Meet the Team: Tookah Sapper
Developing the “Inner Musician”
February 2026 | by Alyssa Sonnier
Laughter. Lip trills. “Ooh” slides. And yes — even meowing. When Tookah’s voice classes are in full swing, the energy is contagious. Beneath the playful warmups is a deep understanding of vocal technique and a commitment to helping each student build both skill and self-assurance. I asked our powerhouse of a Co-Founder and Lead Voice Instructor to sit down with me and answer some really big questions about the voice, voice lessons, and the deeper meaning behind it all.
Curiosity is Tookah’s starting point as a teacher, and with voice, it’s how she helps students find their sound. A big difference between her piano lessons and voice lessons is that with voice, the instrument is inside the student. Curiosity in voice lessons - while used in piano, as well - is the gateway to play, to answers, to being at ease, and more. Tookah asks many questions during each class and also encourages students to ask questions and engage with their curiosity, not only to develop understanding of the skill of singing, but to develop understanding about themselves.
Tookah begins each of her students in something called “headvoice,” assuring me that no prior knowledge is required. Once she began describing her process for students, she launched into some fairly complex physiological terms and skill techniques that inform the decisions she makes. She spoke about the vocal folds, muscle strengthening, and the use of the body’s trunk - all of which prompted me to stop her with follow-up questions. Her knowledge base is extensive and I got the instant impression she nerds out about it on the regular.
Though we spoke at length about technical skills, something she emphasized more was the personal growth journey of each student. Tookah was living as a performer on the east coast when she realized she was no longer connected to her own personal growth. She became dissatisfied with what had led her to this point and, through a series of events, shaped her own teaching to reflect what she believes students need - regardless of their musical goals. Whether she is choosing repertoire, warmups, or competitions, Tookah makes each teaching decision based on what helps the individual student with their personal growth. She admits this is a difficult and ongoing task, but worthy of her time and effort. She wants each of her students to connect with themselves, develop an inner sense of confidence, and ultimately, develop their “inner musician.”
If you or your child are thinking about singing, here are some things to consider. Many studies show that for children, singing in community boosts self-esteem, social-identity, and mental health, which in turn affects their academic studies and engagement in school. Singing affects humans of any age on a physiological level, releasing endorphins, enhancing self-regulation, and aiding in stress relief. Tookah’s group voice classes for kids ages 6-13 spend 90% of class time singing together. Private lessons for ages 14 and up have moments of intentional breathing and inner connection, beyond just skill development. She encourages anyone of any age to try singing - even if it’s not something you “can do” because the benefits to you are huge.
If you have questions for Tookah or would like to register for a voice class, you can reach out to the Administrative Office at 405-463-9205 or info@okfinearts.com
