Music Lessons in Forest Grove, OR

Instruments: Drums

I adapt my methods to the needs, goals, and learning styles of each of my students, but for a child student who is just beginning lessons, the teaching process usually goes something like this: First, I get my students to have a basic handle on the names of the drums, counting, and playing a basic 4/4 rock groove. Next, I get them playing along to a simple rock or pop song. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet French Horn Tuba

I have been teaching since high school when I was the only trumpet in our high school band and the younger middle school families wanted to get their child lessons but didn't have the money or be able to get them to a music school to help them, so I would teach them after school. Through my college life I have continued to teach those kids and more and even had one of my kids go off to state jazz. Read More

Instruments: Voice

My teaching style heavily emphasizes repetition; I prefer students to work repeatedly on musical phrases and voice concepts to create consistency and make once difficult feats easy. This assures that the student is able to use lessons learned in future situations, and helps them to realize their ability to accomplish goals and challenge themselves toward maximal progress. Furthermore, successful repetition builds confidence that a student is able to succeed and be proud of what they have accomplished. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

A true mix!! Songwriting came later and currently, I have two CD's of my own with original material on both. I've been teaching all ages from 8-88 since I was 18as a private music teacher and coach, inprivate and public schools and community centers. I created workshops and shows for my student's participation. Whether it's singing, learning piano, orchestral instuments or songwriting, I am delighted to bring my students where they aspire to reach. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

For beginning students in piano, I like to use either the Alfred Reed books or the Piano Adventure method books. It really depends on which the student understands the best! Both offer a variety of explanations on musical elements and topics, while also offering a variety of pieces to play. Once certain topics and musical elements are covered, I like to have the student pick a solo piece from several that I will have ready, which will also reflect the new musical elements that were covered. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

I place equal emphasis on technical practice, theory, creativity, and musicality. Practice assignments for each week are clear and simple, yet challenging. They usually consist of a few exercises to practice everyday as well as a musical task such as a song to learn, a musician to listen to, or creating your own beat or fill. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Fiddle

Kathleen has served as concertmaster and soloist for the Chehalem Symphony Orchestra, and has performed with the Miami Symphony Orchestra, Fort Smith Symphony, Ars Flores Symphony Orchestra, Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, and Reno Chamber Orchestra. She has over twenty years of teaching experience, including Indiana University, Davis & Elkins College, and George Fox University. Kathleen is also a Fulbright Scholar who completed dissertation research on Celtic fiddling in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Read More