Raue Center for the Arts hires education coordinator, lead instructor for new school

The Raue Center for the Arts in downtown Crystal Lake hired Alayna DeVar as the education coordinator and lead instructor for its new School for the Arts ahead of its October launch.

A graduate of Millikin University, where she studied vocal pedagogy, DeVar has been teaching private lessons for all ages and skill levels since 2013 and began both music directing and orchestra conducting for musicals in 2014, according to a news release.

From 2016 to 2019, she worked with professional singers as a vocal director, assisted with auditions and casting, and provided background vocals for several in-house production shows at Celebrity Cruises. She also is the voice of the elevator and phone systems for three of Celebrity’s newest ships.

DeVar occasionally visits Nashville, Tennessee, to coach. One client of hers became a winner of “The Voice” on NBC. She is featured singing live on camera in the movie “Office Christmas Party.”

Lessons with DeVar are available for all ages and skill levels.

“Prospective students can expect technique-driven vocal coaching for all styles,” DeVar said in a statement. “I like to foster a fun and encouraging environment that focuses on what each individual wants to learn. Although I specialize in belt technique, I am trained in classical, musical theater, ensemble and pop/rock singing.”