Music Lessons in Ninnekah, OK

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

I base my teaching methods on the student I am teaching. For students that are children at a beginner level, I typically begin with the essential elements of creating vocal foundation which I draw from many sources. Once we have set a good foundation, we tend to begin working on repertoire that is appropriate for the level at which they are singing, using those songs as learning opportunities. For adults, I begin by asking about the goals of the individual student and I then formulate a strategy to help the student reach their specific singing goals. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Everyone starts differently and everyone learns differently. I think that the material covered in lessons should be dependent on what the student knows and what the student is interested in. Even though theory can be complicated and at times tedious I think the most important goal is to be able to enjoy both learning and playing your instrument. Weekly goals will be set for students to ensure they study the lesson subjects. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Music Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Over the last 20 years of teaching and playing I am often asked how do I reach the next level in my playing? Here are a few things I talk about as I help students grow as musicians. 1) Play songs you enjoy and have listened to often. While you can learn unfamiliar songs, it's best to work on tunes that are in your mind, not just on the page. 2) Spend time just nuddling on your instrument. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I currently teach voice and theory at Norman Music Institute in Norman, OK. I have been teaching there since March of 2019. I also have been teaching students off and on over the past 7 years. Having been a college student needing to move between states every few years has made it difficult to keep things consistent, but I have certainly seen success in my students in the time I have had with them. 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: 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: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium

I have been teaching in the private setting since the mid-90s, which I began as an undergrad in Music Education. I taught for about a decade in public schools in Kansas, teaching both band and vocal music to students of all ages at various times. I chose to return to school in 2009 and completed two Masters degrees in performance in classical and jazz trumpet over the next four years. Read More