Alum

Craig Simonetti

Position
Instructor
Affiliated Departments

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Craig Simonetti is an accomplished singer, beatboxer, and educator specializing in pop and musical theater. Combining his beatboxing skills with his vocal flexibility cultivated over years of training, Simonetti's music represents a fusion of styles that pushes the boundaries of vocal performance.

As a member of the internationally ranked beatbox duo Forest Fire, Simonetti has earned national and international titles, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the beatboxing community. He also performs with the touring pop group Boy Band Evolution on cruise ships. In addition, Simonetti has directed and performed with various a cappella groups, sharing his expertise in vocal music and beatboxing with audiences and students worldwide.

His performances have taken him around the globe, including Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Canada, and across the U.S., where his talent continues to captivate diverse audiences.

Career Highlights
  • Forest Fire (cofounder)
  • Backtrack Vocals (former music director)
    - Mega Mall 2024 in Kazakhstan
    - Bridgefest 2022 in Vietnam
    - 2020-2024 Production/mix of all recorded material
Awards
  • 2024 Quarterfinalist, American Traditions Vocal Competition
  • 2024 All From the Mouth Champion, Great North Beatbox Battle
  • 2019 Tag Team Vice Champion, American Beatbox Championship
  • 2019 Tag Team Vice Champion, Great North Battle
  • 2018 Tag Team Champion, East Coast Battle
Education
  • School Name
    The Boston Conservatory
    State or Province
    Massachusetts
    Degree
    Master of Music (MM)
    Field of Study
    Vocal Pedagogy
    Date Degree Received
  • School Name
    University of Massachusetts Amherst
    State or Province
    Massachusetts
    Degree
    Bachelor of Music (BM)
    Field of Study
    Voice Performance
    Date Degree Received
In Their Own Words

"The modern singer wears many hats. I want my students to understand differences in vowel shape, what it means to be connected to their breath and body, style and genre requirements, and all of the different sounds their voices can make. Learning to sing was such a nebulous concept before I learned that singing is just making sounds in a musical manner. I want my students to develop their flexibility and skill set so that they can confidently approach challenges in their repertoire in a variety of styles."

Flexibility and conditioning have become paramount in my career as a tenor and beatboxer. By increasing range and versatility as well as reinforcing healthy vocal habits, I have been able to add sounds to my repertoire and find my place in a variety of genres and styles. I know what it takes to juggle the many sounds required of the modern vocalist and how to teach my students to become more marketable musicians."