Music Lessons in New Prague, MN

Instruments: Violin Viola

I use a variety of books for teaching, and prefer to not use just one. It is essential for students to study scales and arpeggios, so a scale book, typically the Flesch Scale book is required. Other books I use are -Suzuki -Solos for Young Violinists/Violists -For Strings (Though I use Suzuki books, I do NOT teach the Suzuki method. I strong emphasize music reading literacy, and this requires the ability to understand by reading, and not by hearing alone). Read More

Instruments: Piano

I teach students technique, theory, Classical repertoire, and also whichever contemporary pieces they would like to learn. I can learn almost any style and teach it by ear. So in a typical lesson we will start with some scales or technique, move on to some Bach or Mozart, and then try something by ear. Some examples of songs I’ve been working on with students lately are: Chopin c minor Waltz, Sibelius opus 76 Etude, Prince purple rain, Motley Crew home sweet home, Duke Ellington A train, and La Nieve-which my own composition- But classical training is the basis where it all starts Read More

Instruments: Voice

For me, voice teaching is all about the individual. Unlike a violin, trumpet, piano, or other instrument of a fixed size and shape, voices come in all shapes and sizes. Each students physiology and psychology is different and responds better to different stimuli/approaches. In singing, our bodies are our instruments! Therefore, there is no one size fits all approach to teaching voice. It thrills me to get to know a student and work with them in a cooperative and encouraging way to achieve his or her goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I started teaching in 2008 and my studio at its maximum capacity was 30 students - a large portion with whom I worked consistently for 3 years until I decided pursue graduate school. While at UNL I taught applied voice and diction, and literature classes as a teaching assistant. Organizing voice classes, studio recitals, and theatrical coachings are resources I have used and will continue to use in the studio to develop a student's full performance potential. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello

Guitar: For children, I prefer the FJH Young Beginner Guitar method, but for adults I would prefer Hal Leonard if the student is looking to learn both chords and melody using folk music. I could also teach guitar based on gospel and Christian praise music if the student prefers. I have taught students with an interest in rock music, but only to give them the basic foundation skills of chords and notes to build on with another teacher who has more of a rock music speciality. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

My teaching experience started in High School when I would lead groups of my peers in musical exercises. I then had many opportunities to lead individuals or groups in lessons while at school. Professors who have observed me teaching all agree that I have a knack for teaching and getting the student excited about learning the music while also holding them to a high standard of education and seriousness about the subject. Read More