Music Lessons in Ford City, PA

Instruments: Piano Organ

I've taught public school elementary band for 30 years, have been a church organist for 70 years, and taught piano and organ for 57 years. I accompanied church and school choirs and orchestra through high school and on into college and then directed such groups; so I know what skills are needed to perform and what it feels like to be put in such a position. Since I've been teaching so long, I can anticipate where in the assignment, the student is likely to be challenged. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have been teaching violin and viola for the last 10 years. My students have ranged from 4 thru 25 years of age. I love teaching the violin and viola to students who desire to learn the instruments regardless of their goals for the instrument. I strive to keep my students motivated, and if the student is bored with what is being taught I find something to inspire them. I, however, do not teach students that are unwilling practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

I am a young but very experienced instructor and vocalist. I am currently completing my vocal performance degree at Duquesne University. When not teaching, I perform with the Mt. Lebanon United Lutheran Chancel Choir, and I cantor Mass at St. Benedict the Abbot in Peters Township and St. Louise de Marillac in Bethel Park. I have been teaching privately for three years, and have worked with David's Music House and Accelerando Music Conservatory. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Once upon a time, one of my co-workers asked me to show her how to play some songs on the guitar. I can't remember exactly what those songs were, but I think it was Led Zeppelin, or something like that. Having never taught a lesson in my life up until that point, I reluctantly agreed, and later that week, she arrived at my front door with guitar in hand. As the lesson went on, I had a couple of "Aha" moments! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music Keyboard

As I have taught many students on many different instruments, my focus has been on providing students with a firm foundation, including proper posture, breathing, embouchure, technique, and pitch/rhythm literacy. I have found great success in using the Essential Elements method books, and eventually move on to intermediate and advanced methods, focusing on etudes, scale studies, and solo repertoire. Beyond a traditionally classical approach, I believe strongly in listening to my students to realize what they desire to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano

The two methods I typically use for young beginners are "The Music Tree" by Franicis Clark, and "Piano Adventures" by Faber and Faber. As the child progresses, I add supplemental materials and more advanced performance pieces that may be used for recitals. For adults, there are a variety of good methods that I draw from, taking their genre and style preferences in mind. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

In 2019, I received the Semper Fidelis award from the Marine Corps in recognition of my diligence, dedication and musical excellence as a performing high school bandsman and soloist. I continued my clarinet studies at the University of Pittsburgh, where I recently graduated with a major in Music Performance alongside my additional major in Computational Biology. I have served as principal clarinetist of the University of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra since my freshman year of college, and have played in several chamber groups. Read More