Music Lessons in Marine, IL

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I consider a number of variables when determining what and how to teach guitar to a student. First, I have to know what kind of music the student enjoys. Next, I need to know what level guitar player they are. If Im teaching a beginning guitarist, I will typically spend a majority of the lesson utilizing fun methods to build basic technique. If a student doesnt have a technical foundation, it may not benefit them to present them with music theory in the beginning. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning and intermediate students I utilize the Bastien Method books series, which includes supplemental Theory and Technique books that can be purchased if needed.  These students each select performance pieces which they enjoy and are level-appropriate from a variety of sources. More advanced students focus primarily on challenging performance pieces, several of which are selected as 'keepers' for practice and review.  Lessons include technique practice (scales, arpeggios, finger exercises), theory (from textbooks, flashcards etc.) music history, instrument mechanics, ear training and musicianship (such as rhythm and sight reading drills, dictation) and student compositions (notation and continuation methods). Read More

Instruments: Voice

I teach holistically, believing the voice to be an instrument inseparable from the person. With all students we endeavor to sing healthily, preserving voices for longevity, and to meet whatever goals the students desire. I am studied in the Bel Canto, Lamberti, and Concone technique and have successfully prepared many students for auditions, contests, festivals, and self confidence for life. The techniques for singing that I use are to create a sound, healthy, and free voice. Read More

Instruments: Voice

After studying opera at The Boston Conservatory for one year, I transferred and finished my undergraduate coursework at Webster University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music in 2009. I studied voice under the direction of Debby Lennon, and was involved in numerous choral events, opera scenes, and jazz concerts. Shortly after graduation, I opened my lesson studio, and have been teaching ever since!  Many of my students have landed lead roles in school and community plays and musicals, and have also been invited to perform in the childrens, and teens choruses for The Muny.  One of my students even made it to Hollywood Week on American Idol this season! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Double Bass Mallet Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have had great success in continually trying to adapt my methods to what works best for each student. This makes the lesson very personal for the student as well as very fresh and exciting for me. I have had 8 different piano teachers, varoius band directors, college professors, personal private flamenco and jazz lessons. I have played with some of the best players in St. Louis- many of which were also university professors or symphonic performers. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Recorder Euphonium French Horn Music Keyboard

For young beginner students (Ages 3-7) I typically start them with the Music for Little Mozart Series (4 books total). I pair that with fun music games, rhythm practice, listening activities and other misc. activities. At this age it is difficult for them to sit at the piano bench for the whole lesson so we only spend about half the lesson (but split up) at the piano and the other half learning basic music concepts through games. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Flute Bass Guitar

My teaching style may vary depending upon the student. I have several books and other teaching material available for my students. These include: Berkley Music Theory I and II, several Hal Leonard, and Fischer books and more! Lesson material will mostly depend upon the student's goals and current skill-set. EVERY lesson will consist of: assessing and tracking the student's skill-set, solidifying the student's goals along with my goals for the student, and creating a plan of action to follow in order to reach these goals. Read More