Music Lessons in Oak Grove, MO

Instruments: Voice

Teaching music is my calling in life. It has taken me many years to actually say that with full confidence, but when I consider the joy I experience while teaching, and also look at the growth and improvement my students experience throughout their time with me, it is really clear: this is what I love, and this is what I have a unique gifting to do. I have two degrees in music: a Master's in Vocal Performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, and a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Iowa State University. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Flute Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I don't believe in a one size fits all mentality for music education, I've often seen this approach derail students from enjoying the process and eventually terminating their relationship with music overall. Students are a case-by-case basis, and in that regard, each lesson is catered to the students actual goals and interests. I believe in training our ears and our sense of rhythm to a point where the student can figure things out and make artistic decisions on their own and use lessons, less as a tutorial, but as a source of inspiration to pursue the things that brought them here in the first place. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I prefer an individualized, tailored teaching method. Your passion and interest should inspire your learning. I see my job as then taking that passion and working to grow and develop it through specifically designed lessons and practice routines, personalized to you as the student. I strongly believe the most important aspect of learning is fostering a love for your instrument. Utilizing my strong background in theory and performance, I focus on various elements of instrumentation and technique combined with a foundation in theory to produce well-rounded, capable musicians. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Organ Ukulele Recorder Keyboard Djembe

For beginner's, I do typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books. For intermediate, I'll evaluate what materials they've used thus far in their lessons and go from there. If someone is familiar with a set of books in a positive way, there's no reason to change the books they're using. I do believe, however, there is profit in a variety of repertoire, so a diverse lesson is key. I have learned from experience that simply learning one genre (classical, jazz, showtunes) is less desirable than having a familiar ear to multiple styles. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Effective teaching needs to be a give and take between the student and the teacher. I am knowledgeable and experienced in performing jazz, classical, and various pop genres of music, and yet, students bring a fresh perspective to a piano lesson. I like to challenge and excite students in developmentally appropriate ways by giving them a mix of music that they choose and music that I think is necessary for their growth as a musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

The method book I begin younger students on is Piano Adventures by Faber and Faber. There are 5 Level books to complete. We use the lesson book, as well as the technique book. I also supplement with solo repertoire and various materials. For the older beginner, I use Alfred's Basic Adult All-In-One Course, as well as supplemental solo repertoire. Music theory is essential in my studio, and I use various learning tools to teach theory. iPad apps, worksheets, games and manipulatives are a few examples. Read More

Instruments: Cello

During lessons, I typically focus on a balance of instrumental technique and music reading. However, Im flexible and happy to adapt to each student's preferences. If a student prefers to prioritize one skill over the other, I will gladly tailor lessons to match their goals. Additionally, we work on developing and applying effective practice strategies to ensure steady progress. Since every student progresses at different rates and excels in different areas, I adapt my teaching style to meet their unique needs. Read More