La Nell Martin

La Nell Martin is a highly respected educator, vocal coach, and choral director with more than 20 years of classroom teaching
experience and a Master’s degree in Music Education. She has worked extensively in K-12 schools, higher education, and
community programs including the Oakland Youth Chorus where she has been Artistic Director for two decades, bringing a deep
understanding of vocal pedagogy and culturally responsive teaching to her work. Her expertise in gospel, jazz, world music, and contemporary choral styles allows her to engage students across a wide range of musical traditions.

As a music educator, La Nell specializes in developing young voices, with a focus on vocal health, technique, and musical expression. She has designed and led curriculum-based music programs that emphasize both individual skill-building and collaborative ensemble work. Her extensive experience working with diverse student populations has given her a unique ability to create inclusive and engaging learning environments where every student feels empowered to find their voice. In addition to her teaching career, La Nell is a seasoned choral director, having served as Minister of Music at an Oakland Baptist church for more than two decades. Bringing real-world performance experience to her instruction, her passion for music education, combined with her technical expertise, makes her a powerful force in nurturing the next generation of vocal artists.