Music Lessons in Black Diamond, WA

Instruments: Guitar Voice Trumpet Harmonica Ukulele Recorder Acoustic Guitar

When working with younger children, I use the Children's progressive method for guitar and for the older students I use the Hal Leonard guitar method books 1, 2 and 3. As my students progress, I supplement the lesson with songs that my students enjoy and want to learn. I also focus on ear training to help students musically hear what they are playing. Whether it's voice, guitar, ukulele, trumpet or recorder, hearing the music inside and being able to internalize the music is very important to becoming a well rounded musician. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I have been teaching for the past ten years. During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to take music pedagogy classes, which have provided the foundation for my current teaching style. I have worked with all ages of students. My goal as an educator is to provide the students with the tools and resources to accomplish their goals, all while demonstrating the joy and inspiration music can bring. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Drums Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

I began the study of trumpet in 1965 under the instruction of Les Beigle, noted Seattle trumpeter. In 1969, I graduated from Snohomish (WA) High School, where he played solo trumpet in the high school band under the direction of Edward Peterson. I received his Bachelor of Music degree with honors from Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle in 1980. Instructors included Gary Peacock, Jim Knapp, Butch Nordal, Art Lande, and Julian Priester. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

I work with each student on a case to case basis, each student has different needs and approaches, all of which I try and accommodate. I encourage my students to practice at least an hour a day, this can be done in ten minute intervals or whatever amount of time the student can maintain focus. I would also love to hear about what my student is interested in and what I can do to help them become a more well rounded musician. Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin

For all beginner students, I begin with the Essential Elements books. Once fingering and bowing have been introduced, I begin incorporating level-appropriate scales. These etudes and scales are vital for learning the technique necessary for more advanced pieces. Once the student has completed the first Essential Elements book, we then select a piece for them to play, and keep this as our main focus while continuing to work on scales and etudes. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Drums Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have a very laidback, low-pressure approach - if you didn't practice, it's not the end of the world! I think back to my own days of taking lessons and remember how much more I improved in this type of environment, and how much more I loved the process. The difference between these approaches can be night and day, both in results and morale out of the student (which, again, I know from experience as a teacher, but also from my experience as a student). Read More

Instruments: Voice

In 35 years of teaching, I've learned that everyone is different, and that is how it should be! The goals of teaching are the same for each student, but the process of achieving the goals is usually tailor made for each person. I love music, and it is always thrilling for me to hear progress as the weeks go by. I enjoy teaching because I feel I am working with the students to bring something good into their lives. Read More