Music Lessons in Monroe, MI

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching style is fun and effective. I find that a huge percentage of issues people face are themselves, so I employ fun techniques to overcome obstacles. An example would be a student I currently have who gets tense as she approaches higher notes- I will have her toss a ball back and forth as a distraction technique and it's amazing that a beautiful, free high note come right out! Read More

Instruments: French Horn

I like to use Kopprasch etudes and James Chambers orchestral excerpts. But like to settle on a warm-up style that the student prefers. I focus on breath control, dynamics, legato and staccato execution and when the student has mastered this we move on to making music, not playing notes. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

As an accomplished self taught pianist and composer I've spent my life experimenting with different methods, material and practice beliefs. I can teach and speak more broadly now about music, not as an elitist activity but as a language vital to humans whether it is "spoken" or heard. I encourage exploration, a firm understanding of fundamentals and full pursuit of whatever goals are set by the student. This understanding has allowed me to produce over 50 projects, 250 string arrangements and write well over 200 songs to date. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is to help one discover a love for music. When I was learning, the best way I got excited was by learning through what I liked. That helped me get excited for playing music, and more interested in learning the complexities in music. By acknowledging what the student likes and their strengths, I can help focus them on how to reach the dreams they desire. I give my students a positive attitude with no judgement of their skill level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginners, I teach from the Hal Leonard's Guitar Method Books. This is to get a basis of music such as rhythm, notation & the fundamentals of guitar. These elements would also apply to learning other fretted-instruments. I spend half the lesson time working on book material, form, and technique, & the remaining half on material the student is interested in. For intermediate and advanced students, I tailor each lesson to meet your goals - whether that's technique, sight-reading, theory, performance, or more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

When I start out with a new student I like to see what kind of learning works best for them. Are they a visual, audio or tactical learner? from there I modify each lesson for each individual student. I make sure my lessons are a very positive experience with no criticism. I teach with charts, tablature and standard notation. My primary method of teaching is to have my students study from my own books, in addition to publications by Mel Bay and Hal Leonard. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Bass Guitar Double Bass

Just as every player has their own musical personality and voice, so too does every lesson that Nicholas gives. In a supportive, patient environment, every lesson is custom tailored to the student. Being musical is inherent to being human, so when a students’ musical abilities fail to progress, it is the teaching method that has failed, not the student. While my educational background allows me to offer my students a high level of instruction in instrumental technique, my first priority with every student is to foster their love and understanding of music through playing their instrument.  Read More