Music Lessons in Granite City, IL

Instruments: Piano

From upper elementary on, musicology is added. For a student that plans to keep learning, musicology is the history and the composer's impetus for composing the way he does. Why did Chopin compose so differently from Schumann, and what does the student need to learn to play each composer as he intended? It's very interesting, and separates my students from others that are playing just notes. They may be playing with feeling, but whose feeling? Read More

Instruments: Voice

As a voice teacher, I have greatly enjoyed sharing the gift of music with others. It is important to me that singers always find joy and fulfillment in making music. I work with each singer to choose repertoire that is interesting and enjoyable to work on, and that will allow them to grow musically. We set goals from week to week that will encourage home practice as well, since just like any other skill, learning to perform musically takes time and dedication. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Bass Guitar

I have found my way through music primarily as an instrumentalist, though I have enjoyed being able to stretch my talents into both teaching and writing. While studying Jazz at the University of Central Missouri, I was able to pick up a wide range of experiences with concert and classical playing. I had the opportunities to perform multiple times with various musicals on campus as well, on a small range of instruments. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Double Bass Mallet Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have had great success in continually trying to adapt my methods to what works best for each student. This makes the lesson very personal for the student as well as very fresh and exciting for me. I have had 8 different piano teachers, varoius band directors, college professors, personal private flamenco and jazz lessons. I have played with some of the best players in St. Louis- many of which were also university professors or symphonic performers. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I also believe that Piano Lessons should be fun. Since I generally teach one on one, lessons can be tailored to each student and I add supplementary material to the Piano course as soon as possible based on the student’s progress and interests.  I am willing to add supplementary music in most any genre from current radio hits, to Pop Standards and soundtracks, as well as Holiday Music based on the student’s culture. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

What do I teach? I aim to ensure my students have a mastery of the fundamentals of clarinet playing - such as tone, technique, articulation, and musicianship - and expand their repertoire and musical capabilities through warm-up exercises, etudes, solo repertoire, and orchestral/band excerpts. I teach students efficient practice techniques, how to practice performance, audition preparation, and more. I strive to provide my students with the many valuable lessons learned through music off of the instrument such as building self-confidence, how to take criticism, how to be vulnerable and take risks, teamwork, mindfulness, and more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Keyboard

I am very, very laid back as a teacher and as a person. I know that everyone learns at their own pace, and not everyone can give themselves an hour a day to practice. It's really about finding out every student's individual needs and style. I am not strict whatsoever, but I do expect my students to make progress every week. Again, I am not a classical pianist whatsoever, so I'm not the type of teacher to stand over you and hit your hand with a ruler every time you hit a "wrong" note. Read More