Yvonne O’Toole: Award-Winning Vocal Coach | Professional Singer | Founder of VOICE BY YVONNE O’TOOLE
Yvonne O’Toole is a professional singer, seasoned performer, and highly respected vocal coach based in Birr, Co. Offaly. With over 19 years’ experience performing on national and international stages, she brings a wealth of real-world performance insight, discipline, and artistry to every lesson she teaches.
In 2025, Yvonne was honoured by the Royal Irish Academy of Music as a RIAM Spotlight Awards Teacher, a national recognition of her exceptional dedication to vocal education and the outstanding achievements of her students. The award, signed by RIAM Director Deborah Kelleher and Chairperson Judith Woodworth, celebrates both the success of her pupils and the pivotal role teachers like Yvonne play in inspiring and nurturing talent.
“This award is a huge honour,” says Yvonne. “But more than anything, it’s a tribute to the hard work and heart my students bring to every session. Watching them grow in skill and confidence is the most rewarding part of what I do.”
Studio Achievements
Since founding VOICE BY YVONNE O’TOOLE, Yvonne has grown her studio from a small private teaching space into a respected singing academy drawing students from across the region. Her pupils have:
- Achieved top results in RIAM exams
- Performed at national competitions and festivals
- Taken early steps toward professional careers in music and theatre
Whether you’re preparing for exams, auditions, performances, or simply want to find your voice, Yvonne offers expert guidance and a proven track record of helping singers achieve their goals.
Teaching Philosophy
Yvonne’s teaching style is rooted in her own journey, from the spotlight of the stage to the focus of the teaching studio. She believes in building not just technical skill, but confidence, stage presence, and a deep love of music.
Her lessons are tailored to each student, covering classical, contemporary, and musical theatre styles in a supportive, encouraging environment.
Early Childhood Education Background
In addition to her musical qualifications, Yvonne also holds a BA in Early Childhood Care & Education from Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick. Throughout her degree, Yvonne studied critical areas such as child development, learning theories, educational psychology, and early childhood curriculum design.
This foundation allows her to connect with children and teens on a deeper level, understanding their developmental stages and tailoring her teaching approach to suit their unique needs.
Musical Education & Vocal Expertise
Yvonne holds an Honours Diploma in Performance from the Victoria College of Music in London and has achieved multiple Distinctions in Voice with The Royal Irish Academy of Music.
She has earned numerous placements at the prestigious Feis Ceoil, showcasing her dedication and expertise in the vocal arts. Yvonne’s commitment to excellence in vocal training makes her a highly skilled mentor for young aspiring singers.
Wedding Industry & Public Engagement
Yvonne is well-known in the wedding industry, having been featured in Confetti magazine and recognized as a finalist in the Best Wedding Singer category at the Mrs2Be Brides’ Choice Awards for two consecutive years.
She has been featured on wedding podcasts, where she shares her expertise with couples planning their special day, and regularly appears as a special guest at wedding events throughout Ireland.
Commitment to Education & Mentorship
With her diverse experience, Yvonne is not only a renowned performer but also a passionate educator. She uses her musical expertise and understanding of child development to inspire and guide young singers, helping them build confidence and reach their full potential.
Through her leadership in the Singing Academy, Yvonne strives to cultivate a supportive and nurturing environment where students of all levels can develop their talents and pursue their love of singing.
Performance Experience & Industry Recognition
Yvonne has captivated audiences in both classical and contemporary settings, performing at esteemed venues across Ireland, such as The Mansion House in Dublin, Knock Basilica, Dromoland Castle, and Cashel Palace. She has also had the pleasure of guest performing with other communities and singers in their productions, demonstrating her versatility and collaborative spirit. Additionally, her collaboration with the Celtic Tenors in 2019 showcased her ability to adapt to various musical styles and genres.
Her musical theatre experience includes starring roles in productions such as Jekyll & Hyde, Sweeney Todd, and Fiddler on the Roof. Her solo concerts at Charleville Castle, Kinnitty Castle, and Birr Theatre & Arts Centre were met with critical acclaim and sold-out audiences, further solidifying her reputation as a leading performer.
Yvonne was offered a place at the prestigious West End Academy in London, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to the arts. While she ultimately chose not to accept the position, she remains grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to continue performing and developing her career closer to home before establishing the singing academy.
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