Music Lessons in Kinloch, MO

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: Piano Organ Keyboard

I do not use any textbooks or piano method books in my teaching. I am almost completely self taught, but have had success with my own methods of teaching piano. I have my own musical examples written out, which I can easily print or email for students. For beginners, I generally focus on basic technique and practice routine. Once the student has mastered some fundamentals (scales, chords, etc.), I introduce beginning level repetoire and start with basic sight-reading techniques. Read More

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

I come from a family of musicians- I was encouraged to play piano as soon as I could sit up. I had formal private piano lessons for 12 years, played in the school orchestra and picked up guitar and drums in local bands. I continued to study music at Mizzou while I performed in restaurants, bars, wineries, and private parties. After graduating I got into social work with foster care and senior centers during the day while i taught private lessons and played in bands at night. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Since we're all different, I try to identify students' goals, interests and abilities as we progress. With few exceptions -- students whose temperament andpersonality dictate completing a book before considering another -- I always choose from a large assortmentof method, performance, classical books from my library. I also have a good collection ofBroadway musicals, jazz books, etc. (My favorite series is the Faber and Faber repertoire.) Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am a funny, down-to-earth person and am always considerate of my students' feelings.  My tone is never critical, as my main goal is to inspire the same sort of passion for music that I have aquired throughout my own musical education.  I have caring teaching practices which generate self-motivated practice, a skill which translates well to all other areas of achievement.  Students are encouraged to work at their own pace, and progress is dependant on level of interest and commitment; "you only get what you give."  This is true for everyone! Read More

Instruments: Guitar

All music can be broken down into three categories: melody, harmony and rhythm. I tend to explore everything we do by observing how the given material utilizes one of these three elements (with rhythm being chief!). I love to instill the ideals that I have learned from my mentors into my own students. All guitar students are taught to think as musicians and not just as guitar players. I often think back on some of Miles Davis's famous words, "If it sounds right, it is right!". Read More