Piano Lessons Johnson County, KS

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Viola

For high school-aged students interested in the classical method or those wishing to enter into solo/ensemble festival, I typically start with folk songs and the essential Italian Art Songs. For high school-aged students interested in musical theater and/or pop music, we try to find common ground on their musical interests and find pieces based on that. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Music

I believe that an understanding of music theory and learning to read music is the foundation of success for both my piano and voice students which is why I typically require my voice students to be taking piano simultaneously with voice. For beginning piano students, I will typically begin with the James Bastien Primer/Level 1 Series with the focus split equally between theory and technique. I require students to fill out a practice log monthly to ensure that they are maintaining the knowledge and skills they learn in lessons and so that parents can be involved in their progress. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am originally from Los Angeles, California and after completing my bachelors in San Fransico I moved to Wichita to earn two  master's degrees from WSU. I am a composer and pianist who has had their music played by many musiciains ranging from student to professional. I have also played piano with the Wichita State University Wind Ensemble.  I am extremely passionate about music and I think it is important for people of all ages to learn how to play music and appreciate the small details that bring music to life. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Bass Guitar

When I really take a deep look at what is happening when I teach, I realize that in the end the student is teaching him/herself. I'm merely responding to a musical moment -- with a set of ears that I trust, and that happen to be attached to my body -- in a way that makes sense to the vast musical experience I have. "How can this be more beautiful?" "How can this be more secure?" "How can I say a thing to the student that clicks in her/his mind, such that they figure out for themselves how to make this more beautiful/secure/free/awesome/spine-tingling. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Clarinet, Oboe, English Horn

For piano students, I like to use the Alfred method books with supplemented music that peeks their interest. I like these books because they have several series depending on the age of the student and their interests such as music theory and broadway hits.-For woodwind students, I like to work for a few weeks out of their band books so I can assess their strengths and weaknesses. From there I will assign the appropriate method book; typically from the Rubank series. Read More