Music Lessons in Como, MN

Instruments: Violin

My first priority is creating a safe and fun environment where students can ask questions, and set goals that are realistic to their needs. We work together to find imagery and methods of practice that work for each individual student, and make weekly notes in a "lesson plan" notebook. By helping students identify and set their own goals and helping them identify their own understanding of the practice methods, I am encouraging critical thinking and practice discipline, which I find more efficient long-term than enforcing my own home-practice techniques and goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Synthesizer Euphonium French Horn Tuba Oboe Keyboard

Public School Music teacher 33+ years ( now retired) Taught Piano for over 40 years Director of two community bands including current Crosstown Community Band church keyboardist, accompanist and choir director Working musician in several bands My teaching goes back to before my college days, teaching at a music store. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress, and gain a passion for music. Read More

Instruments: Voice Trumpet

For beginner trumpeters, I typically start with Hal Leonards Essential Elements and then slowly transition into solo repertoire that suits their skill set as they make it into the intermediate level. As advanced players, we will focus on refining skills with drill books as well as work on standards in solo repertoire. For my vocal students, we will always work on range and flexibility exercises as well as vocal repertoire from multiple genres that suit the skill level of the singer. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I start usually with Piano Adventures by Nancy and Randall Faber including Technique and Artistry Book, Theory book and Lesson Book . Additional solo repertoire might include Faber books on Jazz and Blues or Musical Theatre or Classics for children. Adults may start with Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course. I tend to custom the lesson plans related to the students interests too . I try to find out what the student is interested in and guide my instruction to keep the lessons uplifting and inspiring no matter what the ability level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Over the years I have done everything from playing in the local "Battle of The Bands", opening for rocker Marshall Crenshaw with my band "Caf Society" and playing with jazz great Vincent York at The Montreux Detroit Jazz Festival. I have been teaching for over 20 years and really enjoy teaching and helping others, whether they want to play for their own enjoyment. Read More

Instruments: Flute Recorder Piccolo Music

I do not have one style of teaching that I prefer to use with my students. I strive to make each lesson plan based on the student's individual needs, desires, and goals for their lesson time. I believe that this makes the material more attainable and more engaging. As I get to know my student's learning styles, I can adjust my plans to meet there different needs. I am able to make a comfortable environment for my students that make lessons fun, because music is fun! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Synthesizer Music Keyboard

I teach with a very casual approach. It's not a science or math class. ( I guess it actually is in all regards ). Different student have different needs. I believe in finding out a students wants. I had a younger student who wanted to Zeppelin on the Alto. "Okay" So I showed the student exactly what to do. He had no knowledge of music but I knew that if he enjoyed it, he'd keep playing and playing. Read More