently sung roles with Opera Grand Rapids, Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre, Sarasota Opera, Florida Grand Opera, and DreamCatcher Theatre/Adrienne Arsht Center. This past March, I released my solo debut album, Along the Way (available on all streaming platforms).

What is your history with NATS?

I was first introduced to NATS as a student while competing in the CNYFL Student Auditions in 2007. I later became involved as a teacher in 2012, while pursuing my master's degree. This past winter, I joined the NATS-NYC Board of Directors and have more recently begun work as the chapter's Student Auditions Chair. I've also had the great pleasure of serving as a mentor teacher for both the NATS National Mentoring Collaborative as well as the upcoming NATS Mentored Teaching Experience (to be held during the 2021 Virtual Summer Workshop).

What did you learn from teaching and singing during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Teaching during the pandemic was quite a revolutionary experience. As a pedagogue, it allowed me to hone in on specific elements of my process. It challenged me to listen more critically and explore various tactics to achieve what would have otherwise been accomplished in person. Overall, I'm happy to say it made me a better teacher.