Music Lessons in Royal Oak, MI

Instruments: Drums

I have three main books I use; these are my drum 'bibles'. Progressive Steps to Syncopation by Ted Reed, Stick Control for the Snare Drummer by George Lawrence, and Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer by Jim Chapin. I like to teach fundamentals first, providing a strong basis with which to expand your repetoire. Then I like to emphasize song work. The best part of drumming in my opinion is playing with other instruments, and in addition to playing with recorded music, I encourage my students to find other musicians to practice and even perform with. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For very young beginning students, I typically start with Faber Piano Adventures, and for older beginners, the Faber Accelerated Piano Adventures or Hal Leonard Adult Learner Series. Once the student has shown an understanding of basic theory and technique, classical repertoire will be introduced, along with level appropriate arrangements of the student's choice music. It's important that the student is taught how to practice a piece effectively to continue growing musically in between lessons, so that lessons can be used to find areas for improvement, and to learn new concepts and material. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

During the first lesson I have the student sing (if it is a vocal lesson) their favorite song so I can hear them. After that i use my keyboard and take the student through some excersizes to really home in on that range. I listen for qualities and we discuss the positives and what improvements are needed. After the first lesson we choose music: a classical art song book and theory book of my choosing, and a songbook of the student's choosing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Music

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part-time 10 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 5 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Music Keyboard

For beginning strings students (even young children) to advanced students, I use the Suzuki method along with the accompanying sight reading book, I Can Read Music. Advanced students who have reached Suzuki book 6 and beyond are invited to seek out other repertoire as a supplement to their Suzuki studies. Students who are involved in an orchestra are also invited to bring excerpts of their music to their lessons so that I can help them to feel confident and prepared at playing tests and auditions. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet Drums Electric Guitar

My name is Gary and teaching and performing music is my life! I have a wonderful family that loans me out for my music. My wife's name is Sandy and she works for a vet and I have three great children. Read More

Instruments: Violin Music

Beginning violin is important. I use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements to help teach the functionality and basic building blocks of playing the violin. Moving forward, the best introduction into violin music itself is the Suzuki Violin School volume set. Each book helps students through various levels during their beginner phase. These pieces not only serve as educational material but also as solo repertoire for beginners in recitals. As students learn these methods, I start to tailor lessons suitable for them, allowing them to choose what they desire to play, or something that they would be eager or excited to play. Read More