Music Lessons in Milan, MI

Instruments: Piano Voice

During the first lesson I have the student sing (if it is a vocal lesson) their favorite song so I can hear them. After that i use my keyboard and take the student through some excersizes to really home in on that range. I listen for qualities and we discuss the positives and what improvements are needed. After the first lesson we choose music: a classical art song book and theory book of my choosing, and a songbook of the student's choosing. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Each student learns differently and has trouble with differnt things, therefore I adapt the way I teach a student based on their needs, learning style and skill level. What the student is interested in is also very important in order to keep the student engaged. Most topics can be taught using various types of music that the student is interested in. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For younger students, I utilize method books to familiarize the student with reading music. Scales, and whole tones to develop the embouchure and intonation. For intermediate and advanced students an emphasis is placed on mastering the essentials necessary to succeed in the musical ensembles and as a soloist.Articulation, timing, phrasing and dynamics are the key focus to further the players technique. Sight Reading, Scales Practice, and various exercises are utilized to build technique and endurance. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

There are quite a few method books that I like to use with my students. To start, I like to have students use the Beginner Rubank Method Book (the blue book) and work through this to get the basics down. After this, I like to choose some supplemental solo pieces that aren't in this book to help the students grasp the concepts that they have been working on, outside of what is shown in the book. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

I like to take a global approach to teaching percussion. The things that can be learned by playing on a pad with drumsticks can be transferred to other instruments such as Marimba, Timpani, and Multiple-Percussion. I find it essential to teach students good fundamentals in order for them to progress without having to fix bas habits. I also like to curb my lessons to fit what each student needs. When planning my lessons, I like to assess the student and build their weaknesses up first, while praising them for their strengths and taking them to the next level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Double Bass

I generally use Alfred for piano, both the children's and adult's versions. I use Hal Leonard for guitar. For both violin and double bass, I generally use either Belwin or Essential Elements. However, some students prefer to not use a method book at all and that is fine. Also, some have different method books they like, which is also fine. Read More