Welcome to The Swain Studio, a boutique-style vocal instruction school conveniently located in the heart of Upper Arlington.

The Swain Studio provides vocal instruction to students in a multitude of styles ranging from musical theater to classical, pop/rock and jazz, all backed by a science-informed approach to teaching that emphasizes you as a whole musician, actor, or artist-actor.

Whatever your skill level or goals, we believe that teaching is a privilege and seek to inspire the next generation of artists in the Greater Columbus area and beyond.

We offer lessons in 30, 45, and 60 minute intervals on a variety of instruments. Whether you’re looking to prepare for an upcoming audition, learning for enjoyment, or simply want to impress your friends at the next karaoke night, we’re delighted and determined to help you reach your goals.

Click here to learn more about studying at The Swain Studio.

A large group of people, including children and adults, poses on a stage in front of a red curtain, likely after a performance or event. Some are smiling, and a few are dressed in festive or formal attire.

Exceptional fine arts training with highly qualified professionals.

Our instructors boast training from Shenandoah Conservatory, University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music, New York University, Manhattan School of Music, The Ohio State University, Ohio University, The Voice Study Centre: University of Wales, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Sunderman Conservatory, and Otterbein University.

Most have at minimum one Master's degree, serve or have served on collegiate faculties, are active performers, or actively completing their doctoral studies.

They’re serious about their craft and passionate about teaching the next generation of artists.

Ready to Get Started?

Click here to book your initial Assessment Lesson

A man with short curly hair, a beard, and light brown skin, wearing a white shirt and a brown blazer, looking at the camera with a neutral expression against a plain light gray background.

Justin T. Swain, M.M., M.A., V.C.
Master Instructor of Voice & Vocal Pedagogy

Portrait of a woman with long, wavy blonde hair, wearing a black turtleneck sweater.

A woman with long brown hair and blue eyes smiling in a blue sweater, standing outdoors near a wooden wall.

Alexa Baker, M.M.
Associate Instructor of Voice & Acting

Renée Holzmeier, B.M.
Associate Instructor of Voice & Piano

Close-up of a smiling woman with curly hair, multiple facial piercings, wearing a black shirt, outdoors with green trees in the background.

Eve Julien, M.M.
Associate Instructor of Voice

Geoffrey Gear, M.M.
Associate Instructor of Voice

Learn More About Our Instructors

Recent Articles & Updates

“For the past several years I’ve presented and guest lectured on the importance of vocal hygiene at music studios, universities, and various arts organizations. While many people have received the advice to “drink 8-10 eight ounce glasses of water a day,” that isn’t exactly true for all individuals.”

In this article, author and studio owner Justin T. Swain demystifies and provides clarity on what vocal hygiene is, provides tips on how to promote vocal health and longevity, as well as offers guidance to a wider audience than just the students he sees on a weekly basis in the studio.

Broadway Dreams 4 Year Full Tuition Scholarship - Millikan University - BFA Musical Theater
Broadway Dreams Full Ride Scholarship - Summer Intensive
Sarah (role) Ragtime - All Ohio Thespian Festival
Janis Ian (role) Mean Girls - Olentangy Orange High School
Catherine of Aragon (role) SIX - Olentangy Orange High School
Thespy Solo Performance Superior Rating - Ohio Thespian Festival
3rd Place Upper HS Musical Theater Voice - Ohio NATS Student Auditions

Student Ovations

Dria Mogaka

CAPA Marquee Finalist for Best Actor in a Leading Role
Benny (role) In The Heights - Eastmoor Academy
Mitch Mahoney (role) Putnam County Spelling Bee - Short North Stage Intern Program
1st Place Upper HS Commercial Voice, 3rd Place Upper HS Musical Theater Voice - Ohio NATS Student Auditions

Kyle Meadows

Wednesday Addams (role) Addams Family - Westerville Central High School

Keys Stauffer

Jebby Awards Breakthrough Performer of the Year Nominee

Meghan Noonan

Juan (role) in Salomé & Aruaca Musical

Antonio Dean

2026 CAPA Marquee Winner for Best Actor in a Leading Role
Bobby Strong (role) Urinetown - Bexley High School
Broadway Dreams Full Ride Scholarship - Summer Intensive
Young Man (role) Ragtime - All Ohio Thespian Festival
William Barfée (role) Putnam County Spelling Bee - Short North Stage Intern Program
Thespy Solo Performance Superior Rating - Ohio Thespian Festival

Zeke Moses

Eurydice (role) Hadestown: Teen Edition - Olentangy High School
BFA Musical Theater - Ohio Northern University
Grand Champion 1st Runner Up Solo Competition - Marion Harding Singsational
Marysville Showcase Best Performer

Kayden Greco

Wednesday Addams (understudy) & Ensemble, Addams Family - Westerville Central High School
OMEA Class A Solo Superior Rating

Maddie Porretta

Prince Eric (role) in The Little Mermaid - Worthington Community Theater
Lucas Sullivant (role) in Lucas Sullivant Tonight! - Franklinton Historical Society / CAPA

Jake McAskill

Click here for more recent student accomplishments!

Krista Lively Stauffer, Acting Coach/Teacher, Columbus-Based Artist-Teacher & Film/TV Actress

“As a professional acting coach/teacher, I need someone to help my students who understands pedagogy and can train ALL voices properly. Justin has worked with a large number of my acting students over the years that need vocal training, and his work has brought them leaps and bounds. He works with students of all ages to help them understand how their voices work and how to use that voice on stage. Justin is a patient, calm, voice of reason, and professional to help students of all levels work toward their goals of performance.”