Music Lessons in Maple Valley, WA

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I have been playing drums since I was twelve years old and have performed in many rock and jazz bands. I studied music in college and graduated with a Master of Music Degree in Percussion Performance from San Francisco State University in 1992. Since then I have continued to perform in local rock, jazz and blues groups as well performing with the Berkeley Symphony, The Santa Rosa Symphony and others. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

My teaching method consists of a focus on what the student is interested in, using what the student enjoys as a means of developing a comprehensive understanding of music and the guitar. I believe this method keeps students engaged with playing, and makes lessons and practicing fun, rather than feel like a chore. Lessons will deal with subjects such as scales, technique, and music theory. Although they may be tedious, I believe these things are important core elements to really understanding the guitar and music in general, and I would teach them in a way that would be fun for the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute Clarinet

My teaching experienceis is this---I started teaching in High School, and taught at Hoboken School of the Arts for a while, 5years at Highline School District teaching music, 5years at Federal Way Schools teaching music. 7 years in Seattle teaching Clarinet Flute and Piano in the Central District, and at Washington Middle School (gifted students) I have happily taught for Musika for 9 years= clarinet flute, and piano. I taught for 10 years in the view ridge neighborhood while I was getting my degree at college. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

An important element of my teaching is a holistic coordination between mind and body. I have studied Alexander Technique, which is a method of finding the most relaxed, efficient physical movement, beginning with natural, healthy posture. I have studied vocal pedagogy extensively and have done research on vocal injury. With my beginning piano students, I have developed my own methods and exercises to familiarize them with notation and the keyboard. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I believe that learning music should be fun and inspiring, but that 95% of artistry is simply hard work!  I, therefore, aim to create a positive and encouraging environment for all of my students, while still setting challenging goals.  Additionally, I tailor my teaching to fit each student’s needs so that he or she can maximize learning potential. All lessons begin with stretches - to teach the importance of body awareness and tension release - followed by exercises in tone, articulation, technique, and expression development. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I'm a gentle person who believes in exposing my students to the best music, and bringing out of them the music they have within. The idea is to ease their frustrations, not add to them. As long as the student actually tries, I feel confident they will enjoy the wxperience and learn a great deal. Music is one of life's greaat pleasures and worth every bit of the effort required to do it well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone Bass Guitar Euphonium Tuba

I emphasize the areas of music that are most relevant to your successful practice and performance. My students reach their maximum potential quickly and with confidence. With my expertise and your dedication, we'll have fun and you'll come away from each lesson with something new to work on. For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. Read More