Music Lessons in Parkerford, PA

Instruments: Guitar Voice Bass Guitar

At the start of the first lesson, I give each new student a questionniare to fill out that tells me their musical background, influences, goals for the instrument and what music they are interested in learning. If the new student is a younger child, I begin them with Hal Leonard's Guitar Method Book One. Once they have grasped the simple chords and melodies of the book, I begin to introduce simple songs that they are interested in learning. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My philosophy of teaching has always been to customize the student's lessons to match their interests, while ensuring that they receive a extensive foundation that will let them move in any direction they may choose. The methods and materials that I select for my students are always focused on enjoyment as well as efficacy. The goal is to get the student playing musically as soon as possible. While I stress the importance of practicing effectively, I understand that students move at their own pace and tailor the lessons to reflect this. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style consists of setting realistic short term and long term goals for my students. I always make sure my students understand the material I am showing them. I encourage them to challenge themselves to achieve their goals they never thought they could achieve. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

With my bass students, I begin with basic technique and ear training. My first goal for a student is to learn one of their favorite simple folk songs by ear, while also developing basic musical skills and instrumental technique. I believe that it is extremely important to begin developing a students aural abilities and creativity early on. I also will have the student begin to work out of the Simandl bass method book for simple exercises and introduction to reading music. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I teach my students to read music as well as to play by ear. I host 2 recitals each year. We learn one song start to finish and I hire a professional band to learn and perform the songs with my students at a local establishment or at my studio. I encourage all of my students to perform with our recital band. As far as books, I prefer to use the "new Breed", by Gary Chester, the ''Art of Bop Drumming'', by John Riley , and the ''encyclopedia of reading rhythms'', by Garry Hess, but there are many other books I recommend for specific needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

I use the following method books, depending on the age and ability of the student: Alfred, Bastian and John Thompson. For younger students (under eight years old) I usually use the Alfred all in one book.. for older children, I use the Bastian set of four books: piano performance, technic and theory. For adults and teenagers, I use the Alfred all in one adult method book. For gifted students, I use the John Thompson book (the one I learned from). Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My priority as a teacher is to foster creativity, joy, musicality, versatility, originality, and collaboration skills - to help you express and develop your own musical identity through your instrument. Guided by those principles, we will learn by playing the music that inspires you the most. Nothing is more important than loving what you do! We will balance technical rigor with a deep respect for strangeness. Though the lessons will be moulded entirely to your goals, abilities, and stylistic preferences, every curriculum will rely heavily on ear training and listening skills. Read More