Meet The Teacher
Kate Carr Allen, M.M., D.M.A., M.B.T.S
I have been singing to congregations and crowds since the age of 13. My experience includes professional engagements on large and small stages across the U.S., Ukraine and France, singing classical, Christian contemporary, musical theater or opera, as well as leading church worship.
I earned my bachelors degree from Radford University, my Masters of Music at Austin Peay State University, and my Doctorate of Music Arts in vocal performance from the University of Oklahoma. In 2023, I finished a Masters of Biblical and Theological Studies degree at Dallas Theological Seminary, Washington DC campus in order to combine my love of music with my love of God's Word.
Working with school-aged children led me to obtain certification in Orff Schulwerk at George Mason University. In addition to leading Orff ensembles in Fairfax and Fauquier counties, my elementary and high school voice students have placed in district, regional and state level competitions nationwide. My students go on to become music teachers, homeschool moms, worship leaders, recording artists, doctors, pharmacists, marketing execs, bloggers, tv producers, and White House staffers. They learn poise, self-control, proper diction, public presentation skills, and how to process constructive criticism and encouragement from their peers.
When not teaching or writing, you can find me with my husband, Dabney, on our grain farm where I love gardening, cooking, and hanging out with our cats, Pepperoni, Cleopatra, Leo, and SamSam. I recently added pickleball to my new-skill-to-learn list but still cannot put a spin on my serve!
Voice Instructor & Music Teacher in Orange, VA
It’s all in the approach…
I cherish working with students who love music but hesitate to reveal their creative side for fear of failure or rejection.
This is why I chose the word "haven" in the name of my studio. In a world that often rushes children along, New Song Music Haven is a faith-based environment that fully encourages exploration of the voice, rhythmic skills, creativity, and the musical energy already within you.
Classes and lessons are tailored to fit your needs and goals. I spend time researching the best song or ensemble piece, and the most appropriate singing range, so that your skills can grow step by step. Children are allowed to play joyfully and experiment with sound and harmony before they are asked to read. We learn by hearing, speaking, and singing first, then reading and composing.
If you are looking for a music teacher in Virginia who sets high yet attainable goals, gives room and grace to make mistakes, and cares deeply about both musical and personal growth, I would be honored to work with you.
Click to listen
FCPS 6th Grade All County Chorus
Orff Orchestra led by Kate
Dr. Allen was very approachable and made me comfortable to make mistakes and learn from them.
Her critiques always began with what I did right, were constructive, and never felt demanding. It was easy and fun to learn in her studio.”
Anne E.
UVA graduate
