Music Lessons in Riverside, MO

Instruments: Guitar

I have been teaching music for two years professionally, and much longer than that informally. I played regularly and professionally at venues in Columbia, MO, such as the Bridge and The Vault. I studied trumpet in my high-school band and learned to read music, progressing on my own thereafter into more complex theory and harmony, as well as composition. I have been in several ensembles and have performed as a solo artist on many occasions as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginners of all ages, I typically start with the fundamentals of music theory. For children, once they have grasped this, I will introduce solo repertoire and sight reading appropriate for their skill level. For adults, I try to find out what they are interested in and instruct accordingly. I like to keep practice fun and engaging for all ages and ability levels. Read More

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

If they want to specialize in a certain area I use additional backup materials. I also encouraged my students to be involved in performances and recitals that give them opportunity to utilize their skills. Particularly playing in church is a great outlet for many of my students. I have about 30 years of teaching experience, 20 of which have been full time. I have several endorsements and referrals available if needed. My students' range from hobbyist to career focused. Read More

Instruments: Drums

My teaching experience goes back 12 years ago when I began teaching private lessons from my own private home studio. During my high school days, I also served as a student teacher for local summer band camps as a percussion and drum set instructor. One of the most important things I strive for is to have my students keep a consistent practice schedule and have fun playing the drums so that they can maintain interest in learning more music styles and be prepared for various musical occasions. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Keyboard

My teaching experience started in High School when I would exchange piano lessons for guitar with a musician friend of mine. My formal teaching experience began in Atlanta 5 years ago when I co-taught group keyboard lessons for beginner elementary school students and taught adult beginner voice students through my in-home studio. I took this experience back to my home town of Iowa City where I traveled to teach beginner adult piano and beginner adult voice and taught beginner-early intermediate piano and voice through a local music lessons studio. Read More

Instruments: Voice

My teaching experience began when I was in grad school, where I taught a few students at a local high school. Since moving to the KC area eight years ago, I have been consistently teaching and gradually building my private studio, which now has over 20 students! I love working with young singers (specifically grades 8-12) and helping them find the potential in their voices.  I have encountered the full range of ability levels, from very experienced (had lessons before, sung multiple solos in school choir, had lead roles in musicals, etc.) to complete novice (no lessons, no choir experience).  My overall approach to lessons is the same, regardless of ability level: consistent improvement from week to week using vocal exercises, songs, and an exploration of breath and the physicality of singing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Oboe English Horn

I believe every student is different and therefore demands a different instruction style. Some students need a lot of encouragement and some students need more of a push. I also believe students need musical ideas to be presented to them in different ways. Some students need a visual explanation, some auditory, and some kinesthetic. Through my training to become a music educator at Missouri State University, I gained experience in several different types of students and I am confident I can help a large variety of students. Read More