Music Lessons in Cortez, FL

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

Since I am also a composer and arranger, I tend to be partial towards the use of my own "homemade" methods.... taking on the idea of composers like Mozart, Beethoven and Schumann (example would be Album of the Young) and writing simple pieces that reinforce specific technical challenges like double thirds, left hand arpeggios, consecutive octaves, pedalling and so on. Sometimes if I have a student that likes Pink Floyd or Eric Clapton, for instance, I will do my best to come up with a simplified version of a particular song using good ole staff paper. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music Keyboard

My methods definitely vary depending on the level and experience of the student. However, the fundamental exercises and order of warming up is very similar throughout the different levels of experience. It would start with long tones, then we would move on to lip slurs, then scale exercises and after that we would love on to music and etudes. For beginners I would work on embouchure technique and figure out what works best for them, and at the same time is also efficient in improving. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet French Horn Music

I think real-world application is the most important part of any educational curriculum. No matter the subject or the age/experience of the student, I begin with the traditional structures taught by universities and personalize the curriculum based on my students' learning/application goals--i.e. to teach, perform, or compose professionally/as a hobby in different formats/genres. In group teaching situations, I ensure a wide variety of approaches to each subject and encourage students to choose the approach that works the best for them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Drums Keyboard

I graduated from Marshall University in 2006 with a degree in Music Education. A former professional music educator, my desire for freelancing and travel led me on a varied path all over the U.S. and Europe. Finally having settled in St. Pete, I hope to return to an endeavor I love so much - teaching musicians! I've played on cruises, in orchestras and operas, for musicals, as a soloist, and as many jazz, community, marching, symphonic, brass, etc. ensembles as you can imagine! Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

As an avid music instructor of three different instruments, I have a very diverse teaching background that encompasses approximately six years of cumulative musical training to students of all ages. As a patient and understanding teacher, I have worked with students with Asperger's syndrome as well as students with severe ADHD.  In my lessons, I emphasize consistent practice that is paired with consistent positive and encouraging feedback so that my students truly learn to grow not only as musicians, but as individuals. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching experience dates back to college. I began teaching private lessons part time about 12 years ago and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 7 years. Routine and regular practice are a great combination to build muscle memory and an instinctual feel for music as well as a connection and passion to your instrument. Incorporating classical and oriental nuances are a great way to enhance rock music and solos, as well as make lessons & practice melodically fun and progressive. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning students that are children ages 4-10, I typically use Faber Piano Adventures, using Faber Piano Adventures for Older Beginners usually around 11 yo and up. I also provide outside supplemental technique exercises if I feel they are needed. Once they become proficient in reading music I will begin to add solo repertoire that implements the techniques learned up to that point. For intermediate level students I will assess them first lesson to decide on course direction. Read More