Music Lessons in East Vandergrift, PA

Instruments: Clarinet

What makes a good clarinetist is not just someone with excellent technique and breath control. I strive to teach my clients to attain not just those skills, but most importantly to use their playing to connect with the audience, tell a story, and change lives. My lesson plan ensures that my clients build a strong foundation in their clarinet embouchure, tone, technical skills, and musicality. I love to encourage my students and to push them to become successful musicians. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Ukulele Euphonium French Horn Music

I believe in teaching time management from the start. I will start with a small weekly practice goal, and as the students progress, that goal will increase. Another part of time management is not over- assigning music to practice. At first, I expect the student to practice 2-3 small songs. As they become more confident and comfortable, I will assign 3-4 songs, and so on. Every week should have goals that are achievable and make the student feel accomplished. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I began teaching lessons in college when I was in a piano pedagogy class. At that time, I also began teaching private band and string instruments. I had a student teaching experience where I was able to teach band instruments with students in grades 5-8. After that experience I accepted a job in North Carolina as an orchestra director. I also taught choir students, and I taught private piano and string students on the side. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My teaching style emphasizes areas that the student enjoys playing, as well as method books and technique exercises that will advance their playing. Developing and solidifying core concepts in lessons is more important to me than speeding through exercises in a book, and I always stress the importance of doing things right before moving on. I encourage my students to practice at their own pace, however I always stress that picking up the instrument for even just ten minutes a day for a week is better than one day for an hour. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I am generally laid back and understanding of a student's wishes and goals when learning a new instrument. Most folks are not trying to become world-class players on the bagpipe and I recognize that. The more laid back my student is, the more laid back I am. If a student is very serious, then I will match that and be very serious as an instructor. I think it's important to understand why a person is learning, and what they wish to get out of it. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Teaching style: having the student focus on simplicity...focus on practice, practice, practice....focus on enjoying the lesson, not dreading it. I will assess the students' needs simply by having a conversation first. Then ask some basic questions about what music style is appealing to them. Most important is that whatever the student's level is, just feel comfortable, relaxed and look forward to this wonderful journey that is called "Playing the Guitar"!    Keep in mind, my schedule is flexible. 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