Music Lessons in Middlebury, OH

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My approaches change depending on a students age, experience, and personality. Every student is unique and has their own musical language to develop and it is my philosophy that unique students require unique approaches. All of that being said, I utilize lesson time as efficiently as possible to give students the tools they need to progress in their own solo practice. One of my teachers once said "I am only your teacher for an hour each week, that means for 167 hours a week you are your own teacher." This adage shaped my approach to lessons so that I can give students the ability to practice as effectively as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Ukulele Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

Positive reinforcement is everything! While there will always be room for improvement and growth, it is crucial to acknowledge successes throughout each lesson. Learning a new instrument requires patience, practice, and determination, and reinforcers can be a huge motivator (I know they were for me when I was learning). Realistic goals should be set for the individual at each lesson. Most importantly, it is not a race. Adaptations will be made accordingly based on the learning pace of each student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

My initial lesson with the student will involve gauging the interests and skill level of the student, as well as determining what motivates him/her and creates excitement about music. Thereafter, I choose one or two method books which seem to best fit the student's ability level and contain exercises and short etudes which will maintain the student's interest and motivation. I also stay attuned to the student's preferred musical styles, and incorporate techniques that will best serve the music that they prefer to play. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I really do cater each lesson to each individual student's needs and ambitions. One of the biggest skills needed as a musician is knowing how to practice and improve. I focus this a lot. We also keep it fun of course and play duets together! Instilling proper technique is crucial to healthy playing of the cello. I give systematic instructions on how to navigate the cello. I love seeing students improve and flourish. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

Teaching beginning Clarinet is one of my specialties. Generally speaking, I use the Belwind Band builder and Standard of Excellence method books to teach fundamentals of the Clarinet. I also mix my own teaching style, especially forming an embouchure (how one's lips and teach rest on the mouth piece). I believe it is very important to teach embouchure, breathing and posture to ensure great habits once the beginning student progresses. Read More

Instruments: Voice

All good singing is the same. Whether you are belting out Celine Dion or delicately exploring the passion and beauty of a Schubert Art Song, 99% of the technique remains the same--the fundaments of breath support, posture, vowel shape, formants, laryngeal posture, etc. As an instructor I reinforce those fundamentals very hard from the beginning because establishing a solid technical base is paramount to healthful singing in any style. Within that technical framework, I always make sure that I am finding my students' passions and working to make their own musicianship and musicality come to life as effectively and rewardingly as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I am very much a people person and enjoy adapting my teaching styles to the individual. Some people want to learn a very specific style of music, and others are open to learning everything. If the student does not read music, I always try to encourage a few lessons of just learning music theory. I find it very beneficial, even if the student just wants to learn guitar chords or tab. Read More