Don’t tell Jan Cooper that you can’t sing.
“Singing is within all of us. Some people are natural and others need to be trained. If you can speak, you can sing,” says Cooper, a vocal coach with 40 years’ experience.
Introducing his vocal training programs to the Kerrisdale Community Centre this year, Cooper brings a variety of musical and theatrical experience to the classroom. He got his break during the production of Godspell at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, sang with his own band for more than 20 years and has worked with a wide range of producers, writers and musicians – among them are Loverboy, Whitesnake, Courtney Love, Grammy-award-winning Bob Rock and dancer-singer Alex Wong (The Greatest Showman).
Cooper has also taught theatre for 20 years (including nine at the high school level), studied at Juilliard in New York and has a degree in early childhood education from UBC. He’s produced and directed high school productions of Jesus Christ Superstar and Rent, and most recently wrote a kids musical based on Squishmallows.
Growing up in Tillsonburg, Ontario, Cooper now resides in Kerrisdale. When he’s not teaching, he can be found swimming at the Kerrisdale Pool or exploring AI programs to help craft musical theatre productions.
Looking for a creative outlet for your child? Or need a little help finding your singing voice? Register for one of Jan Cooper’s summer programs below:
• Summer Specialty Camp – Children’s Musical Theatre Program: Seven-to-12 year olds will enjoy learning to act and sing in a musical based on Squishmallows. July 21-15, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; $75; activity number 564066.
• Group Vocal Evaluation: Adults will have fun applying voice techniques to their song of choice before performing in front of the class. July 28, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; free; registration required; activity number 564939.
Learn more about KCC instructors by visiting our Instructor Bio page. This page will continue to grow as more instructors submit their profile information.
2 Replies to “Instructor Spotlight: Jan Cooper”
Hello Mr. Jan Cooper,
My name is Harold Tu. I came across the group vocal evaluation at Kerrisdale center. I am an amateur singer. I sing mostly Elvis Presley and Roy Orbison song and Chinese songs.. People say I am a very good singer. I also record a tape of myself singing. I also wrote one song I would like you to evaluate. On July 28, 2025 I will be here attending your class. I wish that you can hear my songs and evaluate my voice. Recently, I sang songs while I am singing in the swimming pool. People heard it and they say my singing is great. If you have the times can you contact me and meet with me. Thank you.
Thanks for your message and interest in our Group Vocal Evaluation class. If you haven’t already, please register here. And your message has been forwarded to the instructor.