Music Lessons in Happy Valley, OR

Instruments: Voice

My teaching focuses on bodily awareness and fundamental vocal techniques initially; this includes exercises to promote bodily flexibility and release tension in the muscles that can hinder ideal singing. This is paired with vocal exercises that promote use of the voice in a way that allows maximal vocal freedom and health. As the student gains consistency of vocal control and awareness, more time is allotted to working on music. I encourage students to discuss and choose music from the style(s) of their liking, as this keeps the student maximally engaged and allows the student to apply what they've learned to a situation that they can relate to. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Bass Guitar

When I teach I enjoy seeing my students express their emotions through their music, and develope a passion for their instrument. That passion is so very magical, and I aim to encourage this with personalized lesson plans hinging off of the musical stylings of a musicians that my student is interested in so they can begin to build a unique and passionate style of their own. Most of all I believe that its important to have fun with music, which is why I consider improvisation an important part of my curriculum. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I've been teaching guitar from the time I got my driver's license at 16 years old. Throughout my teens and my college years I worked as a freelancer, teaching students in their homes. After college I spent several summers teaching group lessons at a family summer resort as well as spending some time teaching in a guitar shop in Los Angeles. These days I teach students locally in Southern Oregon as well as students all around the world through Skype! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Ukulele Recorder

In 2011, Chuck moved to Portland, Oregon from Gainesville, Florida, where he was a staple of the music teaching and performing community for more than 25 years. Originally from Chicago, Chuck completed his BA in Music History and a Masters of Music (MM) at the University of Florida. Chuck began piano lessons at age 12 at a time when The Beatles caught his attention. His first attempt at composing was actually improvising melodies over the ending chords to "Hey Jude". Read More

Instruments: Piano

My teaching experience began roughly four years ago during one of my college summer breaks when I taught weekly private piano lessons to two children who were advanced-beginner students. In our lessons, the students learned various ways to develop their technique and prepared repertoire that they later performed at the end of the summer. After the summer ended and they finished giving their recitals, I took a break from teaching to finish getting my degree. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For younger students and those just starting out, I will usually start with a basic introduction to their instrument, get them acquainted with it and how to properly play the instrument before moving on to basic scales and beginner songs. As for more experienced and older students, I try to figure out what their goals are as a musician and guide the instruction based on those goals and ensuring that things remain engaging as well as educational. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I believe that every style can and should be approached with appropriate traditional technique. My students focus on learning to use their whole body as their instrument with proper breathing, posture, and diction. Once great technique is learned, you can use this knowledge for any style and maintain a healthy voice. With each new student we discuss to make sure I know their goals and what they would like to gain from studying the voice. Read More