Music Lessons in Lake Elmo, MN

Instruments: Guitar

I start out the students first lesson giving a brief intro on my background as a musician. I then talk to the student to see what their goals as an upcoming musician are. I focus my lessons on the students skill level, goals among others. I incorporate music theory, ear training, learning to improvise over changes. For beginners I start with basic Melodie’s line Star Wars. Clapping rhythms keeping time using a metronome. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I started teaching in high-school. I taught guitar and drums from ages 7 to 55, from the absolute beginner to someone rekindling an old habit. I had the opportunity to use the lessons I was learning in college while I was still in college. I not only was a tutor, but I had some students outside of school. This helped my skills as a teacher improve quickly. Since college, I have been performing origjnals and covers in my free time, and I really enjoy it, but eventually I would love to teach more than i perform. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

Starting with a couple of easy scales will teach the student how to position their hands properly and there they will learn how to cross their fingers as well. Even though a lot of this may not be "fun", it is the fundamentals of becoming a good piano player and will help tremendously in future lessons as well. After touching over all of that or even in the midst of it, I like to try to find a few beginning songs that will keep the student engaged and eager to learn more. Read More

Instruments: Piano

It is important that each student progress at his or her own pace. Encouragement is given by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps engage a students desire to progress and make students eager to learn more. By exploring what inspires the student, I can tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. An example is using the Faber and Faber book PlayTime Piano Rock'n'Roll and learningRock Around the Clock or Rockin'Robin and PlayTime Piano Classics such as Lullaby by Brahms or Country Dance by Beethoven. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

I like to begin students in the Arban's Conservatory Method book, it is a very thorough book with a lot of examples of most technical things a student should work on. It is a very comprehensive book that doesn't focus on anything in particular but covers everything well. I then like to move into books that focus more on different aspects of playing such as Charlier, Vizutti, Brandt, and Orchestral Excerpt books meant for Smphony auditions. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I was born into a family of string teachers. My father was a conductor and cellist and also played violin. My mother was a violinist and my brother. So it was only natural this became my course in life. I started on the violin, but soon focused on the cello. I was surrounded by string teaching my whole life. But it was not until I met George Neikrug and learned about D. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass French Horn

Teaching music is one of the most rewarding experiences for both the teacher and the student. I teach students at their own pace, focusing on taking them from where they are to there highest potential. I encourage realistic goals and strategies to reach their goals at every lesson. Having a very specific plan for how to improve is key for reaching your potential,I adapt my teaching to the student and work hard to find the most effective way to reach the student. Read More