Music Lessons in California, PA

Instruments: Cello

While I have a general curriculum, I am very flexible and try to adjust to my every student individually. Generally I like to employ books by Suzuki, as I find them very methodical, as well as easily accessible. I supplement the Suzuki books by Alwin Schroeder's 170 foundation studies, and lots of scales and technical exercises. I encourage active listening and work with a student to build confidence performing. In addition to learning the instrument I advise on the business side of music making, making sure you have the knowledge and tools to plug your skills and talent in real life. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

My diverse musical upbringing included piano, guitar, bass, singing, and recording in any style I could think of. I went on to play bass guitar at a professional level in bar bands and on cruise ships, and piano and organ at a professional level in churches. I've studied the drums voraciously for the past decade, playing rock and jazz with musically adventurous friends and colleagues. I bring the ears of a well-rounded musician to the instrument, and my deep experience as a bassist influence my choices at the drums. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I find that I am at my happiest when I am instructing people in one of my greatest loves, music. In 2018, I graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor of the Arts in Music, my emphasis being the saxophone. I have performed with numerous ensembles and one of the greatest rewards I get from playing is seeing the joy that it brings to others. During my four years at Ohio, I was able to play with the community symphony and it was there that I was able to see what music does for people in bringing them together and creating a strong sense of community, understanding, and joy. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For a beginner vocalist, I will always begin with standard bel canto vocalises. These promote, first and foremost, the health of the voice. They also build flexibility, agility, and suppleness within the vocal cords. As students advance, these vocalises become more and more advanced. The technique built in the vocalises eventually infiltrates a singers' repertoire, and appropriate repertoire choices are extremely important and made thoughtfully. Pianists begin with an introduction through scales and music theory. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

I am a musician and instructor that enjoys performing and teaching different styles of music. Many students come to me with a specific thing that they want to work on. I am able to design a course to help them reach their goal. With beginning students as they learn the basics and progress they begin to develop interest in certain styles. I look forward to helping them grow and discover why they are interested in the drums. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For classical studies, there are some standard saxophone repertoire books I like to go to. For brand new students, I use Essential Elements books, for intermediate students I use Rubank method books, and for advanced students I use the Ferling etude book. For jazz studies, I begin students with Lenny Neihaus' Jazz Conception for Saxophone, which lays a great foundation for jazz and swing playing. After this, I do a lot of ear training and memorization exercises for tunes, and talk about chord-scale theory. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have been teaching violin and viola for the last 10 years. My students have ranged from 4 thru 25 years of age. I love teaching the violin and viola to students who desire to learn the instruments regardless of their goals for the instrument. I strive to keep my students motivated, and if the student is bored with what is being taught I find something to inspire them. I, however, do not teach students that are unwilling practice. Read More