Music Lessons in Leechburg, PA

Instruments: Trombone

For beginning students, I like to build a good foundation. I start with breathing exercises and a little mouthpiece buzzing. Then move on to a beginning book with helpful exercises as well as writing my own to tailor to the student's individual needs. I will begin to introduce solo repertoire once the student has a solid grasp on fundamentals and always encouraging them to keep practicing those key elements. I also like to incorporate anything the student might be interested in to keep the student engaged and excited to practice between lessons. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

In all of my teaching, I combine my students' interests with the leading pedagogy practices in string education to develop the foundational skills of the instrument as well as a fondness for it. There are several method books that I use such as Suzuki, Schroeder's Cello Etudes, and Fiddler's Philharmonic, however, I tailor each lesson path to each student based on student interest as well as proper sequencing. I generally start with these method books, especially for cello, for beginning students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Music

For beginning piano students, Arias typically starts with John Thompson's piano methods books one through four with a focus on musical expression, literacy, and building a foundation of good technique. For beginning trumpet students, Arias typically uses Hal Leonards, Essential Elements Method. Depending on the student's progression and pedagogical needs, Arias next typically moves to an individually prescribed combination of Schlossberg, Clark, and Arban excersises combined with solo literature and/or etudes. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

I approach teaching by making sure that each student is learning at their own pace and always remains passionate about music even when they struggle to achieve a certain technical skill in singing. With my students, I try to build vocal technique and performance skill at a pace that is appropriate for each student and introducing challenging skills only at a gradual pace. By acknowledging technical progress as it happens, the student receives the encouragement to push forward in their studies and maintains a positive attitude towards music. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Teaching music is always something I've felt passionate about and I would love to share the experience and skills that I've learned over my 14 years of playing drums to anyone else with the same passion. I have a well rounded grasp on music theory as well as an ability to learn music by ear. I also have experience playing a large amount of local shows with my band in the Pittsburgh area and am willing to pass on my knowledge of the industry. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

In my studio, I encourage students to look solely at their own track. Everyone's journey is different. We all start lessons at a different age, have different strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes! I welcome my students to share what they love...and hate... so I can tailor our time together to fit their specific learning styles. My teaching philosophy includes asking questions and planning activities that enhance cognitive function. I want to give my students the tools they need so they can look at a piece of music and say, "I know how to practice this," or "I can play this." If my students don't need me anymore, I have done my job! Read More