Music Lessons in Merriman Valley, OH

Instruments: Violin Viola

I practice radical empathy in all things, but especially with my students. I believe kindness helps us grow; fostering a positive environment and relationship with my students is important to me, because it is important for their development as musicians. I believe in a holistic approach to teaching an instrument, nurturing and working on body, mind, and soul—a healthy and happy musician is a good musician! I encourage students to fall in love with what they do, and to advance at their own pace. Read More

Instruments: Voice Music

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of 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 a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Drums

After graduation, he attended the Armed Forces School of Music and served four years as a member of the prestigious 434th US Army Band. After his discharge in 1995, Matt moved to Akron, OH and began the real business of paying his dues in original bands, clubs, wedding bands, theaters, demo sessions, and countless one nighters. This was also the period when he began his career as a teacher, both privately and as an adjunct faculty member for the Tuscarawas Valley School District, where his students and ensembles were awarded the highest honors at the district and state level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Mandolin Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My approach to teaching kids has always emphasized finding joy in the instrument. I will always start with the a good foundation of a solid understanding of music fundamentals and work with the kids at a pace that allows them to grow yet really enjoy what they are doing. For older kids and adults I make sure that I have a good understanding of what they are trying to achieve and provide the tools to allow them to get accomplish their goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute

I'm a passionate, motivated instructor who loves working with students of all ages. In 2003, I graduated from Bryan College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education with a vocal emphasis and in 2011, I graduated from James Madison University with a Masters of Arts degree in Music Education with a Kodaly emphasis. I have performed in the past with the Fine Arts Chorale of Kansas City, Washington Kantorei, Choralis, Arundel Vocal Arts Society, the U.S. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Lately while playing and practicing my saxophone, my 4.5 year old daughter has taken an interest in learning to play with me so that has pushed me in a new direction to begin teaching others. This will be my first experience teaching but want to bring the excitement to students that I see in my own daughter. My abilities range from beginners to intermediate level and want students to be comfortable with the basics and progress as they gain confidence in their ability. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Euphonium French Horn

As I've said above, my teaching is curtailed to the individual needs of my students. I stress development as a complete musician, and that often includes breaking away from technique to discuss other ideas like music theory, ear training, etc. Most importantly, I can explain difficult concepts in many ways. I am a degreed educator, having studied various learning styles and philosophies. I incorporate techniques from Kodaly, Orff, Suzuki, Dalcroze, Alexander--- each student has different needs. Read More