Music Lessons in Portage Bay, WA

Instruments: Cello

My role as a teacher is threefold: to engage, to inspire, and to support. I strive to cultivate a relaxed yet focused lesson environment where students feel safe to express themselves musically and freely. As is often the case with classical music, strict or authoritarian teachers can stifle a student's creativity and passion for music. Every student has different strengths and weaknesses and it is not the role of the teacher to conform the student to their teaching style, but to conform their teaching method to suit the student. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I started violin lessons at age 7, after 2 years of begging my mom! I can still remember that blustery Saturday morning in November when I had my first lesson, and since then, I have learned so much. I joined the studio orchestra after just a year of lessons, then began teacher training and luthier (violin repair) classes in high school. I took a break from teaching while getting my bachelor's degree, but continued while I got my master's. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I am interested in the individual growth of my students. I encourage exploration and learning through experiences, and if my students leave my classes with a little more knowledge and a great deal more wonder, I consider it a success. I like to follow my students down the tracks they are interested in and then choose to broaden the path once we are there. From this place I have written a 12 page chart featuring a Justin Bieber tune, written a Britney Spears song into Swing, put a Miranda Lambert song in five, and arranged an original by The Script in a Latin feel. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Teaching - Piano/keys 4 students. Drum for 2 students (one student was blind).   Performance - accompanying choirs and church (acoustic piano), marching band (trumpet and percussion), worship bands (acoustic drum set and synth), and orchestra (timpani and bells). I taught myself the trumpet and achieved first chair within the first 6 months of playing (our marching band performed in Canada to California besides many places in Washington). Piano solos at Eastern Washington University, Central Washington University and Seattle Pacific University. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion

I believe that the first step towards building proficiency in an instrument is having fun with it. I strive to make the lesson space one that promotes positivity, experimentation and excitement - with these as a foundation we can make the hard parts more enjoyable! I take notes on each lesson and have a plan for the next one in mind. However, I always enjoy following a direction that the student is interested in and can cater lessons to personal goals however ambitious or modest. 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