Interview with Voyage LA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christine Sofiane Katzenmaier.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The making of my business was a serendipitous journey.

I grew up on a farm in a tiny village called Litzelbach, Germany. Playing out in the field, riding my bicycle to school or being on the tractor was part of daily life, which I enjoyed. At the same time, I had this dream of living in a foreign country, in a big city.

Fast forward to adulthood, I find myself in the metropolis of Los Angeles, which I’m fortunate to call my home now. Music was a big part growing up. I played the accordion and piano but soon realized that my passion is singing, so I took up singing lessons, which I enjoyed for many years to come.

When I moved to Los Angeles at the age of 21, I pursued singing professionally and became a performing artist and recitalist. It also gave me great pleasure to teach what I learned so I started giving singing lessons. It was then when the seed for my business was planted.

As a teacher, I wanted to get a better understanding of why some voices get hoarse, why do some people have limited ranges. I had a good understanding of the musicality of the voice but was curious about the science of it. At that time I didn’t even know that the field of speech pathology existed, until one day a friend of mine introduced me to a speech pathologist. She told me what her job entailed and “Bingo!” I thought.

The next thing you know, I was back in school to get a Masters degree in speech pathology with an emphasis in voice. I knew before I even went back to school that I wanted to have my own business. So, five years ago I became a licensed speech pathologist and I’m very excited to say that two years ago I opened my own practice.

I absolutely love what I do, and I’m grateful how my journey unfolded and got me to where I am today. I love having my own business, and it gives me great joy taking care of people and help them get better.

Comment/Testimonial from Article:

“Great article.

Christine helped me realize I am not a total dud at carrying a tune, she taught me to recognize and carry 9 notes in only one half hour session. A miracle for me who had always been told I was tone deaf and couldn’t sing even though I loved to sing along I was always embarrassed to. She has also given me advice on how to control my gag reflex so that going to the dentist is not as much torture as it has been in the past, something I did not know could be done.

She is an extremely caring, patient and kind teacher whom I highly recommend.”

— TC