Music Lessons in Clayton, IN

Instruments: Piano Guitar

My teaching style is laid back and fun, as well as motivating and challenging. I think it's important for each lesson to be fun because it fosters positive growth and a love for music. It is also important to me that students take their learning seriously. I expect my students to practice on their own time in order to reach their own goals. Without practice and perseverance, it is difficult to become skilled at your instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano

By age eighteen, I won the Music Teacher's National Association's Solo Piano Competition for the State of Florida, First Prize in the Florida State Music Teachers Association's Gold Cup Concerto Competition, and Second Prize in the Harold C. Schwartz Foundation Scholarship Competition. Presently, while pursuing my doctorate at Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music, I have built a substantial presence in the competitive field; the previous seasons have been immensely successful, having earned gold medal and first prize in the 68th Wideman International Piano Concerto Competition, as well as first prize at the National finals of the Music Teachers National Association's Young Artist Competition, sponsored by Steinway and Sons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Organ

For adults, I would continue using these books but at a higher level with supplemental material on the side, which may include solo repertoire appropriate for them and Hanon's Virtuoso Pianist exercises (a few, not all). For voice students, I try to find out what it is they are interested in singing; I am comfortable with all genres but it should be noted that I am classically trained and can work more easily and comfortably for those wanting to sing classical music, musical theater, and church related music.  A student must enjoy what they are working on in order to progress. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Flute Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

My goal is for my students to love music and enjoy the process of learning and growing and reaching their personal goals as a musician. Whether that's just playing for fun or preparing them for a recital or coffee shop gig or professional studio recording experience or preparing their part for the musical group that they participate in; I have helped my students with all these things. I strive to have a positive teaching style by focusing on their strengths and helping them achieve their personal goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

My views on teaching or being an instructor are vast. I evaluate what stage one is at and focus on the easiest ways for a student to understand their instrument and approach the musical side of learning. Every individual is different and their understanding of rhythm, melodies, chord structure, and time signatures can vary even though the fundamental structure of music and theory is relatively the same. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet

Age-friendly materials are my favorite to use. For very young pianists I often buy books with lots of color and large print like Kjos's Piano Party. Kjos and Alfred are two of my favorite publishers, but I am willing to work with materials your family may already own. Flashcards are an important tool for many children to become fluent at naming/reading notes. I also like to have students complete written theory assignments, and, to help students from getting bored, I often "reward" them with single pieces of fun sheet music that can be performed for recitals and competitions. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Classical Guitar

I have spent the past three years teaching group and individual lessons in pop and classical guitar as part of my graduate studies at Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music. This means I have taught college-aged students exclusively, up to this point. However, I am completely open to teaching students of all ages. Most of my students have been complete beginners who have little to no experience making music, so I am absolutely comfortable working with novices. Read More