Estill Master Trainer Spotlight: Valerie Accetta

This Estill Master Trainer spotlight features, Valerie Accetta, based in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Valerie is Head of Musical Theatre & Associate Professor at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Valerie played Margy Frake in the First National Tour of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s State Fair, starring John Davidson.

Current home (city, country): Birmingham, Alabama, USA

Where did you grow up?: Columbus, Ohio, USA

Why you do you love Estill Voice Training?: As Jo Estill said, “everyone has a beautiful voice”, and if we center that idea in our work, every student feels empowered to celebrate their unique voice while searching for more vocal ease and new vocal choices. And I love that there is always more to learn!

Biggest professional challenge:Trying to work while raising a toddler!

Last book read: A Little Devil in America: In Praise of Black Performance by Hanif Abdurraqib

Person you would most like to have dinner with: My sister!

Favorite performer: Audra McDonald

Hobby(ies): Cooking, hiking, yoga.

Favorite quote: “Let your spirit sing. Let it all hang out. Your voice is beautiful. Believe!” – Jo Estill

People would be surprised to know: When I was 16, I was the 2nd runner-up in the “Looking for Wendy” pageant hosted by Wendy’s.