Mary Kray

Biography:

Mary Kray’s teaching style is flexible, supportive, and student-centered. She meets singers wherever they are in their musical journey, whether they’re preparing for auditions, developing technique, overcoming stage fright, or simply discovering the joy of singing. As a multi-genre vocalist, Mary brings experience in classical music, musical theater, contemporary styles, and songwriting to her teaching. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Classical Vocal Performance from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Music in Opera Performance from Boston Conservatory at Berklee. She has worked as a music director with Arlington Children’s Theater, as a vocal coach and music theory instructor for Berklee’s Vocal Choral Intensive, and as a musicianship teacher with the Handel and Haydn Society Youth Choruses.

Alongside teaching, Mary performs as a classical singer with companies throughout Boston’s vibrant classical music community. She is an Emerging Artist with Boston Lyric Opera and a member of the Choir of the New Jerusalem at the Church on the Hill in Boston. She has received recognition at the district and regional levels of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions (2018–2021), as well as from the National Society of Arts and Letters.

Mary’s students have earned lead roles in school musicals, gained admission to their dream music programs, and found the confidence to join community choirs or simply pursue singing for joy. Her goal is to help each student develop versatile, sustainable vocal skills while honoring their individual artistry and building a lasting, positive relationship with their voice.

Teaching Philosophy:

Mary's teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that vocal health extends beyond technique alone. She takes a holistic approach, helping students understand how physical coordination, mental focus, and emotional well-being all contribute to healthy, expressive singing. She strives to create a safe, nonjudgmental learning environment where students can explore their voices without the pressure of perfectionism. By combining evidence-based vocal pedagogy with nervous system regulation techniques to manage performance anxiety, Mary helps students build both technical skill and genuine confidence.

Education:

Northern Arizona University: Flagstaff, AZ

Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance

Boston Conservatory at Berklee: Boston, MA

Master of Music in Opera Performance