Music Lessons in Pepper Pike, OH

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo

Empowering my students is my first priority. They will be able to perform a song from the first lesson. I want them to enjoy learning and look forward to their lesson every week. I want them to feel confident about their musical ability and about themselves. My basic structure is a warm-up, review of previously assigned material, introduction of new material, and finishing the lesson with a student chosen song. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar

For beginning students that are children, I like to start with Hal Leonard’s Essential Elements or any other book that has the basic principles of music in them. Once the student has progressed and has a good grasp of the fundamentals, I will bring in other repertoire appropriate to their level. For adults, I like to find out what the student is interested in and then tailor the lesson toward that to keep lessons engaging and fun no matter what their abilities are. I always try to keep the lessons fun and entertaining. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

For young beginners, I usually start with simple note reading so that they can begin playing tunes right away. When children realize that they can play "Happy Birthday" or "Jingle Bells" after just a couple of lessons, their interest level increases. For older students, I tend to ask "What does playing the guitar look like to you? What do you imagine yourself doing when you ponder it?" This gives me the best idea of what direction we can plan for. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I teach a combination of Rote and verbal, conveying my ideas while playing as an example. I realized my passion for music when I was teaching forty clarinetists during a band camp. They caught on to my personality and knew I wanted the best for them. This ultimately drove them to be better musicians. In a perfect world, I would rather teach the rest of my life without being paid and be able to support myself but unfortunately that is not how the world works. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Music

My teaching style can best be described as adaptable. Every student can learn and every student is different. Some students need structure, some need to be encouraged and some just need someone to help them polish their skills. Whatever the case may be, it is my job to meet the student where they are and provide support that balances what they need and their personal goals. In that balance is the key to finding long term enjoyment, success, and continued musical exploration. Read More

Instruments: Voice

My approach to lessons differs significantly from student to student. After initial skills and/or vocal health assessments, I choose repertoire and books for them based upon their abilities, age, and musical interests. While I think that vocalises and technical exercises are important to the learning process, I believe it is essential for students to be singing and playing music that they are passionate about at all times. In this way, they can learn to love the process of improving. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

My teaching experience began with arranging and instructing drum line parts for a youth drum corps. After having children of my own, I realized I had a knack for working with children. I began teaching piano and percussion part-time 8 years ago as a way to share my passion for music. Nurturing an appreciation for composing and performing music, regardless of style or genre, is what my goal is with every student. Read More