Demi VanderWerff is pursuing her Master of Music in Voice Performance at University of Mobile. She works as an active performer, director, and teacher in the Southeastern region. Demi has a passion for working with singers of all levels to promote a holistic lifestyle and is the founder of NamaSing, a meditative approach to vocal coaching and performance anxiety. Her favorite roles include Hansel (Hansel & Gretel), Kate (Madama Butterfly), Stephano (Romeo et Juliette), Mary (The Nativity According to St. Luke), and Musetta (La Boheme). Demi has been engaged with Mississippi Opera, University of Mobile Opera, Ars Nova School of the Arts, Jacksonville Opera Theater, Opera Upper West, Bloomington Cantata Project, The Huntsville Community Chorus, IU Opera, Druid City Opera, and Natchez Festival of Music. Interested in all aspects of theater, Ms. VanderWerff has also been involved stage-managing and assistant directing through the Natchez Festival of Music, Red River Lyric Opera, and the OK Mozart Festival.

"I believe that when we come out of this there really will be such a renewal and we're gonna have such gratitude for just being able to do this and gather together and to experience music and to experience creating it. So I think it's gonna be for the best in the end in terms of our careers."

We talked about Demi's business NamaSing, her mental struggle with vocal technique, the impact of college on career trajectory, and her experience during COVID-19.

I would like to let everyone know before listening to this that Demi's grandparents have been released from the hospital! What a blessing! I'm so happy for her and her family.