“Dear David. I really wish to share just how profoundly affected I am from working with you during the 3-Day Nuova Intensive 2008. It has only been a few days since leaving Edmonton but I have been working on the techniques you gave me and I really do feel a difference, and my teacher has noticed a shift in me. I am amazed at how the breath can touch on one’s emotional state; I have now found that a way to release these emotions is through breathing techniques. I have also noticed where I hold and most importantly I have discovered why, in both singing and everyday life—thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have imparted just a tiny sampling of your wisdom and it has empowered me to continue on the journey.” - Elisa Righele, Vancouver, BC

“All I have ever wanted to do was sing. As I am over 60 years of age, and could not match pitch; I was told by one teacher to “take up knitting”. I have also been suffering from panic attacks. Together, Mr. Wilson and I discovered that I was not tone-deaf after all, but that I had learned to shut off my ears and reverse my breathing (tightening my abdominal muscles inward during inhaling) due to emotional abuse I suffered as a child. Mr. Wilson led me through a process that helped me move past these troubles, joyfully, and safely. My panic attacks are now a thing of the past, I can breath powerfully and match pitch, and recently I passed my Grade 3 Toronto Conservatory Exam.” - Stella, Calgary, AB

“Before I saw David my doctor thought I may need to try an inhaler for what he called “exercise induced asthma” on my long runs. It always hit me within the first 5 or 6 km that I would feel really tight through the chest, found it hard to breathe and would start coughing up stuff. It turns out I was told bad advice by a personal trainer - to "tighten my abs when I run". It took only two sessions with David to get results; he taught me how to breathe properly utilizing my diaphragm both at rest and when running, and showed me stretches and strengtheners for the chest, ribcage and lungs. Thanks to him I now breathe freely when I run, I feel more relaxed, and all my record times have now been beaten!" - Mandy Esch, Edson, AB

“When I came to David for help for my anxiety I was having two to three panic attacks a day. After one month of sessions with David I was down to one panic attack every two or three days. After three months of sessions I was experiencing one panic attack a week. And after six months of David’s sessions, my attacks would happen once a month at most. Since then my episodes have been, for the most part, a thing of the past. I have continued to use David’s ingenious and creative methods for controlling my anxiety since then. Thank you so much David, for giving me back control of my life.” - Charlotte, Edmonton, AB

"After attending two of David’s workshops, I am no longer afraid of the floor. In my younger years, I was a hiker and enjoyed downhill skiing. A back injury caused by a traffic accident was the reason I became less active. Though I had successful surgery 8 years ago, I was still afraid of falling. Since then I have been very careful where I walk, and have been unable to get down on the floor to do any kind of exercise, because I could never get up without assistance. In addition, I would find myself falling backwards on my chair if I tried to get up quickly.  By learning how to exhale with power and to relax my surface abdominals instead of tightening as I move; I now have much more power and mobility. I am able to get down and up from the floor faster and with much less pain, and rise from a chair with ease.  I look forward to working with David more in the future."  - Audrey Brooks, Edmonton, AB

"Our organization hired David to speak about decreasing the effects of stress on the body at our annual conference. The positive feedback we received about his session was overwhelming. Participants were blown away by the immediate changes they felt from the session and couldn’t wait to use their new knowledge to manage their stress, both personally and professionally. In fact, we loved him so much we invited him back the next year for two sessions and both maxed out!” - Angela Hill, Communications and Curriculum Development, Early Childhood Development Support Services, Edmonton, AB

 “I have taken part in David’s yoga/breathing/voice workshops on four different occasions. After the first session in Edmonton, I came back to Edson and raved about the experience. A friend of mine who works for a regional arts organization later brought David to Edson to conduct two community workshops. The principal of the school where I work brought him to do a workshop for our entire staff. Following the session at school, many of my colleagues expressed an interest in having more yoga/breathing/voice sessions with David. Each time I participated I felt more open and energized. My body felt elongated and oxygenated. Following the third workshop, I put into practice the six point breathing David suggested for the beginning and end of the day. I found myself feeling more awake in the morning—even when I had to get up for an early exercise class and hadn’t slept enough. David’s workshops have encouraged me to be more conscious of my breath and to use its power. I am an avid cross-country skier and the trail system I use has a few big hills that make me nervous—mostly because I have had big wipe-outs on them. Now when I find myself at the top of these hills, I remember to exhale. Focusing on my breath, even when conditions are fast, has helped me stay relaxed and up on my skis.” - Robyne Wilock
, Edson, Alberta

“Having been a singer for many years, I had never done any form of yoga before taking David Wilson's class at Opera Nuova 2007. During his class I was able to access my breath capacity which has had an enormous positive affect on my overall sound. I also found that the way Mr. Wilson integrates vocal technique, breath, and body enables each part to be completely warmed up by the end of class. This meant that I could easily sing at 9:30 a.m. after one of his classes. It was amazing!” - Kelly Coubrough, Garibaldi Highlands, BC

