Kelsey Betzelberger
About
Hi, I’m Kelsey. I am a classically trained opera singer with both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Operatic Performance from Northwestern University in Chicago, where I starred in numerous productions (Marie Antoinette in Corigliano's The Ghosts of Versailles, Rosalinde in Strauss' Die Fledermaus, Anna Maurrant in Weill's Street Scene) and developed a deep love for storytelling through music. I performed with the Lyric Opera of Chicago in The Magic Flute as Pamina (my favorite role), Opera for the Young as Rosina in Rossini's Il barbiere di Siviglia, and as Miss Silverpeal in Opera North's production of Mozart's Der Schauspieldirektor. My operatic career has brought me to stages across Europe, including performances in Germany, Italy and Spain.
Along the way, I discovered a deep appreciation for languages - first out of necessity, as fluency in Italian, German and French was necessary for an operatic career - and later out of joy. That passion for language naturally sparked a lifelong interest in travel and cultural exploration. I’ve been fortunate to live in France, Germany, Austria, Croatia, England, the Netherlands, my home country of the United States and my adopted home of Spain. I’ve also visited over 50 countries, often singing along the way!
For over 15 years, I have taught music and language to young learners all over the world. I was one of the first teachers with VIPKid, where I taught over 8,000 ESL students, and during COVID I built a vibrant Outschool profile, teaching language through music (mainly German) to over 400 children under the age of five, becoming one of their top 50 most popular teachers out of over 16,000 with 1,300+ 5-star reviews. Each experience has deepened my understanding of how music and language connect, and inspired me to share that joy by helping children build confidence, curiosity and communication skills through smiles, patience and song!
Teaching Style
I specialize in teaching young children language through music, using songs, rhythm and joyful repetition to help little ones absorb vocabulary and pronunciation in the most natural, delightful way. Music is a powerful tool - it lights up memory, builds confidence and transforms learning into play. When children are smiling, moving, singing, and laughing, they are relaxed and ready to learn.
Curriculum
In my lessons, I create a nurturing space full of warmth, color and patience. Every child learns at their own pace, and I believe in encouraging curiosity with gentle guidance, consistent praise and genuine joy. Whether we’re dancing to a rhyming French song, clapping to the beat of Spanish syllables, or giggling over the sounds of Italian vowels, each moment is filled with connection and discovery.
I aim to foster not just language skills, but a lifelong love for learning. My goal is to help children feel proud of what they can do, excited to try new things, and eager to share their voices—literally and linguistically. Together, we’re not just learning words - we’re making music, building confidence and creating memories that literally sing.
Credentials & Affiliations
I hold both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Operatic Performance from Northwestern University in Chicago. In addition to my formal musical training, I am certified in both TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). I've visited over 50 countries and speak German, French, Italian and Spanish. I’ve been teaching language and music for over 15 years, working with young learners around the world in schools, private lessons and international programs.
