Music Lessons in Laporte, CO

Instruments: Piano Voice

I find it so rewarding to help others find joy through music, whether you are a true novice or an experienced singer or player. While I think it is important for all students to achieve our weekly goals and progress regularly, I also try to cultivate an extremely positive environment so that you will leave each lesson feeling encouraged to continue enjoying your music as you work to improve. I believe myself to be a thorough teacher, but will never try to make you feel as though you are being tested. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Over the past few years I've been a guest Instructor at Summer UCamps, Performing Arts Camp for Students grades 3-12. I've studied personally with world renowned Victor Wooten and have been nominated for a Grammy in 2008 for bass performance on Blues Legend John Lee Hooker Jr's Album "All Odds Against Me". Since 2006, I have toured internationally in Europe, Central America, Africa, Caribbean Islands, Scandinavia, Canada, and North America, sharing the stage with B.B.King, Lenny Kravitz, ZZ Top, and more. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

For students beginning in an elementary band program, I like to use the same book (such as Essential Elements) that they are using in school. With students learning outside of a band class, or if it won't interfere with what they've already learned, I start with just the headjoint of the flute, making sure the student is comfortable producing clear sound before adding the body of the flute. Because the flute is not like the other woodwind instruments in that you do not blow directly into it, it can be challenging for students to learn how to form an embouchure. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin

I've taught all ages in studio, in my home, and in students home. I've taught across the DC area and the NYC metro area. I've taught the very young and very old. I've taught for special circumstances and needs of all kinds. Ask me about it and I'll tell you. I can prepare you for auditions, coach you for performance, and help you find your voice in composition. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music

For beginners, I like to start with the basic fundamentals of the instrument. Brass instruments are notoriously demanding, so making sure we have a solid grasp on the fundamentals is paramount. I like to start with the Essential Elements for Band and the Elementary Method for Cornet and Trumpet books. Once we have the fundamentals, I like to start introducing some solo pieces, jazz, and pop tunes that will allow the student to get a feel for all the music they can play on this instrument! Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

I have used several different method books for beginners, but I tend to like the Faber edition. After about the second or third book I incorporate classical music pieces into the lesson. For adults I have had success with Piano Partners, which uses a different style of showing patterns and teaching improv to get the student playing much faster than traditional methods. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice

As stated above, I believe that emotion plays an integral role in the mastery and performance of any instrument. Consequently, my teaching style revolves around the use and application of emotion in play. A simple example of this would be a simple discussion of the differences between major and minor chords and the relative emotion conveyed by each, as interpreted by the student. Positive reinforcement also comes into play as each step the student takes towards applying their emotional self to their instrument is recognized and acknowledged. Read More