Music Lessons in Collings Lakes, PA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I am a devoted music teacher and passionate performer, who likes to inspire my students to love making music. I perform with orchestras and chamber groups all over the Pennsylvania/Ohio area including the West Virginia Symphony orchestra. Additionally, I have an active chamber group, Kassia Ensemble, a mixed instrumentation group dedicated to furthering women's leadership in the arts. I graduated from Carnegie Mellon University in 2006 having studied with Thomas Thompson of the Pittsburgh Symphony.  Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer

As mentioned my teaching methods are as follows. Beginners in Piano - Scales, proper fingering positions and usage, posture and accurate knowledge of reading music. Beginners in Drums - Proper usage of drumsticks, demonstrate the two postions of holding the drumstick, knowledge of basic rhythm patterns, proper height and angle of drum or practice pad, and most importantly, the study of the 26 standard drum rudiments for proper playing developiment. Vocal Techniques: Proper breathing support, demonstrating the difference between using the breath and using the throat when singing, encourage student to record their lessons for accurate practice and knowledge of hearing themselves sing, (approved by student's preference). Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I have been playing guitar since age 10 to the present (age 56). Styles primarily include:rock, blues, jazz, funk and r & b. Studied music with various teachers at various levels during the first 15 of those years. Have extensive experience in live performance in the concert and club venues in Pittsburgh,Pa., and Ft Lauderdale/Miami, Fl regions. Also, have taught private lessons on and off during these years when schedule allowed. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

I listen the music which the student has been practicing. Then, I guide him/her to make corrections and enhancements.  I use positive reinforcement to strengthen those parts of the performance, and suggest and demonstrate correct concepts.  Then, after hearing the piece again, decide whether review the assignment or move on.  Playing duets with the student is often part of the process. Doing that helps them feel the true meaning of the music; and also helps make up for a pianist's ordinarily lack of group playing because he usually practices alone. 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

Instruments: Piano

My teaching style is flexible and tailored to fit each student's unique abilities to help them achieve their fullest potential. By creating a positive and supportive learning environment, students are able to freely express themselves artistically, and learn to face challenges in order to acheive their goals. Lessons are custom made to go at the student's pace, and pieces are chosen based on the particular student's personality and interests. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in studio recitals several times a year, where they are able to socialize with other pianists and show off their new skills. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet

My main repertoire for teaching comes from William's Levitt's "A Modern Method for Guitar". It comes with Three Volumes, and from beginner to intermediate anywhere in the book is a great place to start! From basic music reading to learning different positions, I believe that these books provide a cornerstone for even the more advanced players to refresh on in the beginning! I also strongly encourage students to bring in whatever songs or pieces they are passionate about and allow myself to build a curriculum based on their tastes and musical preferences. Read More