Music Lessons in Montclair, CO

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

For beginner students, my primary goal is to teach fundamental musical concepts and basic technique so that they have a solid foundation on which to expand. This means a focus on rhythm and meter, stick control, and some basic coordination. For intermediate students, I tend to tailor lessons based on their own musical interests, helping them expand their knowledge of the drumset by delving into genres of music that speak to them. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I am a firm believer that each and every student with the excitement to learn can succeed. That said, everyone moves at their own pace and responds differently when learning new skills. Therefore, I have learned to adapt to the student and tailor my instruction so that they are comfortable in the learning process. Some students are more quiet than others, but I still encourage my students to ask questions and talk through the problems they encounter. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I like to first assess what is the primary goal of the student and progress from there. Teaching methods that are too strict or too generic can often leave a lasting impression on a student (and not a good one!) Thus, I attempt to make all students feel comfortable and secure - with an understanding that mistakes are necessary to progress forward. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

For beginning adults and teenagers, I like to use Faber Adult Piano Adventures to teach the fundamentals. I complement these studies with other pieces according to each student's taste and technical needs. For very young children, I like to use Music for Little Mozarts and for older children, I use Faber Piano Adventures. I also compose for each student based on skills I believe they could benefit from practicing. I teach every student music theory, using Alfred Essentials Music Theory workbooks. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Ukulele

With most beggining students I use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements 2000. For intermediate students I find the Rubank methods move at a faster pace and put a larger emphases on scales. For beginning students, when students are ready I will introduce an easy solo book. In most cases I use Belwin Master Solos or an Essential Elements supplement depending on the interests of the student. For students interested in learning jazz or other forms of improvisation, I would use Hal Leonard's "How to Play from a Real Book" in combination with the Hal Leonard or Aebersold play-along series. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo Keyboard

For Beginners, I focus on music theory and the most important steps of caring for your flute. Then we branch into tone, technique, and rhythm. For my intermediate students, we start by using Taffanel and Gaubert Grand Exercises for technique. I also require my students to have Trevor Wye books for tone and technique. These will be a staple in the practice room and throughout your studies with the flute. Read More