Clarinet Lessons in Thornton, PA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I first began teaching upon the completion of my undergraduate studies in 2004. At that time the majority of my students were beginners in their first or second year of playing. By 2008 I had completed the first of my two graduate degrees in music. With this accomplishment the students seeking lessons with me generally became older, typically in the junior high and high school ages. It has been my priveldge to help some of these students reach their goals of becoming university and college music majors and scholarship recipients. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Clarinet Bass Guitar Double Bass

In regards to lessons it is my intention to first and fore most understand the student, what they want to learn, and why they want to learn it. -I have a strong understanding of music theory which is something I would like to pass on to my students. -I apply technique for getting comfortable with the instrument, as well as theory to understand the ins and outs of the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning students, I start with Essential Elements, or another comparable method if their band program uses another book. Once the student reaches middle school and has a good concept of fundamentals, we progress to the Himie Voxman Selected Studies and Duets books. For high school and advanced middle school students, I use the Baermann Division III book, the Klose Method, the Rose etudes for clarinet, as well as beginning to introduce appropriate solo repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Synthesizer Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon English Horn Acoustic Guitar

For my beginning piano students, I emphasize the twelve major and minor scales with proper fingering, first one octave and then two octaves. These exercises strengthens fingers and create more familiarity with the keyboard. I use the book, Level 1 The Older Beginner Piano Course by James Bastien and the companion book, Musicianship for the Older Beginner. I have seen results when these books are used in tandem. The student increases in technique and start to master music theory simultaneously. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet Keyboard

I like to incorporate weekly and monthly goals into my lesson plans, and I focus on accomplishments rather than shortcomings. I often offer incentives for younger students to encourage regular practice. I provide constructive feedback after every lesson and encourage questions as I feel reciprocated communication opens opportunities for learning. I want my students to enjoy and look forward to lessons, so I adjust my teaching style based on each unique student's personality, learning style, and ability. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn Music Keyboard

No matter which direction my students go, I always try to make sure they're having fun with the music and being able to play their instrument. Because otherwise, the music won't come out the same way without having that extra feeling put into it. In order for my students to reach further enjoyability, I always try to respect the pace at which each student picks up material and encourage my students to go about their craft with honesty and respect their own pace, knowing that music as a whole isn't a competition and that these students will all eventually reach their goal through patience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Accordion

Music has enriched my life in many ways, connecting me with people in the community and providing a positive outlet for self-expression! I hope to instill that passion in the students that I teach. I strive to provide a safe and fun learning environment for students, but I also stress the importance of practice, dedication, and discipline. I dialogue with students to determine what goals would be realistic for our lessons, and I seek to build trusting and positive relationships as we meet those goals together. Read More