Music Lessons in Pinehurst, WA

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Mandolin Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle

I use Samuel Applebaum's String Builderbooks 1 and 2 as my beginning texts and his Scales for Strings, Early Etudes, and First Position Etudes (especially for viola) before moving into First Etudes by Whistler/Hummel for violin and then the Wohlfahrt/Aiquoni Foundation Studies, books 1 and 2, Mazas, and advanced etudes such as Kreutzer and Campagnoli for both violin and viola. Beginners useConcertTunesbooks 1 and 2 by Dale Brubaker for first (immediate) solosthat reinforce note reading and other instruction. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

For younger students who are beginning, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. This book has great materials for setting up the violin and bow hold, reading notes, rhythm and other musical markings, and introducing basic music theory such as time and key signatures. Also, this book incorporates the foundation of all musical learning, scales and arpeggios, into fun exercises that are enjoyable for every student.For older students who have more experience, I have a range of etudes from Sevcik to Kreutzer that can futher develop and solidify a good foundation of technique.For musical training, I use solo repertoire from Suzuki and other sources that are appropriate for each student's level so that he/she can be healthily challenged musically and technically while feeling accomplished during performances. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

Upon meeting a student for the first time I like to hear from them about where their interests lie, what their goals are, and what they already know about their instrument and music in general.  Lessons are custom-tailored based on these facts.  I like attempting to expand on their interests and introduce them to music they may not be aware of but I think they'll love.  My favorite part is when they light up upon hearing something really cool for the first time! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

There is not one method that fits all students and all styles. Young children and beginners on the guitar need to slowly develop strength and control of finger movements, while still being motivated when they learn how to play along with their favorite songs. Intermediate players often need help to get into a smooth flowing groove, to lock in with a rhythm or to phrase melodies. Advanced players might consider a few hints, tricks and exercises to improve their techniques or apply music theory to a deeper understanding of a music piece.-A major component of student success is continuity which I can provide as a teacher with lesson and practice plans. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar

My teaching style is structured primarily on learning to play by ear with light theory instruction.  For advanced and more serious students, I am a huge theory nerd and I really enjoy teaching a more technical approach as well. My philosophy is to improve a student's skills by nurturing each person's specific interest and goals.  I do not find it effective to try and force my own taste in music on my students, although I do make suggestions based on skills a student is trying to acquire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone

For beginning brass players I generally start out with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements series of books. After going through that, with some other material on the side, such as performance pieces, etc, they would progress to the Arban book (at around high school age for the student who began in sixth grade, as I did). For piano, I much prefer starting out with basic fundamentals, but not to any specific method, in contrast to brass. Read More