Karen Lyu
Karen Lyu, affectionately known as “Karey Poppins,” is a holistic voice coach, award-winning jazz vocalist, speaker, and creative educator devoted to helping people reclaim their voices—and their confidence. With a BSS in Jazz Studies and Vocal Performance from Cornell College, Karen has spent almost three decades amplifying unheard voices and guiding individuals to communicate with clarity, courage, and heart. A lifelong artist and educator, Karen has performed in more than 40 musical styles, collaborated with acclaimed musicians, and supported over 1,000 students worldwide through voice coaching, workshops, and mentorship. Her award-winning, play-based approach blends deep listening, somatic awareness, and creativity, creating transformational experiences that are both empowering and joyful. Karen is the author of the highly-praised book Singing in Tune: Solutions for 25 Pitch Problems, a practical and compassionate guide that reflects her belief that confidence and singing are skills that can be learned. Beyond the voice studio, she designs interactive learning experiences and games, including New Choice: Improv Your Life!, merging creativity, personal growth, and education in innovative ways. Her work is deeply rooted in service and community. With 29 years of teaching experience—including nonprofit leadership as an executive director, insight as a singing competition judge, facilitation for changemakers, and ESL education in South Korea—Karen has helped individuals from all backgrounds discover their voices and express themselves fully. As both an activist and artist, she is committed to equity, empowerment, and creating spaces where every voice matters. Recognized for her holistic approach, musical excellence, and imaginative leadership, Karen Lyu continues to lift voices, spark confidence, and inspire women to step into their power—onstage, in leadership, and in life.
• Cornell College: BSS Jazz Studies, Vocal Performance
• IMIA Certification
• CCHI Certification
• TNOAC Certification
• LMA Certification
• SMA Certification
• TESOL Certification
• New Science of Singing Certification
• Best Holistic Voice Coach
• $10,000 Arts Patron Gift
• Level 1 Speaker Achievement
• #1 Jazz Artist in South Korea - Reverbnation
• Level 1 Certificate with Distinction - ACTEC
• Emergency Grant - MusiCares/Grammy Foundation
• Songwriter Award - NashvilleMuse
• Leadership Award Plaque - WBSM
• 3rd Place - Polish Idol Singing Competition
• $5,000 Community Collaboration Grant (original musical theater)
• 1st Prize - Jitters Karaoke Contest
• $10,000 WBSM Grant
• Nominated for Best Arts Article - NEMA
• Judge - Hmong Idol USA
• Samsung Sponsorship
• Teaching Artist Program Grant
• Emerging Artists Photography Grant
• ACORN Office Record for Most Funds Raised in One Day
• Barefoot Writer Magazine Contest Winner
• Board Chair/Board Member - West Bank School of Music
• Board Member - Speak Out Sisters!
• Co-Chair VASTA Bizcore
• Musician - Various Organizations
• Volunteer - Various Political Candidates
• Course Facilitator - Alternatives to Violence Project
• Treasurer - North River Toastmasters
What do you attribute your success to?
I'm always learning something new.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Maintain a growth mindset.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple but essential: always nurture your students’ potential and never crush their spirit. Remember that your teaching style has a profound impact—if a student struggles to make progress, it doesn’t mean they lack talent. Patience, encouragement, play, and thoughtful guidance can make all the difference in helping them grow and succeed.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the shift from local to fully online work, which has increased competition significantly. This transition has also required me to learn and adapt to new marketing and sales strategies to stay effective. Additionally, after returning to the U.S., I faced a professional setback, but I’ve worked through it and emerged stronger, with renewed focus and resilience.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are integrity, wholehearted commitment, excellence, persistence, and a sense of play. I strive to approach every task with honesty and dedication, pursue high standards, persevere through challenges, and maintain joy and creativity along the way.