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NATS teachers represent the diversity of today’s music landscape, teaching in all vocal styles, with the mission to advance excellence in singing through teaching, performance, scholarship, and research.

Joshua Bailey

Santa Rosa

​Mary E.H. Beard

Santa Rosa

Jody Benecke

Santa Rosa

Bonnie G. Brooks

Sebastopol

Christa Durand

Cotati

M. Jane Erwin

Rohnert Park

Vaid Falconbridge

Shell Knob, Missouri

Beth Freeman

Guerneville

Laurie Hartmann

Sebastopol

Dr. Christina T. Howell

Napa

Linda Evans Manuilow

Petaluma

Marian Marsh

San Rafael

Melinda Moreaux

Penngrove

Mark Kratz

Santa Rosa

Lynne Morrow

Rohnert Park


Francesca Motisi

Santa Rosa

Ellen Patterson

Calistoga

Abigail Strock

Fort Bragg


Vicky Van Dewark

Napa

Marilyn Simpson

Ukiah

Dr. Eve-Anne Wilkes

Angwin and Napa


Susan Witt-Butler

Santa Rosa
Want to become a NATS teacher?  NATS offers a variety of lifelong learning experiences to its members, with workshops, Intern Programs, master classes and conferences, all beginning at the chapter level and progressing to national events. 

Remembering Thelma Dare Ahner: A Lifetime of Music & Mentorship

If you would like to contribute to a scholarship in Thelma's name, click below.
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Thelma Dare Ahner, an instrumental figure within our singing community, a cherished member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), and an enduring source of inspiration for many.

Thelma's life journey began in Los Angeles and took her to stages around the world. As Thelma Dare, she shone in operas, operettas, and musicals, taking on principal roles with a Gilbert and Sullivan touring company and starring in original Broadway cast performances including "Kismet," "Ankles Aweigh," and "The Most Happy Fella."

After her successful performing career, Thelma turned her passion towards nurturing the next generation of performers. She settled in Sonoma County, California in the mid-1960s, immersing herself in the local arts scene while also serving as a dedicated mentor to many budding singers.

In 1995, Thelma co-founded the Redwood Empire Chapter of NATS, serving as its inaugural president. Throughout the years, her unwavering dedication to this organization was evident, with Thelma contributing tirelessly to the board in various capacities until her retirement at age 94.

Thelma's philosophy, "Your voice is the only instrument you can't replace," has deeply resonated with our community, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of being guided by her. To honor her enduring influence and commitment to fostering talent, the Redwood Empire Chapter of NATS established the Thelma Dare Ahner Award in 2019. This memorial scholarship is awarded annually to young singers, offering them financial support and encouragement on their journey, a testament to Thelma's enduring influence on the next generation of performers.

Thelma may no longer be with us, but her legacy continues in the countless voices she has nurtured, and in the lives she has touched with her radiant smile, quick wit, and lyrical laugh. Her teachings and love for the arts will always live on in our hearts and our music.
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As we remember Thelma, we are inspired to carry on her passionate work of nurturing talent and fostering a close-knit community of singers and teachers. We extend our deepest condolences to Thelma's family and to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Thelma Dare Ahner's life will be celebrated later this summer. We mourn the loss of an extraordinary woman while paying tribute to her lifelong dedication to our community. In her memory, we will continue to uphold the art of singing, encourage budding talent, and honor her legacy in our shared passion for music.

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