Music Lessons in Bella Villa, MO

Instruments: Guitar

All music can be broken down into three categories: melody, harmony and rhythm. I tend to explore everything we do by observing how the given material utilizes one of these three elements (with rhythm being chief!). I love to instill the ideals that I have learned from my mentors into my own students. All guitar students are taught to think as musicians and not just as guitar players. I often think back on some of Miles Davis's famous words, "If it sounds right, it is right!". Read More

Instruments: Piano

Since we're all different, I try to identify students' goals, interests and abilities as we progress. With few exceptions -- students whose temperament andpersonality dictate completing a book before considering another -- I always choose from a large assortmentof method, performance, classical books from my library. I also have a good collection ofBroadway musicals, jazz books, etc. (My favorite series is the Faber and Faber repertoire.) Read More

Instruments: Trombone Bass Guitar

I want to make sure that my students are enjoying the lessons and are able to take something away from as many lessons as possible. Keeping their interest is important, therefore I make sure to ask questions to clarify what we would be working on. I also make sure to get their feedback often to ensure that retention and appeal is not affected negatively from lesson to lesson. When working with new students, it may take a couple sessions to fully grasp where the progression can start in a way that lines up with the efforts of the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Keyboard

I am very, very laid back as a teacher and as a person. I know that everyone learns at their own pace, and not everyone can give themselves an hour a day to practice. It's really about finding out every student's individual needs and style. I am not strict whatsoever, but I do expect my students to make progress every week. Again, I am not a classical pianist whatsoever, so I'm not the type of teacher to stand over you and hit your hand with a ruler every time you hit a "wrong" note. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I love teaching piano and helping people of all ages to enjoy music! I have a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Composition from Webster University, 2003, and a Masters in Music History and Literature from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, 2005. I offer flexible scheduling and I teach both out of my home at at students' homes.  I have a gentle teaching style, a wacky sense of humor and work well with kids and adults at all stages of development. I would be happy to tailor the lesson plan according to your personal plans and repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I use Piano Adventures as the basic course guide. I have found it the most productive and enjoyable for my students. I use a minimum of the Lesson and Theory book for my younger students with either the basic course or Accelerated course depending on their age and maturity. Adults begin with the All In one adult book. I add the other books that accompany each level based on the particular students needs and interests. Read More