Music Lessons in Rockford, MN

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I began teaching in 2003 at my high school during an arts funding crisis that left band students to have sporadic lessons, since we had had an exceptional teacher previously we persevered and excelled in a student-led environment. Luckily by our senior year we had another extraordinary instructor who helped us win first in our district band final, no small feat considering our schools financial hardships and a concert band consisting of only ten students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello

Guitar: For children, I prefer the FJH Young Beginner Guitar method, but for adults I would prefer Hal Leonard if the student is looking to learn both chords and melody using folk music. I could also teach guitar based on gospel and Christian praise music if the student prefers. I have taught students with an interest in rock music, but only to give them the basic foundation skills of chords and notes to build on with another teacher who has more of a rock music speciality. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

THE DOUNIS METHOD - The secret of being a truly great string player is to make the instrument an extension of the body not vice versa. This is accomplished by using your native instincts which are strongest when you are a child, but can be rediscovered later. When all technique is based on these instinctive movements then the expression is released. Your creative potential is unlocked. This kind of playing conveys a natural musical authority because it is completely based on your own musical impulses. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My primary objective in my teaching is to use the multitude of different musical styles within my arsenal to help each of my students find what type of music they are most interested in learning, and to be the best resource I can to help them achieve his/her musical goals. My beginning students generally work out of the Standard of Excellence Book 1, and then graduate to a combination of the Rubank Intermediate/Advanced Methods combined with a mixture of various jazz methods (Jamey Aebersold, Jim Snidero, etc.) as well as a variety of pop/folk/movie theme collections depending on the interests of the individual student. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

My teaching style begins with getting to know the student. I want to learn their musical background, what music they enjoy, and what led them to the instrument that they want to learn. I believe it is important to keep any student engaged in productive practice by tailoring lessons to their personal tastes and goals. Setting achievable and rewarding goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

In the voice studio I am a kind and nurturing teacher - no matter the age or level of the singer. Above all, I strive to instruct healthy, beautiful singing. I absolutely believe in choosing music for a student that will help improve specific areas of vocal technique, but also music about which the student feels passionate. Singing should feel like a release and it should be rewarding. I remember looking forward to voice lessons and getting so excited to watch my voice grow and get better. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have been playing violin and viola for over fifteen years, and over the course of that time I have studied piano and theory as well. My piano background has helped immensely in teaching strings, and I highly recommend piano experience for any musician, though I don't require it. I have been teaching for over three years and have greatly enjoyed sharing my passion with students. A consistent practice schedule and help from parents is essential to the success of any musician, especially young musicians, and I highly encourage this. Read More