Music Lessons in Bala, PA

Instruments: Piano

For beginners who are children, I usually start with the Alfred Series. This series will determine the capabilities of the student early on. I pay attention to the student's progress and once I feel they can move on to solo repertoire appropriate for recitals, I will move them down that path. For adults, I use the adult books from the Alfred Series, but I also use the UK piano grade system. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Ive always found it incredibly rewarding when hard work pays off, and this means something different to everyone. Ive found in my own studies that I can have breakthrough moments merely vocalizing or finally getting that one measure perfect after Ive spent a day working at it over and over. As a vocal captain for fellow professional colleagues, hearing their voices come together in harmony after working diligently on a piece of music has taken me to that place in your soul where you feel like youve awakened. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Keyboard

 I have taught in a variety of musical settings with a wide range of students and abilities. I have taught independently as well as for organizations such as the Youth Orchestra of Central NJ. In 2012 I worked for Camp Encore Coda where I taught trumpet lessons, directed the Symphonic Band, coached jazz combos, and taught music theory/musicianship class.  My experience working as full time music faculty for Camp Encore Coda sparked my graduate research on overnight summer music camp, which has since been presented at three major professional conferences in the music education field at the state, national, and international level.  Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I find teaching only to be effective if the student is intrinsically motivated to learn more: I like to find a groove or pace that the student feels confident and motivated to practice, and I tailor the lessons to address any problem areas without losing their attention. I find short excerpts of lesson material to be the best way to teach. Short and sweet! For example, for a 30-minute class, three 10-minute exercises made up of: a lesson or two from Mel Bay; 1 new chord; and a pop song that combines the two. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

Mary has primarily studied classical trumpet, but also has training in jazz and world music. She currently plays principal trumpet in the Bravura Philharmonic and occasionally performs with the Philharmonic of Southern New Jersey, Orchestra Society of Philadelphia, and the Garden State Philharmonic. Shes also a member of the Philly Bloco and the Bella Vista Brass Quintet. Shes been involved in many performance groups including but not limited to the Vassar Wind Ensemble, Penn Orchestra, Marsyas Ensemble and numerous Purchase Conservatory ensembles including the symphony orchestra, graduate brass quintet, Latin jazz orchestra, klezmer ensemble, and the new music ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Flute Recorder Piccolo

I have been teaching since 2007, and have worked with nearly all levels -- from the ultra beginners who have never held a flute to the advanced flutist who has gone on to place in competitions or won collegiate scholarships. I've had 6-year-old students and 60-year-old students. In addition, I also have given workshops on topics such as stage presence, vibrato, and intonation, and have conducted three different flute choirs. I always try to gear lessons to individual needs; for those who want to enjoy playing, I can provide fun as well as structure to lead improvement -- and for those who wish to be competitive musicians, I can provide the necessary framework to help you reach your goals. Read More