Music Lessons in Newcastle, OK

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I first find out what inspired a students decision to study and/or play music. Then, I strive to adapt to my students learning style and use their personal interests to bring out the highest potential for learning. I write my own exercises for each student because I believe every student will have different needs that can be addressed with individualized exercises. Additionally, I focus on teaching students how to choose priorities for practice. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. I also teach advanced jazz students for style and improvisation to prepare them for performance Read More

Instruments: Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Music Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I cover both the physical skill of creating a musical sound and building a song from its melodic and rhythmic core. In doing this both children and adults are tutored in proper positioning of their hands and bodies to create a comfortable and relaxed posture of playing. I cover a variety of notation methods including tabulature, staff notation and chordal diagrams. The focus is on melodies the student is already familiar with, engaging their ear, eye and tactical senses. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

I base my teaching out of the Schroeder Violoncello Methods for all ages along with the Schroeder 170 cello studes. Along with that I pick pieces that the student will find enjoyable as a means to keep them encouraged. Usually I introduce traditional classical repertoire at the beginning of their second year as the student is usually more comfortable with the instrument at that point. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet

Music is a language! I teach music in a similar manner as we learn to speak. We learn to speak through trial and error having no wrong words and music should be taught in a similar fashion, where there are no wrong notes. We learn our speaking style, manner and/or accents by what we hear and this concept also applies to music; therefore listening is a crucial part for advancement and the pleasure of learning. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

I emphasize reading, because it gives each student the tools to learn independently and unlocks worlds of information. If a younger student aspires to play in school bands, this knowledge will equip him or her to this end and place the student ahead of his or her peers. I also emphasize feel, because this goes way beyond the mere reproducing of written notes into the very heart of music. I teach students how to analyze and map songs, so they may take those tools forward and utilize critical listening skills. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium

I tailor my teaching to each student's current ability and level of interest. Every student is different in personality, interest and motivation, and I do my level best to approach each student individually with this in mind. I try to encourage each student to practice regularly to achieve the weekly goals I set at each lesson for the student. I believe helping the student achieve success each week is vital to his development as a musician, for I believe this success will often serve to motivate the student to put in the work necessary to advance his skills, which will ultimately become lead the student to become more self-motivated. Read More