David Cooke, Director of Accent Music, also gives voice lessons and piano lessons at the school. He has extensive experience as a singer and voice teacher.  He received his undergraduate degree in Vocal Performance from Duquesne University in 1991.  He has a Master’s Degree in Arts Management from Carnegie Mellon University and has also finished  most of the coursework for a second Masters Degree in Vocal Performance. 

In addition to his education, Mr. Cooke has performed with both the Pittsburgh Opera and the Opera Theatre of Pittsburgh.  He has been involved in both mainstage productions and in theatre outreach programs for kids.  He has also held singing positions at several area churches for most of the last 20 years.  In addition, he has worked often as a singer for special concerts and weddings.

Mr. Cooke has been teaching voice for over 12 years, consistently maintaining a schedule of 30-60 students.  During that time, he has worked with students in many diverse styles, including classical, opera, musical theatre, pop, rock, country and sacred. What sets him apart from many teachers is his ability to train different types of voices with a classical approach, while also helping them to maintain their basic style and sound. He has also taught many classes and private students for several performing arts/dance studios, including the Maryanne Lorraine School of Dance in Penn Hills and the Sewickley School of Performing Arts in Sewickley.  Most of this work focused on preparing students for auditions for broadway style singing. Mr. Cooke’s teaching style is relaxed, yet challenging and thorough.  He believes in getting the most from his students; but also in having fun while you’re at it.