“I have spent years working on all aspects of my vocal technique, and there certainly have been “aha!” moments dealing with placement, resonance, passaggio, etc. However, it was David's in-depth and informed approach to breath control that was an epiphany for me. He opened my eyes to what I have or have not been using; from the clenched rectus abdominis that we erroneously think we should use—and that inhibits our true potential—to the realization of exactly where our lungs are located and how little we often use them. One hour concentrating just on breathing and its connection to my voice was a revelation; I highly recommend his work.” - Edith Pritchard, Mus.Dip, PPRNCM, MMus. Calgary 2012 Cultural Ambassador

“David Wilson's work is unlike anything I have yet encountered. As singers, we spend so much time working on the vocal mechanism, that we often forget the integral role the body plays in healthy vocal production. David's approach is a full-body approach. This angle, especially when applied to the breath, completely changes the world in which you create your sound. Suddenly you are no longer attempting to put your voice in a box, so you are able to finally produce the sounds that you aspire to. The yoga is fantastic, the breath work is freeing, the voice is powerful, and the result wonderful. His work is helpful for singers at every level, regardless of age or experience. David's method for teaching voice allows you to free the artist within, releasing your true voice and your true expression.”- Chris Enns, Winnipeg, MB

“Working with David enabled me to get past some persistent physical blocks that were inhibiting my sound. By opening up my breathing I was able to reach a level of relaxation that has given me much more confidence and enjoyment when I sing.” - Neil Reimer, baritone, Victoria, BC

“David Wilson helped me find a very natural air movement in my singing that gave both incredible freedom and incredible power to my voice that I had never before experienced.” - Kristin Hoff, Soprano, Montréal, QB

"As a professional singer with a big voice I’ve always been self-conscious. I wasn’t breathing properly and I wanted to be small and hide. I felt like I had no control over my sound until I started working with David Wilson in Edmonton and learned ‘The Wilson Method’. Since working with David, my confidence has shot up. Now, because I am breathing properly I am able to properly sustain my sound. And well, my asthma has improved significantly. His technique has helped me so much and I recommend his work to anyone who is searching for a more beautiful, controlled sound and strong, full-body support. Thank you David!"  - Rebecca Jessamine, Calgary, AB

“I realized one key factor while watching David Wilson conduct a performance of the musical RENT; the singers and actors onstage had complete comfort, confidence and trust in his musical direction. This provided a solid foundation for every moment of the story. I know very few conductors who are truly "in the moment" with the singers, instead of dictating the way a moment should be like. He has an amazing gift – he feels the importance of the key moments, and then motivates the band to play with the appropriate intensity, volume and tempo to support the emotional story. David has a unique ability to bring out the fine subtleties of music, while also spinning out the grand musical architecture. His immense understanding of singing and musical flow results in a truly cohesive musical theatre experience where every moment and transition is executed flawlessly.” - Martin Galba, Co-Artistic Director, Two One-Way Tickets to Broadway

"After working with David for only a few months I was able to tap into more power, vocal stamina and control than I had ever been able to access in the past; I discovered that the old way of doing things is not always the best. David’s professionalism along with his Wilson Method techniques helped me access my full vocal potential without struggle or straining. He is deeply committed to all of his students and helping them be the best they can be. David helped me access a wider vocal range in my chest voice. belt, and most importantly, he helped me to find the full power of my own voice. Most people only sing with a fraction of their voice - thank you David, for the privilege of being your student." - Pauline Lee, Singer, Actress, Screenwriter, Edmonton, AB

“I believe David Wilson to be one of the most influential breath, body and voice pedagogues in our country. Having studied throughout North America and Europe, I have never come across anyone as dynamic in both wisdom and skill. His approachable and warm personality paired with his extensive knowledge lends itself to every singer from beginner to professional. He has a contagious passion for unlocking your greatest potential and does so with vibrant enthusiasm. If you are able to have a session with this man I guarantee it will change you from the inside out no matter what your goals may be.”  - Michelle Minke, Cowtown Opera: Artistic Director. Opera Singer, Voice Teacher Dip. Mus., B.Mus, PG Dip.Opera, M.Mus.Vocal Ped, Calgary, AB

“I cannot say enough about David's ability with the voice and his gift in inspiring kids to sing better! He worked with my high school choral groups for approximately 5 years as a conducting clinician. David is a flexible and non-judgmental teacher who creates a safe atmosphere to try new things, and for kids to reach their full potential. His approach using yoga techniques continually amazed both my students and I as we realized how much more we could do with our voices, and how effortless singing powerfully and musically could be. His conducting and directing advice to me was also invaluable. If you are hiring David, you are hiring a musical, vocal and teaching master.” - Charity Braun Hukulak, Edmonton Christian School

“David’s choral workshops are insightful, and engaging. The energy he brings into any room is contagious! His core and breath work allow students to become simultaneously calm and energized, and much more confident in themselves as singers and as people. He encourages everyone to find and use their own inner superheroes! Thank you David for breathing additional life into our choral program!”- Brianna Dennehy, B.Mus./ Mus.Ed., B.Ed, M.Mus. Swift Current Comprehensive High School, Swift Current, SK

“David makes you go away feeling better about music, the world, and yourself.” -Lori, Martini Recorder Quintet, Edmonton, AB

