Find your True Voice with jess mcavoy

Unlock the full range of your authentic voice with Jess McAvoy—an experienced voice coach, artist, and advocate for vocal freedom. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or someone who’s just beginning to explore your voice, this space is designed for you.

I’m Jess McAvoy, a voice coach with over 20 years of experience helping people connect with their voices in meaningful, transformative ways. My approach goes beyond one-size-fits-all techniques; it’s about honoring each person's unique journey. With my three decades background in performance and as one of New York City’s most highly rated voice coaches, I’m here to help you unlock the power and depth of your voice, whether you’re looking for versatility, confidence, creativity, or a deeper connection to who you truly are.

My teaching blends traditional vocal techniques with somatic, intuitive, and even esoteric methods, allowing us to approach your voice in ways that feel natural and resonate with your personal learning style. I draw on my own decades of vocal exploration and craft each session within a trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ BIPOC (and all other identities) affirming space. My goal in every session is to help you shed layers of inhibition and discover a voice that feels fearless, authentic, and wholly yours.

I work with clients both virtually and in-person in Chelsea, Manhattan, so no matter where you are, we can connect. If you enjoy working within a community, my group workshop, The Sing Easy, provides a safe, inclusive environment to explore and expand your voice alongside others. As a neurodivergent artist, I understand the unique challenges and gifts that shape each voice journey, and I’m here to meet you wherever you are, whether that’s finding your voice for the first time or breaking through to the next level of your practice.

Voice work is more than a skill; it’s a life-changing practice that ripples through every part of who you are. It’s about finding your voice and allowing it to become a source of freedom, expression, and strength. So if you’re ready to invest in this journey and uncover the full, true potential of your voice, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

I am a medium priced voice coach by New York’s standards
Please contact me for rates and availability.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

  • "Jess has been more than extraordinary in my vocal endeavors. I've worked with many vocal coaches in the past, and none of them can even compare to working with Jess. I came to Jess looking for a vocal coach who would really see ME, not just the voice. It's a personal exploration of voice and self every session. Jess opened me up into places with my vocals I've only ever dreamed of, but were too scared/unsure of to try. Incredibly, they've gone above and beyond by coordinating opportunities for me (as well as other clients) to perform at professional venues like The Bitter End, as well as supporting my songwriting and producing. I've recommended Jess to several of my own clients looking to work on their voice. 10/10 heavily recommend working with Jess"

    -Megan M, New York

  • "Working with Jess is one of the best decisions I've ever made for my personal and artistic growth. They deliver as a voice teacher but go well beyond that in ways I did not expect. They are a holistic guide to your development. They know what you need to hear not just to be a better singer, but to take risks, trust your own abilities, and explore your own creativity. Jess has made me a better musician because they recognize and push you past barriers whether they be technical, emotional, or mental. Bonus points for being a kind and genuine soul."

    -Nathan D, New York

  • "My daughter worked with Jess to get prepared for her high school auditions and we couldn't have done it without her! She found songs to show her abilities in their best light. She is such a pleasure and made the process fun and low pressure. Her techniques for teaching breath, volume, and range are fresh and simple. She was my partner in this process and I cannot thank her enough for all she did to help us through the madhouse that is high school admissions in NYC. Thanks, Jess!"

    -Lynn L, New York

  • I had never taken singing lessons before contacting Jess. I didn't know what to expect when going into vocal training- but Jess has been more than I could have hoped for. She is not only an extremely talented singer but is also a great human, that shares common ground in believing that everyone has a voice, it's just knowing how to share it. I am still taking classes with her and cannot wait to see what comes next! I have never felt this trustful of my voice until I took lessons with Jess. Thank you thank you thank you!

    Allegra V, New York

  • "Working with Jess is one of the best investments I've ever made in myself. Our sessions have helped me rebuild my understanding of breath, body, and resonance from first principles, and redefined the realm of possibility for using myself as an instrument. The chance to study under an artist at this level is a rare opportunity. If you want to explore the place where music, meditation, and knowledge of yourself intersect, get in touch immediately."

    -Ana N, New York

  • "Jess had the ability to pinpoint exactly what I needed in order to get to where I wanted to go, her constant patience in my beginning stages, support, infectious enthusiasm and obvious natural ability to teach, made my sessions with her an absolute delight. I would highly recommend her to beginners through to seasoned musicians... she has something for Everyone.

    -Renee B, Melbourne

  • The spectacular thing about Jess is that everything she gives you is real. There are no unchecked compliments or glossy praise. She recognises your flickering inner artist, perhaps even more clearly than you can yourself, and works to release it, beautifully imperfect and unapologising. Jess McAvoy gave me the courage to be myself.

    -Anna B, Melbourne

  • "After 10 years of creative musical block, 10 hours with Jess opened me up and hooked me into the flow and the songs haven't stopped coming ever since. She has a subtle and nurturing teaching style that makes you feel safe to express anything yet pushes you where it counts. Canada, send her back, we miss her."

    -Steve D. Melbourne

  • "When I contacted Jess about her services I thought I'd be learning the basic mechanics of songwriting. Much to my surprise and delight it was about so much more than finessing lyrics and working out good song structure. It became about overcoming a lifelong fear of stage fright, about finding my true voice and unleashing it. Her no-nonsense, honest approach is equally inspiring and constructive. What I learned from her is invaluable to me as an artist and a person and I utilize many of her lessons every day. I cannot more highly recommend Jess's service to anyone ready to find their true voice!

    -Maria R. Toronto

  • "After one session with Jess McAvoy, I walked away fundamentally changed. As a creativity coach. Jess combines her vast experience in both art and life with her ability to hear what is inside you - the thing that is screaming out to be allowed into the world but for one reason or another is stuck. With both her heart and her head fully engaged, she applies her hard-earned wisdom, perceptiveness and creative genius to bring down the walls that are stifling your gift, empowering you to share it with courage and grace."

    -Peter F. Melbourne

  • "Before meeting Jess I had no idea that song writing could even be taught. She showed me that we all have these songs coiled inside our hearts, uniquely ours and ready and eager to emerge like butterflies when the environment is conducive. She creates that environment. Eternal thanks."

    -Adam S. Melbourne

  • "When I first started lessons with Jess, I lacked confidence in my ability and didn't have any real direction about what I wanted to do other than just learn guitar. However, with lots of encouragement and guidance, I have now got focused goals around my music including stage performance and song-writing. She told me to write, write, write and that's what I did... Now I even have a song about it!"

    -Lauren T. Melbourne

  • "Jess McAvoy doesn't teach you how to just sing better; they teach you how to be better. I cannot stress that enough: with their lessons, you not only gain invaluable technique, knowledge and vocal exercises, but you get Jess' unwavering compassion for music, people and life, itself. They have this ability to look deep inside someone, find what makes you happy or scared or dream, and unlocks it. Jess is so open and inviting--allowing you as the student to get comfortable in the uncomfortable, and free yourself from your own expectations. I've never been supremely confident in my voice, masking my insecurities with volume. Jess immediately helped me own this, focusing on exercises to lower my volume, feel vulnerable and ultimately become way more confident with my voice. Jess will force you into a creative unknown without ever letting you feel alone. If you're thinking about vocal lessons, take this leap. And do it with Jess McAvoy. They'll teach you to enjoy the free fall as much as the landing."

    -Cory F. New York

  • Over two decades as a voice educator

  • Trauma informed

  • LGBTQIA+

  • Natural and passionate teacher

  • In person location in Manhattan

  • Virtual sessions available

  • Sliding scale available

  • Song writing and performance coaching

MANHATTAN LOCATION