PETTERI MANSIKKA
"Every person has a unique voice that deserves to be heard."
Petteri Mansikka
Petteri Mansikka is a vocal pedagogue (BA), musician and versatile event-industry professional from Joensuu, known for a modern, student-centred teaching style. He graduated as a music pedagogue from Karelia University of Applied Sciences, majoring in pop/jazz vocals and vocal pedagogy, and in autumn 2023 he began his Master’s degree studies at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences to further deepen his expertise. He currently works as an experienced freelancer in music, teaching and event-industry roles.
Petteri believes that everyone has the right to their own voice and musical self-expression. His teaching is based on up-to-date research, diverse voice techniques, a strong knowledge of anatomy and a continuous commitment to developing his own skills. He makes use of several contemporary voice pedagogy models in his work, such as Estill Voice Training, Balance in Phonation and Complete Vocal Technique, applying them flexibly to the student’s individual needs and goals.
As a teacher, Petteri is encouraging, knowledgeable and approachable. He creates a safe and inspiring atmosphere where students can grow both technically and artistically while strengthening their own unique voice. He supports each singer’s individual learning path, whether they are a beginner, a more experienced hobbyist or a performing professional. His teaching emphasises interaction, nurturing creativity and pedagogy that supports overall well-being.
Petteri Mansikka does not only teach singing – he teaches vocal freedom, self-confidence and the power of expression. For anyone seeking modern, versatile and genuinely individual vocal coaching, Petteri is the right choice.
Singing Belongs to Everyone
I believe that everyone can learn to sing, make music as a hobby, and create music. My work as a singing teacher has strengthened my conviction that anyone can develop their singing skills, as long as they receive the right kind of support and guidance that suits them. Singing is not only for the few and gifted – just as exercise is not only for professional athletes. Singing is a skill that anyone can learn, if they want to!
It is important that every student is able to make their own artistic choices. There is a conscious effort to dismantle the traditional teacher–student power dynamic and to encourage the student towards self-direction, self-reflection, and critical thinking. As a singing teacher and music professional, the role is to walk alongside in the process – the task is to offer tools, perspectives and options – not decisions or definitions of what is good and what is bad. Decisions about the instrument, musical solutions, style, and expression always belong to the singer.
Founding of Joensuu Voice Studio
Joensuu Voice Studio was born from a desire to combine a responsible way of working, creative freedom, and a genuine passion for vocal teaching.
The feedback I kept hearing from many directions about vocal teaching in the Joensuu region told the same story: the level is inconsistent, and the approaches are often one-sided and pedagogically outdated. I felt that the city needed an alternative – a place where teaching is based on today’s knowledge, not on old patterns or models that rely on the teacher’s personal opinions.
I have worked as a vocal coach, as a coordinator in the field of music education, and in various event and artist productions around Finland. In these different roles I have met singers and colleagues both in teaching situations and on concert tours and festivals – I have seen and experienced what everyday life is like for a professional musician “in the field”. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how significant the teacher’s attitudes, values, and interaction are for the learning atmosphere.
In my work, quality, continuous development, and helping others have always been important to me. I longed for the freedom to carry out teaching in my own way – flexibly, wholeheartedly, and student-centred. I believe that Joensuu needs a place where high-quality vocal teaching is genuinely accessible to everyone – and where students are not placed in an unequal position based on “talent” or entrance exams.
In the spring of 2025, I took part in Business Joensuu’s business coaching programme, which led to the creation of Joensuu Voice Studio – a place where everyone has the opportunity to explore and develop their own voice in a safe and encouraging atmosphere, regardless of starting level or background. I belief that every person has a unique voice that deserves to be heard.
Values and Principles
Joensuu Singing Studio is committed to the principles of safer space, to treating students equally, and to following the ethical guidelines of FINATS regarding the principles of a good singing lesson.
Best Practice for Voice Lessons for Teachers and Students - FINATS
Everyone is entitled to sing and make music. Everyone's voice is of equal value.
You are encouraged to authentically and freely express yourself in a voice lesson.
Lessons are a safe space for everyone to challenge themselves and to learn new things.
Every learner is unique and valuable.
Voice lessons must always be learner focussed. Everyone is taught and treated equally.
Everyone can learn, develop and advance their singing skills.
Pedagogical choices in voice lessons must support the learner's well-being.
The teacher, too, has the right to express their personality.
The teacher acknowledges their position of power and actively supports and encourages the student.
- Students are encouraged to develop their agency as part of voice lessons to become more active learners and nurture their creative thinking.
Our voice is a vital and intimate part of us. The singing voice as an instrument must be treated with respect.
Singers are their own instrument. As psycho-physical beings our mind-body connection must be acknowledged.
Teachers agree to speak about their student's voice in a positive manner and with respect for individuality, confidence and self-esteem.
We agree to be respectful and body positive with our students and colleagues. Permission is always required before physical touch.
Voice lessons provide a learning environment for both the teacher and student to give and receive constructive feedback.
