Music Lessons in Orlinda, TN

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Synthesizer Keyboard

My teaching experience dates back to when I was 16 years old and started teaching students from the church that I played piano at. I've been teaching full time since I was 25 years old, and I love teaching. I believe students progress faster when they are learning to play their favorite songs, and are having fun with learning to play the piano. I also encourage students to learn to improvise and compose their own music by teaching them composition, harmony, rhythm, and practicing to backing tracks. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

I always approach teaching on an individual basis. I find out what the student loves about music, and what made him or her want to learn in the first place. We set realistic goals for pace and have fun. I often mix traditional work with fun work. For example, alongside conventional ways to learn melody and harmony, I'll tie those lessons into specific songs or pieces of music that the student likes, to show the relevance of the material and the importance it has, at the same time keeping the student interested. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Every student is different, but all students need to be motivated and inspired. I try to find the right “buttons” for each individual to help them become excited about learning their instrument. I approach my teaching with enthusiasm, patience and realistic but high expectations. I want my students to feel comfortable and safe and be able to make mistakes without fear or embarrassment. Music is supposed to bring joy, not stress. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Drums

I emphasize the benefits music gifts us in regards to developing the brain as much as possible, while making music fun. No matter the style, the psychological benefits music offers are limitless. Giving the whole musical experience keeps people wanting to play and wanting to better themselves as individuals.Whether you want to learn your favorite pop song or a full Beethoven concerto, to anything inbetween, I will personally write a lesson plan for each individual student. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I like to use piano methods that employ the multi-key and intervallic approach to teaching piano. Alfred's Piano Method nicely blends these two methods. To keep book costs down, the Alfred's All-in-One Piano Method (children's or adult's) is a good choice for beginning students. Alfred's method is also used by many universities and community colleges, so what you learn will nicely carry over to that environment. More advanced students can bring the method and materials they have been working with and we'll go from there. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My approach to teaching music is holistic. I believe there are 3 important components that lead to mastery of the instrument: 1. Technique, 2. Artistry, 3. Comprehension. Technique: Understanding of the body and how it works at the piano. By this, I mean how to play using the weight of the body rather than brute force. Playing the piano does not require strong muscles or physical strength. It requires an intricate and fluid motion that comes from understanding how the hands/arms are connected to the rest of the body, and how they work together to produce sound from the piano. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Djembe

I have a Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction/Music from Tennessee State University. No matter the teaching situation, for the student and teacher, preparation and opportunity to learn are key. All aspects of Instrumental and Commercial Percussion are addressed. From the most fundamental to advanced concepts. I have performed at the Tennessee State Day of Percussion, The National Conference on Percussion Pedagogy, Mompox and Sinu Jazz Festivals, and The Percussive Arts Society International Convention. Read More