Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about children’s and teen singing lessons, class placement, trial lessons, tuition, performances, RCM Voice exam preparation, and singing competition coaching at MK Singing School in Richmond Hill, Ontario.

About MK Singing School

1. What is MK Singing School?

MK Singing School, also known as MKSS, is a professional vocal training school for children and teenagers.

Founded in 2009 by mezzo-soprano and voice educator Ke Mao, MKSS provides structured training in vocal technique, classical singing, musical theatre, pop singing, musicianship, and stage performance.

Students may study recreationally or receive advanced preparation for RCM Voice examinations, auditions, music festivals, and singing competitions.

2. Where is MK Singing School located?

MK Singing School is located at:

155 East Beaver Creek Road, Unit 31 Richmond Hill, Ontario

The school is conveniently located near Leslie Street and Highway 7, with easy access to Highway 404 and Highway 407. The surrounding area has many supermarkets, restaurants, and shopping centres. MKSS offers free parking.

MKSS serves families from Richmond Hill, Markham, Thornhill, Vaughan, North York, Toronto, and other communities throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

3. What ages does MKSS teach?

MKSS offers singing programs for students of all ages.

Our programs are generally divided into two areas: children and youth programs and adult programs. Students are placed according to their age, vocal development, musical experience, learning readiness, and individual goals.

4.Can beginners join MKSS?

Yes.

No previous vocal training is required for beginner-level classes.

Our beginner programs introduce students to healthy singing habits, breathing, posture, pitch, rhythm, diction, musical expression, and stage confidence in an age-appropriate learning environment.

Students with previous vocal or musical training will be assessed and placed in the most suitable program.

Programs and Teaching

5. What types of singing lessons does MKSS offer?

MKSS offers:

Children, teen, and adult group singing classes
Private voice lessons
Classical voice training
Musical theatre singing
Pop and commercial music training
RCM Voice examination preparation
Singing competition and music festival coaching
Audition preparation
Vocal technique and musicianship training
Stage performance and presentation training

Students may study repertoire in a variety of languages, including English, Mandarin, Cantonese, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Czech, and Latin and more.

Program availability may vary by term, teacher schedule, and student level.

6. What is the student-to-teacher ratio in MKSS group classes?

Most group classes have approximately 4 to 8 students and 2 teachers, including one lead teacher and one assistant teacher. This structure allows students to receive individual guidance and correction while benefiting from group learning and performance experience.

7. How often are classes held, and how long is each class?

Regular group classes are held once a week, with each class lasting 60 minutes.

The frequency and duration of private lessons vary depending on the student’s age, level, goals, and program.

8. What languages are used in class?

Classes are taught primarily in English.

Teachers may provide additional explanations in Mandarin or Cantonese when appropriate.

Most repertoire is in English. Depending on the student’s age and level, students may also study songs in Mandarin, Cantonese, French, Italian, Spanish, or other languages.

Class Placement and Levels

9. How does MKSS determine the most suitable class for each student?

Before registration, MKSS communicates in detail with parents to learn about the student’s age, gender, previous training, musical experience, and learning goals.

Based on this information, our teaching team recommends the most suitable class and program for the student.

Parents do not need to determine or select a class level on their own.

10. What are the MKSS program levels?

MKSS offers three main stages of group study:

Little Star — Beginner and Foundation Level

This level is designed for students who are developing fundamental vocal, musical, and performance skills.

Rising Star — Intermediate and Pre-Competition Level

This level is designed for students with stronger technical foundations, greater repertoire experience, and readiness for more detailed performance work.

Golden Star — Advanced and Competition Level

This level is designed for experienced students working on advanced vocal technique, interpretation, examinations, auditions, and higher-level competition repertoire.

Some programs may include “Plus” designations to reflect additional stages of development within a level.

For more program information, please click:
https://www.mksingingschool.com/_files/ugd/1e4e26_42f40e2cc0b84b0ba0e399f1614c0e96.pdf

11. Can students choose their own level?

No. Level placement is determined by the MKSS teaching team under the direction of Ms. Mao.

Placement is based on the student’s vocal technique, musicianship, repertoire experience, learning attitude, practice habits, maturity, and stage experience.

This ensures that every student receives instruction appropriate to their current stage of development.

12. Do students automatically move to a higher level every term?

No. MKSS levels are based on skill development rather than age, school grade, or the number of terms completed.

Students advance when they demonstrate the technical, musical, and artistic skills required for the next level.

Some students may remain with the same classmates while the entire class gradually progresses to a more advanced program.

Regular attendance, consistent home practice, and completion of assignments are important parts of this process.

13.Is competition required?

No. MKSS supports two general learning pathways:

Recreational Training

This pathway is suitable for students who want to enjoy singing, build confidence, develop musical skills, and participate in performances.

