Music Lessons in Newport, MI

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer

Every student is different.  Music Theory, various styles and forms and performance are all important and part of the main focus.  I also like them to learn songs and styles that they enjoy. It's important for them to pick up their instrument every day, develop their calluses and coordination.  I find this not only encourages them to play and explore more on their own, but keeps their focus on developing their own style. Read More

Instruments: Violin Music

Though I will use basic materials to give students the knowledge necessary to begin, I believe it is important to allow students to play things themselves, to make mistakes because that is how we learn. My goal is to teach people music not to show them, meaning I provide the framework for a student's improvement so the student themselves can finish building the way they want to. Every student learns differently and I can effectively adapt to different paces at which students learn. supporting and acknowledging a student's progress is key. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

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 am able to teach any genre at any level. Read More

Instruments: Drums

When starting with a beginner student, I typically start by asking general questions about their interests and the music genres they enjoy. Then, we move on to the basics of maintaining proper form, understanding rhythm, and practicing simple exercises to ensure they start off with the right foundation. After that, we focus on learning the first few basic beats and ensuring they have a good understanding of how they are played. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Bass Guitar Double Bass

I believe that in order to effectively teach, one must also do. My extensive performance background allows me to read a student to see what their goals might be and custom fit a curriculum around them. Sometimes a method book is the right way to go. Books such as the Alfred series and Hal Leonard often offer easily attainable goals for younger students. However, it is always important to listen to one's students to find out what music makes them passionate and make sure to weave that into the practice of good technique, and theory. Read More

Instruments: Voice

My method varies with each student. I listen to the students needs and use my expertise to help them achieve their goals. For younger students, I use a variety of material but very much like The Royal Conservatory Program. In the age of, "American Idol", "The Voice" and "Glee", everyone wants to be a star overnight. While this enthusiasm is wonderful, it is sometimes difficult to direct students to material that suits their voice and will build their instrument. Read More