Music Lessons in Grain Valley, MO

Instruments: Piano Voice

For piano students just starting out, I like Alfred’s basic piano library, and the Bastien piano basics. There are several other piano courses I’m excited to try as well. For both piano and voice students, I like to include a book of tunes with which the student is familiar: movie tunes, Disney songs, etc. For older students, I will focus a little more on the different time periods of music and help them to gain an appreciation for each. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

I have been teaching since I was a senior in high school. Over the last 10 years I have come to realize that all students learn differently and all will encounter problems in different ways. Some students will overcome these challenges in a few days, others it may take a few months. I know because I was one of those students where it took a few months. I always tell my students that I will do everything I can to help them as long as I can tell they are practicing (and I will be able to tell). Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Synthesizer Music Keyboard

For intermediate students, I may still use a series of method books, but with most students I prefer to emphasize learning through repertoire. I have specific technique and theory books I use with students to provide structure to the beginning of lessons and practice sessions, but I find that most expressive and technical lessons are taught through music itself. By talking through healthy practice habits and jointly constructing daily or weekly practice plans with my students, I encourage them to take responsibility for how they use their time at the piano, and how to get things learned healthily and efficiently. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium

My teaching experience has been with trumpet, trombone and euphonium players as a private instructor.  Before joining the navy music program I taught band at a private school in New Jersey called the Netherlands Reformed Christian School.  Also taught at a store "Music Den" in Roxbury Twp., NJ from 1998 to 2002 for four years. While in the navy as a musician I taught private lessons to students interested in playing a brass instrument. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I am currently a student at Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City, MO. I have been playing music for over ten years and am mostly self-taught, however I have a lot of knowledge of music theory and have played professionally for a number of years. I enjoy teaching and passing on the joy of learning to others and I believe music is a necessary ingredient in our lives, no matter what age or musical preference. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Oboe English Horn

My teaching experience goes back to when I taught piano lessons in high school. Since then I have continued to teach private lessons throughout college. I now teach music at Kansas City Public Schools. One of the key components to my teaching is helping my students find a way to enjoy making music. I like to provide fun supplemental activities as well as their regular lesson books. I also enjoy finding my students as many performance opportunities as possible so they can show off their hard work! Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I enjoy teaching because I am sharing my love for music with my students. The most rewarding part of teaching is watching students grow personally as they learn to play and instrument and improve their musical and technical skills. I have taught every age, from 4 year old beginners to adult students. I've worked with college music majors who are looking for an extra bit of help, and high school students preparing for all-state and all-district auditions. Read More