Music Lessons in Champlin, MN

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The methods and approaches I use depend greatly on the student and their needs. The most important thing for me is to find repertoire that addresses the students needs and interests. For classical guitar students, there are a variety of methods that I regularly utilize (Julio Sagreras, The Royal Conservatory Series, Suzuki Guitar Method, Charles Duncan), and often supplement with other pieces/etudes. For other styles, I build lessons around playing music that the student is interested in, and include technical and musical exercises when needed. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

First, I like to hear what the student wants to accomplish with the guitar. If they want to learn to play blues, I will teach them how to play over a 12-bar blues form. If they want to learn the classical style, I will provide them with beginning classical etudes. I work around the student to ensure the best possible learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Each student needs a long-term goal in mind for where they want their voice to be. I like to start out by setting a couple realistic goals for the long-term with my students, then breaking those goals down into manageable steps each associated with one or two pieces. I also want students to know that they are accomplishing their goals, so I have my students tape lessons and listen back later to hear their progress. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I was born into a family of string teachers. My father was a conductor and cellist and also played violin. My mother was a violinist and my brother. So it was only natural this became my course in life. I started on the violin, but soon focused on the cello. I was surrounded by string teaching my whole life. But it was not until I met George Neikrug and learned about D. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

My favorite part about teaching is watching my students progress. Nothing is better than seeing the progress one makes after a given time. Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at their own pace. Setting goals for themselves can work well but there is no need to rush anything. Learning takes time and especially learning an instrument. Words of affirmation when acknowledging a students accomplishment(s) helps students desire to continue to progress and make them eager to keep on learning. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I spent 2 years on the road with a musical theater tour company, performing various woodwinds in the pit orchestras for the musicals Flashdance, Elf, and Shrek, and I also spent 4 weeks on a holiday tour with MN-based pianist Lorie Line and her Pop Chamber Orchestra (playing 6 different woodwinds). I currently freelance in a variety of bands/styles around the Twin Cities, including the Twin Cities Latin Jazz Orchestra, Soul Shack, Machinery Hill, and the Brass Barn Polka Band, as well as in pit orchestras for various major local theaters. Read More