Music Lessons in Hyde Park, PA

Instruments: Guitar

I typically recommend that all beginner students start with Hal Leonard's guitar method books to learn the essential notes, chords, scales, styles, and music theory. After a student becomes comfortable with the basics, I begin diving into what styles or genres the student enjoys or favors. Tailoring lessons for each individual student is very important to my teaching. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I believe it is important for any teacher to be patient and compassionate. Every student is different in their abilities and learning processes. So I remain flexible in trying new ways to keep students engaged and not be distracted if certain techniques become difficult. Unlike a course where you receive a grade, lessons are like coaching sessions. Similar to coaching sports, consistent workouts and drills help build the foundation to perform. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For classical guitar students, I've found the best methods to building a good foundation as well as technique is both the Christopher Parkening and Frederick Noad methods. The student also gets a great selection of repertoire to go along with the basics of technique in each. For all other styles of playing, I've found that the Berklee Guitar Methods work well in building the fundamentals in a students playing in the beginning stages. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For younger students (less than 5), I think Suzuki method would probably work best! We would focus on small exercises to establish good posture and sound while learning mainly through imitation and listening. When a student is able, I do encourage some theory as to read music fluently and gain understanding of basic musical concepts. At this age, I also encourage weekly technical exercises (scales, etudes) to improve ability and fluidity of playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

For beginning students, I typically use a combination of methods. For clarinet teaching, I like to use the Breeze-Easy method and also some materials from the Rubank method books. For intermediate or school-aged students, I like to supplement the material they are learning in school. I like to continue to use Rubank, Klose, and Rose books to continue to develop technique and musicality. For more advanced students or adult learners, I try to cater to the specific interests of the student while continuing to work on improving fundamental skills on the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Ukulele Euphonium French Horn Music

I am a music teacher with experience in teaching students in grades 4-12. I have taught all woodwind and brass instruments, percussion, and ukulele lessons. I also have experience with directing plays and musicals. I graduated Slippery Rock University with honors and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education degree, Kent State University with a Masters in Music Education degree, and an currently attending Point Park University for my Ed.D. in Leadership and Administration. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Art comes in all forms, in my mind. I believe that building the framework of ability is only the tip of the iceberg, and I have encouraged my students to tinker on the piano as well as practice their lessons. Learning what styles they enjoy and what their strengths are helps them to be creative, even in writing their own music. Read More