Flute Lessons in Erie, CO

Instruments: Flute

At the start of the lesson, I will emphasize tone and air control which I've found makes a huge difference as a warm up. The primary books I will work out of are Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. As students progress and I feel that they have a handle on the basics, I will slowly start to incorporate other repertoire that will be exciting to play and perform. Also, it's never too early to start teaching scales and having students memorize them which will greatly help and improve their technical ability. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Recorder

Standing on stage with great musicians is the most effective way to learn music. That’s because music is an aural tradition, meaning music is taught by ear, often thru singing. Just like language. How did you learn to speak English? Not by reading books, but by jamming with words and speaking with masters of the language. Jamming (with notes or words) is the act of exchanging ideas with another person, a conversation. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

For beginning flutists, I typically start with the Rubank Elementary Method so that they can have a basic grasp of the fundamentals. Beyond that, I introduce books according to their musical goals and needs. Some of the books my students have studied out of are the Rubank Intermediate/Advanced books and the Melodious and Progressive Studies edited by Cavally. In addition, I have each student regularly work on solo literature so that they can put their hard work on fundamentals into practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Bass Guitar

My teaching style is fairly easy going. I don't force unrealistic expectations on students because everyone is learning music for a different reason. I like to figure out what their reason is and progress accordingly. If it's a young student looking to continue music throughout their school career, I will make sure they learn how to read sufficiently and I will make sure they know how to play with peers by performing with the student as an accompanist. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I am a southern California retired music teacher. I graduated with a double major in music from South Dakota State University. I taught instrumental music in public and private schools for the last 36 years. I have also owned and operated my own piano studio. I am married and have three boys. I'm active in church music and I also frequently accompany music students for recitals and rehearsals including school musicals. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

For students beginning in an elementary band program, I like to use the same book (such as Essential Elements) that they are using in school. With students learning outside of a band class, or if it won't interfere with what they've already learned, I start with just the headjoint of the flute, making sure the student is comfortable producing clear sound before adding the body of the flute. Because the flute is not like the other woodwind instruments in that you do not blow directly into it, it can be challenging for students to learn how to form an embouchure. Read More