Music Lessons in Pleasant Ridge, MI

Instruments: Piano

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. By having these realistic goals, students will feel greater accomplishment at what they achieved as I do not want to overwhelm the student with too much material or information. Read More

Instruments: Flute

For beginning students (adult and children) I like to be sure that their knowledge about fundamentals is solid. I believe ear training is paramount. Not everyone can sing, but secure pitch discrimination can help all musicians (even percussionists). I encourage all students to participate in ensembles (band, choral also). Knowledge of phrasing is also important to aspiring musicians. Students need support from listening to others play (live performances, radio,and recordings). Read More

Instruments: Drums

When starting with a beginner student, I typically start by asking general questions about their interests and the music genres they enjoy. Then, we move on to the basics of maintaining proper form, understanding rhythm, and practicing simple exercises to ensure they start off with the right foundation. After that, we focus on learning the first few basic beats and ensuring they have a good understanding of how they are played. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Methods utilized are rooted in finding natural and healthy ways to produce a vocal sound. This stretches to all ages, as voices can and will change throughout one's lifetimes for a number of reasons. By beginning with gentle exercises and warm-ups, we can establish the student's vocal abilities and range, allowing me to create a curriculum around each individual student that ensures that will be creating music in a healthy way. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass French Horn

I have performed all over the globe for communities from San Francisco to New York to Ykaterinburg, Russia. My main instruments are bass, electric bass and French horn and have a background in all forms of improvised music as well as classical and orchestral repoertoire. My experience in the Air Force Band from 2006-2014 reinforced the skills necessary for professional musicianship that I cultivated at several fine music schools. Some famous venues I've played include Avery Fischer Hall, NY, and Shoreline Amphitheater, CA. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola Drums Electric Violin Fiddle Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students I always begin with a methods book, I believe that good fundamentals are what makes a good musician, but I also teach ear training methods thereby giving the student the best in both worlds. Once the fundamentals and foundation are efficient, then according to the instrument I move to solo repertoire or experimentation or interpretation. I believe finding a students passion and making the learning experience as educational and enjoyable as possible. Read More