Music Lessons in Collings Lakes, PA

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Music

For beginning piano students, Arias typically starts with John Thompson's piano methods books one through four with a focus on musical expression, literacy, and building a foundation of good technique. For beginning trumpet students, Arias typically uses Hal Leonards, Essential Elements Method. Depending on the student's progression and pedagogical needs, Arias next typically moves to an individually prescribed combination of Schlossberg, Clark, and Arban excersises combined with solo literature and/or etudes. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I love to teach! I believe my Grandmother's pedagogical influence has had deep impact on my musical journey. The art of teaching is a challenge which I enjoy very much. I began to teach privately as a teenager and have continued to do so both as a private instructor and as a faculty member of several music schools. I also had the privilege of directing a string chamber orchestra! I like to provide the opportunity for students to perform both as solo players and in ensemble groups via private recitals and/or competitions. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I prefer to teach using the Suzuki books, since I believe it is a well rounded learning of fun music while teaching technique and musical abilities. I expect my students to practice at least 6 times a week. My students are encouraged to practice by ear, to encourage the love for music. If the student is more advanced, they will begin working on Carl Flesch Scales and Wolfhart etudes. I will also hand out music based on the student passion be it movie theme songs, Christian, or Celtic. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

Chinese pianist, Xuelai W., recently relocated to Pittsburgh from Phoenix. She is a sought-after collaborative pianist, chamber musician, vocal coach, and church musician. Her passion and experience for both instrumental and vocal collaboration have led her to share the stage with renown artists and young talented musicians. Before she moved to Pittsburgh, she was the pianist for Arizona Opera, where she has given close to 200 performances and presentations with the outreach program, introducing opera to the younger generation and communities in the Greater Phoenix area. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

There is not one specific method that I use to teach; I use combinations of various methods which I have learned over the years, and I tailor the lessons to best fit each individual student's level and what they are interested in musically. While I recommend learning to read music, I will not force anyone to do it if they don't want to. And just remember, even Jimi Hendrix couldn't read music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

Teachers have a responsibility to serve their students in the best way possible. I want to teach my students under the heading of creativity, kindness, and knowledge. I like to involve students in setting their own individual goals. I acknowledge the individual goals and interests of students through choosing repertoire that is meaningful and engaging to them. During lessons, I play or sing examples and duets with students frequently in order to act as a model for certain concepts. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Electric Guitar

I am very serious about making music easy and fun to learn. I have different techniques to ensure learning. I’m a good listener and I love to learn also. I’m familiar with all different types of guitars and I would love to build my own instrument one day. I studied classical music in high school under a former professional conductor who taught me many things about the fundamentals of music. Read More