Music Lessons in Ennis, TX

Instruments: Voice

I usually start with breathing exercises and vocalises for all students. I also use the exercise books Concone and Sieber. After the student has grasped the breathing and the coordination of the vocalises we move on to repertoire that is age appropriate. I encourage my students to sing in Italian as this helps them to acquire a proper technique because Italian uses pure vowels. I have studied with some great teachers and feel like I need to pass on those methods to the next generation of musicians. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium Tuba

Along with fundamentals, I always start incorporating music theory, to help them better understand how music is structured and to further train their ear. Of course, depending on the level will depend how far we get into music theory. Even though they might be taking trombone lessons, I don't want to necessarily train them to be a trombone player, but rather a musician. After which, will come repertoire, including solos, method books, jazz charts and orchestral excerpts. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My students say I am their "most fun teacher," which is what I like to hear! Weekly music lessons shouldn't be a fearful experience; they should be something to enjoy and look forward to. The fact is learning to play the piano is not a 30-minutes-a-week or even a 1-hour-a-week experience. Learning to play the piano is a daily habit that must be cultivated. To that end,I keep my expectations for my students clear and attainable so that they know what to do in order to be successful. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

In addition to performance opportunities, I inspire my students to cultivate their creativity by composing their own songs. This creative outlet not only enhances their musical skills but also fosters a deeper connection to their artistic voices. I guide them through the songwriting process, offering feedback and support to nurture their growth as both singers and songwriters. Throughout my teaching career, I have witnessed the transformative power of music in my students' lives. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trombone Drums Orchestral Percussion Djembe

For students who are young with no musical background I start with the Essential Elements series. At the next stage, I challenge the student based on their interests. I tend to push students to learn jazz, as its the basis for all drum set playing, but know that most kids are more interested in other more modern styles and accommodate them accordingly. I have a number of books that I can draw from, including Jim Chapin's jazz book, Syncopation, New Breed, Buddy Rich's book, and many more.. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I have been teaching for over 30 years, and I love working with children. Regular practice is important so that students can see progress and reap the rewards that come with it. I meet the students where they are at, trying to work with their particular style of learning. My lessons are based in classical music, but we learn many different styles of music as they progress. The teaching association I belong to has four festivals a year, which I encourage my students to participate in, where they perform pieces and receive constructive feedback, helping them to grow as musicians and to become comfortable playing for others. Read More

Instruments: Piano

One of the things I love about teaching is watching my students grasp the musical concepts I teach, as well as see how they all relate. Each student progresses at their own pace, some faster, some slower than others. I tweak my teaching style to meet each student's unique abilities, so as to assist them in reaching their potential. Together with teaching my students the basic concepts of music, I also work with them on musical concepts and types of music that they are interested in. Read More