Music Lessons in Bala, PA

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

For absolute beginners I make sure that they know the guitar strings and make sure they get to know the fretboard by learning the pentatonic scales and basic chord shapes. First we will learn what an octave is and where they are on the fretboard. After we learn octaves we learn the scales and the notes on the high and low E string. After that we start with our sharps and flats. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Lute Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I don't think there is any one method book or instructional DVD that will give you everything you need. Even if an educational resource is extremely well done, it will still need to be tailored and digested in a certain way for each student. I generally use Mel Bay's Guitar 1 - expanded edition. While working with this book, there are additional materials such as exercises, concepts, and musical ideas often inserted at key moments. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

My beginning students learn the fundamentals of their instrument. I want every student to get a well rounded education from me. Woodwinds students study from Essential Elements. Young piano students use the Faber collection and older students use the Bastien series for the Older Beginner. Practical Theory from Sandy Feldstein is used for instrumental students. Spike and Party Cat piano theory books is used for younger piano students. I encourage students to learn solo pieces and memorize scales so they can audition for various festivals. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I am very flexible in my approach.  I understand that there are many way to achieve the desired result.  I am always available to answer questions and welcome them.  I am not doctrinaire in my approach.  Each student is unique in their strengths and areas which need more attention and I strive to meet these needs on the individual level. I enjoy working with enthusiastic students, regardless of level. I find listening to recordings and live performances to be an invaluable part of the learning process and try to include this whenever possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

It can be any style they want, as long as its special to them. After I get a good sense of their instrument, I believe vocalizing with the student builds a an immediate rapport and instantly allows us to see where the voice naturally sits and where we can allow for healthy extensions. After I feel my students have progressed with fundamentals, I introduce solo material on a need basis. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone

I'm a very passionate Musician and believe in the use of music as a tool for healing spiritually and helping others as music provides a source of discipline, requires great concentration and is soothing to the mind. Music is an outlet for people when struggling or having hardships as well as a source for developing good concentration skills and necessary disciplinary habits. I have a Master's in Music Therapy and currently work as a Music Therapist in a nursing facility. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Im a very engaging and passionate teacher who comes from a long line of musicians and educators. In 2008 I received my undergraduate degree in music with a concentration in musical theater. I then took a year to work in the industry at several regional musical theater and opera houses domestically and internationally. I then went to Miami University for my graduate studies in classical voice. I have diverse performance career ranging in everything from professional one man cabaret shows to leading roles in opera. Read More