Music Lessons in Butler, PA

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

In all of my teaching, I combine my students' interests with the leading pedagogy practices in string education to develop the foundational skills of the instrument as well as a fondness for it. There are several method books that I use such as Suzuki, Schroeder's Cello Etudes, and Fiddler's Philharmonic, however, I tailor each lesson path to each student based on student interest as well as proper sequencing. I generally start with these method books, especially for cello, for beginning students. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Saxophone

I look forward to watching my students learn and mature in their music. It is important that each student feels comfortable and not rushed in their learning progression. Therefore, I will make sure each student is learning at their own pace and feels comfortable enough to stop me if I am moving too fast. I will work with my students to set realistic goals for the week. Additionally, I seek to find ways to make practice fun and individualized to each students so that they want to practice when they get home. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

Each brand new bagpiping student will have to start with the practice chanter. This small instrument is how we bagpipers learn, rehearse, memorize, and re-learn all music before attempting it and perfecting it on the full bagpipes. Bagpipers have to know what they are doing with their hands so when they add the full instrument, they are almost on "auto-pilot" and can focus on blowing good tone into the bagpipe. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Teaching style: having the student focus on simplicity...focus on practice, practice, practice....focus on enjoying the lesson, not dreading it. I will assess the students' needs simply by having a conversation first. Then ask some basic questions about what music style is appealing to them. Most important is that whatever the student's level is, just feel comfortable, relaxed and look forward to this wonderful journey that is called "Playing the Guitar"!    Keep in mind, my schedule is flexible. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students, I will introduce basic guitar and musical terminology and focus and proper form of playing. Once certain fundamentals have been established I will begin to introduce a repertoire based on the student's interests and skill level. Depending on the age of the student I will start them on Berklee's Guitar Method I if they are old enough. I find it particular useful will adult students to know what types of music they are personally interested in and cater lessons to their interests. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

I approach teaching by making sure that each student is learning at their own pace and always remains passionate about music even when they struggle to achieve a certain technical skill in singing. With my students, I try to build vocal technique and performance skill at a pace that is appropriate for each student and introducing challenging skills only at a gradual pace. By acknowledging technical progress as it happens, the student receives the encouragement to push forward in their studies and maintains a positive attitude towards music. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

I come to teaching with the understanding that every student is different. We will try to get at each problem in a variety of ways, and see what works for you. We will also gear our curriculum towards the student's own interests, keeping in mind that there is plenty of material that is common to everyone's growth. Since lesson time is limited, I won't waste time telling stories or lecturing you about different musical concepts. Read More