Music Lessons in Murphy, TX

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I was born to play drums... no kidding, as a third generation drummer in my family, I began beating on my dad's kit from the moment that I could hold a pair of sticks. My experiences in high school and college drumlines, as well as Drum Corps International provided a tremendous base of knowledge, discipline, and dedication to many years of playing live shows all over the country with hundreds of talented musicians. 37 years and 1000's of performances later, I'm excited to perform and to share what Iknow with anyone and everyone. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Drums

The following are books that I start my lessons with. In addition, I supplement with materials that my students are interested in learning. If there is a particular song or style that they would like to learn(and is reasonably within their ability level or I am able to modify), I work to teach it to them. Drums: ***The book chosen depends on a student's level and personal goals, but these are great books to start with: Drumset For Preschoolers by Andy Ziker(for students ages 2-6, or students that would benefit from a color-coded system initially) The Drumset Musician By Rod Morgenstein and Rick Mattingly(great for beginning drum beats!) Alfred's Drum Method(for learning rhythms and rudiments) A Fresh Approach to the Drumset by Mark Wessels with Stanton Moore(teaches an intro to a variety of styles, including rock, samba, jazz, etc.) Piano: Alfred's All-in-One Course This book has simple, child-centered lessons that are reasonably paced, teaches beginning music theory, and allows students the opportunity to write. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion Djembe

My approach to teaching is to make it a fun and positive learning experience that they look forward to and stay inspired. Patience, encouragement and understanding of where the student is musically are crucial. I like to emphasize the idea that nothing happens overnight, only through effective practice and repetition. Having this mindset, they will no doubt see results in no time. I always like to establish a goal for each lesson, suggest cool drum videos on Youtube and make sure the student feels like they are free to ask a lot of questions if they aren't understanding something. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The more you learn about an instrument, the more it becomes a passion, because you are making progress. I will help you with that progress as we move forward in our lessons. A big part of learning is staying curious and focused while having fun! I hope to inspire you and want you to feel comfortable asking me questions about music, styles, techniques or anything else "I'm all ears"!! I have been fortunate to have studied with some wonderful teachers and also wish to pass that knowledge on to you as my student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Each student is unique so I start out with seeing where they are and we go from there. If I have a student that is needing more help than usual I will help the student understand things in a way that is helpful for them. Students that have more experience, I use some of the method books that most school use such as Essential Elements for Band, Rubank method books, as well as new material customized for students. Read More

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

I have several method books from college that I can easily print copies and share with my students. I also have several packets and other online resources that will help the students achieve their goal. Technique is essential and very important. So we'll make sure that the student will have proper technique and breathe properly in the rhythm of the song so things flow smoothly and everything is done with ease. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Saxophone Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

I've been teaching in a number of different situations for about 4 years now. I first began teaching in 2010 when I worked at the Magik Children's Theater in San Antonio as an instructor for a School of Rock class there. In this class, I taught beginning students on guitar, bass, keys, and drums how to play popular rock songs. I worked at the Magik Children's Theater for 2 years before moving to California where I worked as a Teaching Assistant and a full time instructor for a number of theory/musicianship classes at the California Institute of the Arts. Read More