Since I began teaching in a high school choral program ten years ago, I have had David workshop my choirs at the beginning of each school year.  Nothing else gains us as much confidence and musical ground in as short a time.  With his instant rapport and easy manner, in a mere few hours he builds trust and relationship with public school teens.  Though excellent singing is the goal (and result), his work is about so much more. He breaks through long-held negative breathing patterns, difficult emotional layers, self-consciousness and fear - and therefore helps inexperienced singers sing with full-voiced power and joy. His technical methods are proven upon doing, and easily reapplied once experienced.  My choristers are changed after their time with David, and continue to apply his wisdom throughout their journey in choir…and in life. - Mona Holton, Choral Director, Memorial Composite High School, Co-Founder and Artistic Director, Vocal Collective, Stony Plain, AB

“Edmonton Musical Theatre has had the great pleasure of working with Mr. David Wilson since 2010. Both in a group setting and on an individual level, his musical ear and abilities are so fine-tuned that he can decipher a vocal challenge in the student’s voice, proceed with a certain exercise, and offer a precise suggestion in an understandable manner that the student can incorporate. It is inspirational to watch the students transform though challenges in a very short amount. Both the students and the staff members at Edmonton Musical Theatre have the utmost respect for Mr. Wilson. The students consistently praise the experiences they have encountered with David. His dedication to the students fosters an atmosphere where the individual is honored, challenged, and encouraged along their musical theatre journey. As an artistic team member, David, supports his peers and brings a grounded joy to our work. His theatre instincts go above and beyond the vocal techniques that he can share. It is a rare skill set for an instructor to have all of the tools to facilitate a musical theatre performance, but David does indeed possess this skill set that he shares openly with enthusiasm. He has become a most valuable member of our instructional team at our organization. His experience, talents, and successful results continue to exceed our expectations. The wonderful, positive ripple effect that David creates in touching the lives of those students studying with him is why we are so grateful that he graces our organization and brings it to a higher standard.” - Steffni Ault, General Manager & Choreographer, Edmonton Musical Theatre

“I have recently spent a weekend studying breath, voice, and yoga with David. As a full-time yoga professional I have enjoyed many such weekends, practicing with and learning from some of Canada's best and brightest yoga minds. This weekend stood out for me. David has a rare and powerful gift to not only teach the A to Zs of breathing but to draw from his students the full extent of their vocal power. He is truly a yogic maestro of body, breath and voice.” - Colin Hall, Co-Owner, Bodhi Tree Yoga Studio, Regina, SK

 “A class with David is filled with humour and a joyful exploration of yoga. He brings to his classes an intuitive understanding of the importance of breath and the power of awareness. This is why I return to him even as I work to complete my own teacher training.”   - Steven Bell, Edmonton, AB


“Being recently introduced to the practice of yoga as a key component of vocal technique and training was an eye-opening experience for me.
I look forward to further exploring David’s pedagogical approach, where he promotes the discovery of greater freedom of the body and the breath in order to achieve increased vocal awareness, expression, flexibility and power.” - Dr. Catherine Abele, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB

"David’s approach to breathing is refreshingly unique and accessible. Unlike traditional yoga pranayama that seeks to control or direct the breath, David takes breathing that has been shaped by our contemporary stressful lifestyles and postural misalignments and provides teachers and students with tools to help create a free and flow-full breath. I have been privileged to work with David in many classes and workshops. I have been able to personally integrate his teachings to help me more easily calm my body and mind. Beyond the personal benefits I regularly integrate his teachings into my yoga therapy programming to help students with everything from chronic pain, pelvic health, to cancer. If you are a yoga teacher, a student, a singer, if you deal with anxiety or asthma, if you have pelvic health issues, or really if you just have a curiosity to move better David’s work is a necessity to help you better access freedom in your breathing." - Sarah Garden, Co-Owner, Bodhi Tree Yoga, Regina, SK

"For a better part of the year just prior to my first 10 week hatha yoga session with David, I was experiencing plantar fasciitis in both of my feet.  I had received medical treatment and learned the value of highly supportive footwear, but I never experienced full relief from the pain.  Beginning yoga with David and trusting his knowledge, instruction, process and care was the best thing I could have done to help heal my feet!  I am happy to report that the plantar fasciitis has never returned.  I have been able to take some what I have learned in David’s classes and integrate it into my health regimen.  I continue to be a student of David’s.  The presence he brings into his classes is helpful for not only my body, but for my mind and spirit as well." -Elizabeth S, Edmonton, AB

"David Wilson provided the perfect session to start off our staff retreat, sharing excellent techniques to avoid repetitive strain injuries when working in our desk jobs. He approached the group with humor and professionalism that helped to engage all in the activities. Some members had expressed "suspicion of yoga" ahead of time but David aptly managed to alleviate their apprehension. As one member commented, "now I'm a convert". I keep the Office Yoga poster from David on the wall beside my desk reminding me to do the series of stretches regularly throughout the day. His interactive presentation was a great team building session and provided us with take home tools to maintain a healthier workplace. Thanks, David!" - Lindsey Rose, Assistant Chair (Admin) Dept. of History & Classics, University of Alberta