Music Lessons in Monroe Township, PA

Instruments: Guitar

Teaching style: having the student focus on simplicity...focus on practice, practice, practice....focus on enjoying the lesson, not dreading it. I will assess the students' needs simply by having a conversation first. Then ask some basic questions about what music style is appealing to them. Most important is that whatever the student's level is, just feel comfortable, relaxed and look forward to this wonderful journey that is called "Playing the Guitar"!    Keep in mind, my schedule is flexible. Read More

Instruments: Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Euphonium Tuba

My methodology follows a template: I will first establish a firm grasp on the fundamentals before moving my emphasis towards precise intonation and rhythm. I will then focus on giving students the creative drive and the tools to be masterful artists of their instruments so they are better able to bring a story to the notes on the paper. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My style is a blend of fun and high standards. I am very gifted at motivating people to go beyond what they can achieve on their own in a fun way. Each lesson contains performing of old pieces, learning of new pieces, theory, and technique  I believe that the student should be challenged to achieve their fullest potential while being encouraged.  Lessons should be fun and upbeat with lots of energy.  Students can achieve a great deal if they are challenged as well as loved, and if they are having fun! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My teaching style emphasizes areas that the student enjoys playing, as well as method books and technique exercises that will advance their playing. Developing and solidifying core concepts in lessons is more important to me than speeding through exercises in a book, and I always stress the importance of doing things right before moving on. I encourage my students to practice at their own pace, however I always stress that picking up the instrument for even just ten minutes a day for a week is better than one day for an hour. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

For my beginning students, I teach the INstrument first. What each knob does, the names of the strings and the names of every note on the Bass/Guitar/Keyboard.The Major and Minor scales come next but examples of each are played for the student so that the color of the scales become familiar. I teach how to communicate with other musicians. Charts, Tabs and Nashville number systems are included. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Although I began performing and teaching while still a teenager, I consider the beginning of my full time career to begin upon my graduation from Berklee (1979). I had taught on and off through C.A. House Music in Wheeling, WV, and also as a teaching assistant during my years of graduate study. In 1994, I developed WVU's first program in Guitar Performance, where I taught until 2018. During this period I also taught at Frostburg University, Washington Jefferson University, and West Liberty University, where I continue as an adjunct Professor of Guitar. Read More