About Kelsey Leonard
At the heart of my work is a deep passion for helping performers feel good in their bodies—integrating nervous system awareness, physical longevity, and artistic joy. Whether through tap dance, vocal technique, or hypermobility consulting, I am committed to providing performers with the tools they need to move, sing, and create with confidence and ease.
A Life in Motion: Tap Dance
Tap dance has been a defining force in my life since the age of three. Growing up in Portland, I trained under Cindy Brenn before earning my Master of Arts from NYU Gallatin in Tap Dance. My journey has taken me across the country to train with the world's best tap dancers, deepening my love for the artistry, history, and technique of this rich and ever-evolving dance form.
As a teacher, I am dedicated to helping students develop strong musicality, historical knowledge, and professional-level technique. I’ve co-founded and led nonprofit organizations like the Central Oregon Rhythm Project, Portland Tap Alliance, and Portland Tap Company—always with the mission of expanding access to tap dance education. My choreography has been performed nationwide, and my students have gone on to train and perform at prestigious festivals and competitions.
The Power of the Voice: Vocal Instruction
Singing has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Through my own journey as a hypermobile singer, I discovered the critical connection between body awareness, breath, and vocal technique. Now, as I train for certification through the Institute for Vocal Advancement (IVA), I specialize in working with singers who have hypermobility or other special considerations.
My approach to vocal instruction is grounded in both science and artistry. I help singers develop strength, resilience, and balance in their voices while respecting the unique needs of their bodies. Whether you're a professional performer or a dedicated student, I work with you to find freedom and joy in your singing.
Supporting Hypermobile Performers
At age 12, I woke up one morning unable to move my neck—a moment that set me on a lifelong journey of navigating an unrecognized hypermobile body. It wasn’t until 2020 that I received my official diagnosis of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), validating years of pain, medical dismissal, and perseverance.
Now, I am deeply committed to supporting other hypermobile performers. I provide guidance on injury prevention, movement strategies, strength training, and medical exploration and self-advocacy to help artists sustain their craft. By blending knowledge from both the performing arts and medical communities, I help performers find sustainable ways to move and create—because your artistry should never come at the expense of your well-being.
My Mission
Whether you are a dancer, a singer, or a hypermobile performer seeking support, my mission is simple: to help you feel at home in your body while pursuing the art that you love.
Ready to work together? Let’s move, sing, and thrive—on your terms.
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!