Music Lessons in Malaga, 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: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Ukulele Recorder French Horn Piccolo Orchestral Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe

For piano students, I prefer Alfred's methods, whether the adult or for beginners. For band and orchestra, I use Essential Elements (or whatever their school is using), and supplement with Rubank's methods. For voice, I concentrate on whatever the student is interested in, with a foundation of good technique and understanding of the voice range and how to control it, with some solfege and sight-singing mixed in. Whatever the instrument, I follow and listen to the student to understand what they need, and change my curriculum to suit them. 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

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

For all beginning students who are children, but also adult beginners, I like to focus on vocal warm-ups and exercises to ensure that they develop the fundamentals of healthy singing. After getting to know the student's voice a bit, I believe that coaching solo vocal repertoire is essential to building vocal technique and confidence in performing ability for many different situations. When assigning vocal repertoire, I first like to find out what sort of music the student is interested in and also what their goals are in taking voice lessons and assign repertoire accordingly, but I also like to begin with songs from Schirmer's 24 Italian Songs and Arias book to strengthen basic breath support and a vocal line that is connected to good breath support. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet

I have been a private lesson instructor of students in grades 4-12 for over 6 years. I have experience and familiarity with multiple teaching methods and repertoire, and I always do my best to personalize the lesson experience for each individual student. I also recently completed my student teaching experience within the State College Area School District. Each day for a total of over five months, I worked with students in the elementary and high school level across bands, choirs, general music, and small group lesson instruction. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully customized my instruction to their interest and needs. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

My students describe me as enthusiastic and passionate to an infectious degree! I bring lots of energy to lessons and make learning fun and easy. While I am highly critical in a constructive sense, I have never become harsh with a student. I teach with a great sense of compassion and duty in helping the student achieve their highest potential. Although we will primarily work in areas of weakness, I also like to help my students learn how to play on their own strengths so they can develop the confidence for positive performance experiences. Read More