Music Lessons in Granite City, IL

Instruments: Voice

I am dedicated to training beginner to advanced voices using a mixture of classical and pop techniques.  For younger students, I typically begin with just getting them comfortable to sing by letting them choose the songs they love to listen to, and using vocal techniques that are easy for them to grasp and understand.  For my pre-teen, and teenage students I work on more pre-advanced vocal techniques that they can utilize while singing the songs they love.  When I have an adult student, I like to use pre-advanced to advanced vocal techniques as a larger part of the lesson, and help them to apply those techniques to whatever projects they are already working on outside of the studio. Read More

Instruments: Voice

For beginning students, in their early twenties, I typically start by making a proper tone and learn how natural it can be. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of certain fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their performance career. As they progress, I try to find out, mutually, find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I have something unique and wonderful to share with people, music. Making music brings joy to students - teaching them how to explore their creativity and artistry, express themselves, and grow to become more confident and capable people. The most exciting part about teaching to me is starting with a student who is a bit shy or unsure of their abilities at first and watching that student grow into a confident person who enjoys playing their instrument as they reach a new level of artistry! Read More

Instruments: Trombone Bass Guitar

The fundamentals of playing are a great place to start with any lessons. Working with scales, breathing, and intonation are among those fundamentals that help build up ones playing at the strongest points. From there, it is important to incorporate those into etudes and solos, learning how they function within written pieces. Another important aspect of successful lessons, I believe, is giving the student a choice. Working with solos and topics they are interested in help make the environment more open and available for progression. Read More

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

I have been a full-time private music teacher since 1995. One of my lifes greatest pleasures has been motivating my students to succeed and helping them to see how much fun they can have in the process. I use my training and 30+ years of performance to teach to the students personal interests, strengths, and learning styles that fit them best. My in-home studio is conveniently located in Crestwood Missouri and contains 2 pianos, full-sized marimba, 16 acoustic electric stringed instruments, amplifiers, double-bass, drums and various world percussion. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I began teaching during pedagogy classes at the University of Illinois. I've continued to teach piano whenever possible during other careers. (I also have a degree in journalism and communications, so I've worked as a writer, editor, public relations director and related fields). It's important that students have fun while learning, and I attempt to engage them as much as I can in endeavors they enjoy. I love seeing laughter and joywhen someone masters amusicproblem which with they previously struggled. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Recorder Euphonium French Horn Music Keyboard

For young beginner students (Ages 3-7) I typically start them with the Music for Little Mozart Series (4 books total). I pair that with fun music games, rhythm practice, listening activities and other misc. activities. At this age it is difficult for them to sit at the piano bench for the whole lesson so we only spend about half the lesson (but split up) at the piano and the other half learning basic music concepts through games. Read More