Music Lessons in Efland, NC

Instruments: Piano

For beginner students, I start with the basics and like to teach from the Hal Leonard fundamentals books, but it also depends on the type of student. Some are more visual learners whereas others might be more auditory inclined. I modify my teaching style to accommodate the student. Understandably, theory can get mundane, but I try to make learning fun and applicable so a lot of what I teach directly involves playing on the keys instead of writing things in books. Read More

Instruments: Drums

As a foundation, I start my beginner-level students with basic the basic understanding of rhythm patterns, dynamic control, and basic limb independence. I use Benny Greb's "The Language of Drumming" as it has proven to be a fun and effective learning tool for well over a decade. From there it's really dependent on the student and their learning style/pace. I try to never create a particular "method" that doesn't allow for the student's uniqueness to be taken into consideration. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

As stated previously, one of my greatest joys is seeing a student grow and thrive with a musical experience. I understand that not every one of my students will want to pursue music in their life, but music can bolster character, discipline, and creativity-- no matter their age. My methods include basic goal setting, encouraging and providing performance opportunity (no matter how small), and I also let the student's interests lead the way. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Latin Percussion

Over the years I have larned invaluable lessons about drum kit instruction. Teaching many different students with many different personalities, lesson needs, practice habits, and so on has led me to develop a flexability in my teaching that allows the individual student to get the most from each lesson. I encourage my students to push their musical boundaries and reach beyond what they belive they are capable of. I have found that at the end of the sometimes frustrating road to achievement lies the feeling of success that propels learning. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Numerous violin teachers make one of two mistakes. Many give their students too little information, leaving the student to figure out the finer technical details on their own, while others feed the student too much information without breaking it down for them. In both cases the student progresses at a slower pace and is likely to become frustrated. My approach is much more step-by-step oriented, allowing the student to fully grasp a concept over the course of one lesson as opposed to several lessons, which results in significantly greater progress over time. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Harmonica Recorder Keyboard

My choices in books and other resources for the student are based primarily on the students' individual goals, needs, and interests. Generally, I approach the subject matter with firm but relaxed expectations, giving the students freedom but also requiring them to pursue a specified goal. This may include allowing the student to take a break from a challenging piece if necessary, to let their mind calm down and refocus while they practice a different piece with different requirements. Read More