Music Lessons in Lake Monroe, FL

Instruments: Trombone

Bio: John came out of the successful, state championship student jazz program at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa. After studying under Ray Smith (Brigham Young University) in Provo, Utah, he played with the internationally known big band, Synthesis, including opening for Gerry Mulligan's big band at the Montreux Jazz Festival, and for Carlos Santana at the Antibes Jazz Festival outside Monte Carlo, France. After building a successful career in advertising and technology marketing, he picked up his playing pace when he moved to Denver. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

 I emphasize proper breathing and healthy technique, especially for young singers whose voices have not yet matured.  I like to give students an idea of what would be beneficial to them and then let them choose their own repertoire based on their musical preferences.  I emphasize consistent practice but in a stress-free way.  One of the most important things is for each student to feel that they are having fun in their learning and also learning things that are important to them. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Lap Steel Guitar

My teaching experience started in my high school years, as I got a summer job working as a "Band Instructor" for a rock summercamp called "Harcum Summer Music Programs." I attended the same institution as a camper, and it was also owned by the same school in which I received private lessons. I also started teaching private lessons in the same timeframe, taking on some students in my neighborhood and slowly building up a group of students over the next ten years. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle

My methods fall into 4 categories: 1) Essential Technique- Students will learn the basics from the Essential Elements books, Etude books such as Wolfahrt and Dont, and customized materials 2) Music Theory and History- Students will learn note reading, key signatures, scales and arpeggios, intervals, rhythm and music history through customized materials and games 3) Solo- Students will choose solos from the Suzuki violin/viola series, or another skill-appropriate solo 4) Ensemble- Once the student has basic familiarity with his or her instrument, I will find them an appropriate ensemble opportunity such as youth orchestra, All-County/All-State Orchestra, adult community orchestra or chamber music Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. If a student isn't having fun in their lessons, then I'm not doing my job! My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Double Bass Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

By my sophomore year I had begun taking on private cello students. Fast forward to six months post-graduation, I had myself a full schedule between my private studio and a local music school I was contracted by. At my peak I had near 60 recurring students young and old across six instruments, 40 of which regularly performed at out semi-annual recitals! My secret to managing such a large studio at times is my love for teaching. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Ukulele Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I take careful consideration of each students personality, learning style, and goals as I approach my teaching methods for lessons. I love working with neurodivergent students and finding unique ways to help them focus and retain information during lessons. I am encouraging of progress and try my best to keep students motivated. I love to teach with the goal of giving the student the information they need to be able to help themselves. Read More