Clarinet Lessons in Happy Valley, OR

Instruments: Clarinet

I have been teaching since the summer after my freshman year of college. I knew that I wanted to gain experience teaching private lessons early in my career, so I contacted middle and high school band programs in the Dallas Metroplex and slowly began building a teaching studio. By the following year, I had a full studio with students of all levels. After finishing my coursework at Southern Methodist University, I completed a semester of student teaching at Berkner High School and Liberty Junior High in Richardson, TX. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I believe that it's best to learn by example, and in music this is often by demonstrating with the instrument. I will always have my instrument out to play along, or demonstrate what I am expecting. I expect my students to practice what is assigned to them so we can both have a productive session with each other, however I do understand that life happens. I try different techniques throughout the lesson to ensure that what I'm teaching is resonating with the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Harmonica Ukulele Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon English Horn Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods vary on the student and subject. Beginning students will typically focus more on technical pieces of music to improve on certain aspects of a few pieces to perform. More advanced students will still practice technical parts of their music, but less time will be spent on it during a lesson. Advanced level students will spend more time on repertoire and performance. The more advanced a student gets, the more I expect them to practice outside of lessons and apply their newly learned technical skills into their music on their own. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I have always enjoyed helping students play better.  My private teaching career began in 1978 and continues to the present.  It is always more fun for the student it they understand why something is important and what the long term benefits are for them.  No question is questioned.  We enjoy exploring the Language of Music and the requirements of their instrument.  Additionally,  I have developed a method for addressing Performance Anxiety that has proven effective in any performance situation. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I encourage my students to be technically proficient, musically literate, and good listeners. Having these core fundamentals down prepares my students to be able to play any style of music they choose. Lessons are always customized to fit the musical preferences of the student.  I use my preferred method books but am able to incorporate the books the student already owns within the lesson plans.  I encourage the use of technology such as smartphones, iPads, and play-a-longs as teaching aids. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For kids I find that having a large quantity of music to learn at each level gives more variety and sense of achievement, so I usually recommend beginning students have multiple books to aid in learning. For example a young piano student will study from lesson, theory, performance, and technique books each week. This yields a well-rounded student who is proud of their achievements and eager to move forward. For adults I recommend a lesson/theory combination book at least to help with reading music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

Additionally, information regarding where these materials can be obtained will be provided, enabling parents to acquire them for future classes. For clarinet, saxophone, Fagot or oboe students reeds should be provided by the parents. I can offer guidance on finding reeds at lower prices and selecting the appropriate sizes and brands for each instrument. It is recommended to have a cleaning kit for each instrument (regardless of the type). This will help in maintaining the instruments in good condition. Read More