Music Lessons in Ruby Hill, CO

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone French Horn

My method varies for every student but I have a very specific plan for each level of experience. Beginners would focus on essential elements books and beginner packets that cover basics and also have rewarding solo pieces. More advanced students would focus on scales and long tones with etudes for fundamentals and repertoire for solo playing and performances. Of course, anyone wanting to focus on jazz or certain styles of playing and older players can decide what they want to do and I will guide them as we go. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Throughout my 20+ years as a music instructor, I have found that a friendly, encouraging approach resonates well with students. I individualize each student's instruction to best serve the goal of positive results through creative music- making. I graduated in 1980 with a Piano Performance degree from Fort Lewis College, Durango, Co., with a minor in music education. My performance experience includes playing for weddings, churches, accompanying other musicians, and playing and singingin jazz and Celtic bands. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I have started teaching private lessons since high school through the Suzuki Method, and into my college and graduate school years.  I have taken classes on pedagogy and teaching artistry in creative ways, such as teaching students to do improvisations and asking questions in order to get them engaged in the learning process.  I have played classical, jazz, pop, and latin music, and can teach an array of different genres. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I like to begin with understanding what the student wants to learn guitar for, whether it’s learning their favorite songs, they have an interest in joining a band, or they simply want to learn guitar for instance. From there I like to gauge the student’s level, and then set goals accordingly. For beginners, I start with fundamental material — instrument acclimation and adjustment, learning chord basics, and some sheet music introduction. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I use a large number of methods. However, the chosen method or path is highly dependent on each students age, experience, musical interests, and allotted time for daily practice and study. Regardless, I suggest implementing a full curriculum encompassing study of repertoire, technique, musicality, theory, and music history for each student. Therefore, I prefer briefly conversing with each student before choosing a distinct program. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo Keyboard

For Beginners, I focus on music theory and the most important steps of caring for your flute. Then we branch into tone, technique, and rhythm. For my intermediate students, we start by using Taffanel and Gaubert Grand Exercises for technique. I also require my students to have Trevor Wye books for tone and technique. These will be a staple in the practice room and throughout your studies with the flute. Read More