Hello! I'm Emma Hayden, a dedicated and passionate singer, actress, director, and proud new Houston Voice Studio faculty member! With a background in musical theater, a passion for music education, and a deep love for the arts, I've embarked on a journey to inspire and nurture voices of all ability levels.

As a singer instructor, I strive to implement healthy and technically sound singing practices, unlock the full potential of every student, and nurture my singer’s confidence and personal growth beyond their artistic abilities. I find so much joy in supporting and encouraging students through their musical and non-musical journeys. As a singer with training in both classical and musical theater styles, I believe that a singer can explore any musical genre with the right tools, techniques, and strategies.

As a musical theater singer and actress, I have been fortunate to compete in several state-wide competitions. I’ve received awards such as the Irene Ryan and Musical Theater International Awards (Adele Rice in A Man of No Importance), Broadway World nominations for best supporting actress (Marcy Park in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Dyanne in Million Dollar Quartet), and a Henry award nomination for best supporting actress (Donna “Pickles” in Great American Trailer Park). I served as a resident actress for Mountain Rep Theater Company until the shutdown of theaters due to COVID-19. I performed roles including Sandy Dumbrowski in Grease, Alice Sycamore in You Can’t Take It With You, and Mary Brandon in My Partner. Most recently, I performed in The Pirates of Penzance with the Houston Gilbert and Sullivan Society.

In addition to performing and teaching, I choreograph for the Saengerbund German Choral Society of Houston, serve as dance captain for the Moores School of Music Opera Program, and sing for local cast recordings of new musicals. I also serve as the founder and director of “The Darlings,” a close-harmony doo-wop trio. This array of artistic involvement has allowed me to understand and adapt to different musical styles and foster others in pursuing their diverse musical interests.

My teaching extends across various areas of the arts, and I also enjoy artistic direction and conducting. I've directed children's musical theater camps with Applause Theater, conducted the children's chorus at Lakewood United Methodist Church, and gained experience directing and conducting at Grace Presbyterian. I believe there is great benefit in channeling your creativity into multiple areas, and I look forward to helping my singers find numerous outlets that are creatively fulfilling.

I currently study at the University of Houston’s Moores School of Music, where I have honed my musicianship and developed a strong foundation in pedagogy. Throughout my academic journey, I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible and inspiring teachers in multiple voice areas, including Jack Beetle and our very own Caitlin Duckworth. I currently study with and am mentored by renowned opera singer Melanie Sonnenberg.

When I’m not teaching or performing, I enjoy reading, camping with my husband and pup, and spending time with my family!