Competitive Training

This pathway is designed for students preparing for auditions, RCM Voice examinations, music festivals, or singing competitions.

Teachers set appropriate goals according to each student’s interests, readiness, and level of commitment.

Participation in competitions is not required for every student.

Trial Lessons and Registration

14.Can my child take a trial lesson before registering?

Yes. Paid trial lessons are available for prospective students when space is available.

A trial lesson allows the teacher to observe the student’s musical readiness, vocal development, participation, and compatibility with the class.

It also allows the student and parent to learn more about the MKSS teaching environment.

15. How do I arrange a trial lesson?

Please provide the following information:

The student’s full name
Date of birth
Previous singing or musical experience
Preferred program, if known
General availability
Any specific learning goals

MKSS will recommend an appropriate class and trial time.

The trial lesson is confirmed after payment is received.

After the trial lesson, the available place may be held for a limited period. Registration is completed when the remaining tuition and applicable registration fee have been paid.

16.How do I register for a program?

Please contact MK Singing School using one of the following methods:

Email: MKSingingSchool@gmail.com
WhatsApp or Text: 647-281-8325
WeChat: MK-Singing-School

Our administration team will confirm class availability, placement, tuition, and registration instructions.

Registration is complete only after payment has been received and confirmed.

Tuition and School Terms

17. How is the MKSS school year organized?

MKSS normally operates three terms each year:

Fall Term: September to November
Winter Term: January to early April
Spring Term: April to late June

Each regular term generally includes 12 weekly classes.

Exact dates, holidays, concerts, and registration deadlines are published on the School Calendar and Program Schedule pages.

18. How much is tuition?

Tuition depends on the program, term length, and lesson format.

Current group class tuition, registration fees, private lesson fees, and trial lesson fees are provided during registration and may also be published on the program schedule page.

Families should confirm current fees before making payment, as tuition and program details may be updated for future terms.

19.Is there a registration fee?

An annual student registration fee may apply.

The registration year and current fee will be stated in the registration information.

The registration fee supports student administration, school records, communication systems, and other school operations.

It is separate from tuition unless otherwise stated.

20. Are textbooks and learning materials included?

Students may use textbooks, sheet music, backing tracks, practice recordings, and supplemental materials.

Required published textbooks or sheet music are generally not included in tuition and must be purchased separately.

MKSS will provide the correct title, edition, or purchasing information.

Supplemental materials created or selected by MKSS may be provided through the student’s designated online folder.

21.What is the absence and makeup class policy?

The complete absence, cancellation, and makeup class policy is provided in the official MKSS School Policy at registration.

Because group classes operate on a fixed schedule, missed group lessons are generally not handled in the same way as missed private lessons.

Families should review the policy carefully before registering.

Please contact the school as early as possible when a student will be absent.

Practice and Student Progress

22. Do students receive homework?

Yes. Singing is a skill that develops through regular practice, not only through weekly class attendance.

Assignments may include:

Breathing and vocal exercises
Diction and pronunciation work
Melody and rhythm practice
Listening assignments
Lyric memorization
Character and story research
Repertoire preparation
Performance or recording assignments

Practice expectations vary according to the student’s age, level, and goals.

23.How much should students practice at home?

Younger beginners may begin with short, focused practice sessions with parental support.

Intermediate and advanced students are expected to practice more independently and consistently.

The teacher will provide specific instructions according to the student’s age and program.

In general, frequent and focused practice is more effective than one long practice session immediately before class.

24. How do parents learn about their child’s progress?

Teachers may provide feedback through class notes, assignments, videos, online folders, or direct communication, depending on the program.

MKSS may also offer individual parent-teacher conferences at designated times during the school year.

These meetings allow parents to discuss the student’s progress, practice habits, learning goals, and future class placement.

Performances, RCM Exams, and Competitions

25. Does MKSS hold student recitals each year?

MKSS places great importance on students’ practical performance experience. A student recital is held at the end of each term, for a total of three recitals each year.

MKSS students may also be invited to participate in community festivals, cultural celebrations, charity events, and public performances throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

26. Are concert and performance fees included in tuition?

The student’s participation in the regular term-end concert may be included in tuition when stated in the registration information.

Audience tickets, special costumes, external event registration, accompanist fees, travel expenses, or optional community performances may involve additional costs.

Any additional fee will be communicated before families commit to the activity.

Contact Information

27. How can I contact MK Singing School?

Email: MKSingingSchool@gmail.com
WhatsApp or Text: 647-281-8325
WeChat: MK-Singing-School
Website: www.mksingingschool.com

You can also follow MK Singing School on XiaoHongShu and WeChat Video Channels for school news, student achievements, performances, and registration updates.