Music Lessons in Indianapolis, IN

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

For young beginning students, I really like to emphasize the fundamentals using whatever book the student uses for their band class. Once they get a good grasp on the fundamentals, then I start to introduce some solo repertoire appropriate to their skill level. For students who are older, I like to find out what area of the trumpet they want to improve on and structure our lessons to try and improve on those areas, as well as incorporate other fundamentals and solo repertoire. I try to make the lessons as fun as possible and geared towards what the student wants to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I started playing guitar at age 8. In my formative years I studied with various instructors around central Indianapolis until mid year of '85. Upon this time I studied a full year with James Lee Thorpe whom eventually played, toured recorded with Sweet F.A. They released albums with MCA Chrysalis Records. I began composing my own riffs, melodies and solo work at age 15 also. I studied Music Theory my Junior year at Ben Davis High School. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

With younger beginning saxophone students I start them with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements book 1. This Provides a great foundation for students to start on and benefits in the long run. For mid range skill level students we start with (depending upon skill) the Rubank beginning or intermediate method book. This provides a lot of melodic material for them to grow as a musician. Lastly, for the advanced we would start with Ferling Etudes which really challenge the student at a higher level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

I provide all music work sheets that we learn from that involve chords, scales, tabliture, notes...etc. Music is based upon the students current skill set, and what their interests are pertaining to music. The overall goal is to further develop musical talent at an appropriate pace in a comfortable teaching environment, that allows the student ask questions, try new things, and explore their insturment in ways they may not have imagined before. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Organ

For adults, I would continue using these books but at a higher level with supplemental material on the side, which may include solo repertoire appropriate for them and Hanon's Virtuoso Pianist exercises (a few, not all). For voice students, I try to find out what it is they are interested in singing; I am comfortable with all genres but it should be noted that I am classically trained and can work more easily and comfortably for those wanting to sing classical music, musical theater, and church related music.  A student must enjoy what they are working on in order to progress. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I certainly have adopted the teaching styles of my previous and current instructors, each bringing a unique approach to teaching an instrument. Patience and understand is crucial with any students, and there needs to be a lot of fun and excitement within a lesson, otherwise, what is the point? Now, fun and excitement must also be met with serious practice time and great concentration during a lesson. My objective is to create a comfortable environment fertile for learning, while at the same time having my students know there are skills to refine and concepts to solidify. Read More